BROOKINGS — Visit Brookings recognized four outstanding individuals and organizations with annual tourism awards during National Travel and Tourism Week. This week-long celebration, held May …
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BROOKINGS — Visit Brookings recognized four outstanding individuals and organizations with annual tourism awards during National Travel and Tourism Week. This week-long celebration, held May 4-10, highlights the impact of the visitor industry in Brookings and across the state.
Shari Budahl Avery was presented with the Larson Family Tourism Champion Award. This award honors individuals who work tirelessly to promote and support tourism. As co-chair of the Brookings Summer Arts Festival, she has helped build one of South Dakota’s premier cultural events. Her leadership across multiple committees has brought in more than 240 artists and vendors along with tens of thousands of visitors each year, strengthening the local economy and creating opportunities to bring people together.
Mandy Lyons, play and learning facilitator at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, received the Hospitality Hero Award for her outstanding service and dedication to making every guest feel welcome. Known for her energy and warmth, Lyons recently received her Brookings Tourism Ambassador credential. As a tourism professional, she helps families feel at home and goes above and beyond to connect with kids and adults alike.
Downtown Brookings, led by Executive Director Kirsten Gjesdal, received the Tourism Extra Mile Award which recognizes major contributions in generating tourism for the community. From launching Third Thursdays to supporting local businesses, public art and community traditions, Downtown Brookings brings people together and enhances the visitor experience. The organization plays a key role in driving tourism and fostering connections through its work in celebrating community and business milestones, organizing seasonal events and serving as a resource during challenging times.
The Tourism Facility of the Year Award was presented to the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, led by the Larson Family Endowed Director, Christina Castillo. The Oscar was recognized for its role in enhancing Brookings as a regional arts and culture destination. Since opening, The Oscar has served as a vital resource for arts and entertainment, welcoming events like Prairie Repertory Theater, SDSU productions, the State One-Act Play Festival, Miss South Dakota Competition and the Governor’s Ag Summit.
In addition to the award presentations, Visit Brookings connected with more than 200 frontline employees who work directly in the visitor industry during National Travel and Tourism Week. The award recipients, in addition to the frontline staff, are key contributors to the $127.1 million visitor industry in Brookings.