Kara D. Dense, executive director of the Greenbrier County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) announced the CVB received three of 14 total Shining Example Awards selected annually by the 12-state Southeast Tourism Society (STS) at the association’s inaugural Connections conference in April at Myrtle Beach. The Shining Example Awards highlight the best work in the travel and tourism industry and nominations are open to STS members and non-members.  West Virginia was one of the top awarded states at the conference, with all three given to Greenbrier County.
The Greenbrier County CVB was recognized as the Tourism Office of the Year for destination marketing offices with budgets of up to $2 million. This is the second time the Greenbrier County CVB has been recognized with this honor, previously receiving the award in 2006.
The Partnership Award, which recognizes effective tourism partnerships within the industry, was presented to the CVB for its efforts in coordinating the Greenbrier Valley Tourism Recovery Partnership.
“For STS to acknowledge our work, not only as Tourism Office of the Year, but also for the coveted Partnership award is a tremendous honor for the hospitality and tourism industry in Greenbrier County,” said Dense, executive director, Greenbrier County CVB. “We know the power of our local partnerships combined with the resources we have available at the state level, gave Greenbrier County the edge as we faced our greatest challenge.”
Kelly Collins, CEO of the State Fair of West Virginia, received the Rising Star Award, given to someone with fewer than five years in the tourism industry. Collins was recognized for driving tourism to the region by expanding the fairground to a year-round venue. This included the addition of more full hookup campsites which has secured several national and international RV rallies. The fairgrounds has also become home to several smaller events such as the West Virginia Craft Brew Festival.
To celebrate these achievements and the partners’ that make this region a premier tourism destination, the CVB will host, Travel & Tourism Take Center Stage, from 5 to 7 p.m., May 10, at the Greenbrier Valley Visitors Center. The CVB will also announce the Greenbrier County Tourism Partner of the Year. This honor will go to one business for its outstanding commitment to the tourism industry in the Greenbrier Valley.
The evening will include music by the Longshots, heavy hors-d’oeuvres by Blue Ribbon Catering Company and signature desserts by The Greenbrier.
