Next month, the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau will recognize one business, one event and four individuals for contributions to the area's travel and tourism industry.
The CVB's Salute to Travel & Tourism awards are scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Ramada Oasis Convention Center, according to the CVB.
University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center has been selected to receive the Hospitality Award, given to an attraction, lodging facility or restaurant that provides above-average hospitality for visitors to the city.
"I have an amazing team; this is the first year we have won this and everyone at the hotel made it possible," University Plaza General Manager Robert Henley said in an email.
The CVB will present the Ambassador Award to the Missouri Dairy Forum, recognizing the trade show for generating an economic impact in the area by securing a convention in Springfield.
The Spotlight Award will be presented to Leah Hamilton, executive director of the Springfield Regional Arts Council. According to the CVB, the award recognizes an individual who wouldn't typically be labeled as part of the travel and tourism industry but has contributed to its advancement in the Springfield area.
Missouri Reps. Sara Lampe and Lincoln Hough will be given the Diplomat Award, presented by the CVB to a government official who has aided the Springfield-area travel industry.
Announced the night of the banquet, the Pinnacle Award will be given to an individual who has several years of activity in the travel and tourism industry and has made contributions to its betterment, according to the CVB.
Last year, the award was presented to Dan Kinney, retired director of the Springfield-Greene County Parks Department.[[In-content Ad]]
