Awards- Nomination submissions are now closed

Check back for 2026 submission link in Spring 2026.

Celebrating excellence in hospitality, leadership, and innovation, these awards honor Vermonters making a significant impact in tourism and hospitality. Learn about the criteria, nominees, and the inspirational achievements of industry leaders driving Vermont’s tourism forward. Join us in acknowledging the outstanding contributions to culinary arts, sustainable practices, community engagement, and the future of tourism in Vermont. Explore now to see how these awards spotlight the commitment, creativity, and leadership shaping Vermont as a premier destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Selection Process: Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of representatives from the tourism and hospitality industries and related stakeholders.

Timeline: Please note that these dates are a reflection of the 2025 Summit and are for reference only. 

• Submissions Open: Tuesday, March 18
• Submissions Close: Thursday, April 10
• Award Presentation: At the Vermont Tourism Summit (April 28-29, 2025)

Questions: 
If you have any questions about the awards, please email Karen at [email protected]. 

Vermont Hospitality Excellence Award

This award honors Vermonters who exemplify exceptional service and excellence in hospitality and/or culinary arts in Vermont. The award celebrates innovation, quality, and leadership, highlighting the recipient’s dedication to excellence in customer service, culinary innovation, sustainability, and community involvement.

Criteria: Nominees are encouraged to demonstrate achievements in one or more of the following areas:
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• Innovative Service: Demonstrates outstanding and innovative guest services in lodging, dining, or both, setting high standards for the guest experience.
• Culinary Excellence: Showcases exceptional culinary skills, creativity, and a commitment to quality dining experiences, including the use of local ingredients and promoting Vermont’s culinary culture.
• Sustainability Practices: Implements sustainable practices in operations, contributing to environmental stewardship and promoting eco-friendly tourism experiences.
• Leadership and Vision: Exhibits leadership within the industry, inspiring others through a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement.

Eligibility: Open to individuals, teams, and businesses within Vermont’s tourism and hospitality sectors, including but not limited to innkeepers, restaurateurs, chefs, and culinary teams, who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence across hospitality and/or culinary arts. A commitment to welcoming people of all backgrounds and identities is highly regarded.

​Vermont Tourism Leadership Award

This award is designed to honor the outstanding achievements of a Vermonter who has significantly contributed to the promotion and enhancement of tourism in Vermont. Recognizing leaders who have not only elevated the state as a premier destination but have also leveraged tourism to benefit local communities.

Criteria: Nominees are encouraged to demonstrate achievements and excellence in one or more of the following areas:
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• ​Marketing Excellence: Demonstrated success in innovative marketing strategies that effectively attract visitors to Vermont, enhancing the state’s visibility and appeal as a tourist destination.
• Development of Tourist Attractions: Creation or significant improvement of tourist attractions that offer unique and memorable experiences to visitors, contributing to Vermont’s tourism diversity.
• Policy and Advocacy: Active involvement in developing and advocating for policies that support the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry, ensuring a positive impact on Vermont’s economy and environment.
• Enhancing Visitor Experiences: Initiatives that significantly improve the visitor experience, ensuring guests leave with a lasting positive impression of Vermont.
• Community Impact: Contributions to local community development through tourism-related initiatives, including job creation, supporting local businesses, cultural preservation, and community projects that utilize tourism as a force for positive economic and social change.
• Crisis Management and Resilience: Leadership in guiding the tourism sector through challenges or crises, demonstrating adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to the continued success and sustainability of tourism in Vermont.

Eligibility: Open to individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies operating within Vermont’s tourism and hospitality industry. Nominees should have a proven track record of innovation, leadership, and community engagement. A commitment to sustainable practices and welcoming people of all backgrounds and identities is highly regarded.

​Emerging Tourism and Hospitality Leaders

This award celebrates the bright, innovative minds that represent the future of Vermont’s tourism and hospitality industries. It is designed to elevate the achievements of new and emerging leaders, young professionals, and those who are early in their careers but have already made significant contributions. The recognition is for Vermonters who bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a forward-thinking approach to challenges and opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The award aims to motivate and encourage the continued growth and development of emerging talent, ensuring the vitality and sustainability of Vermont’s tourism and hospitality industry for years to come.
The Emerging Tourism and Hospitality Leaders Award is a catalyst for continued growth, offering encouragement and visibility to those who are poised to become the next generation of leaders in Vermont’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors.

Criteria: Nominees for the Emerging Tourism and Hospitality Leaders Award will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
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• ​Innovation and Creativity: Demonstrated ability to introduce innovative ideas, services, or practices, showcasing creativity and a fresh perspective.
• Leadership and Initiative: Evidence of leadership qualities and the initiative to lead projects, teams, or efforts that have a positive impact.
• Contribution to Industry Growth: Contributions that have led to the growth or enhancement of the tourism and hospitality industry, including efforts that improve visitor experiences, sustainability practices, or community engagement.
• Professional Development and Learning: Commitment to professional growth and continuous learning, including participation in industry-related training, workshops, or networking.
• Community and Industry Engagement: Active involvement in community initiatives or industry associations, demonstrating a commitment to the broader success of Vermont’s tourism and hospitality sector.

All nominees meeting the criteria outlined above will be featured in a rotating presentation during the Vermont Tourism Summit and will receive a special acknowledgment.

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Past Honorees

Learn about our 2025 honorees!