Convention Bureau Presents Awards

Susan Short of the Virginia Tech Higher Ed Center presents the Tourism Excellence Award to John Dudley

The Roanoke Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau (RVCVB celebrated its 25th anniversary this week and presented awards to those promoting tourism. They included:

The 2010 Tourism Ambassador Award was presented to Kevin Costello, who changed the perception of Botetourt County as a tourism destination. His direction and leadership resulted in the award-winning “Start Exploring” marketing campaign that perfectly captures the beauty, history and charm of Botetourt County. He partnered with the three local family-run wineries to form the Wine Trail of Botetourt County and secured funding for a Web site, brochure and promotional video. His most recent and most ambitious tourism initiative produced under his leadership is the Upper James River Water Trail. The blueway’s recently released website and associated promotional material is receiving rave reviews from state and local tourism officials as it creatively touts one of Botetourt County’s most treasured natural resources, the James River.

Golden Star Award, presented to Franklin County for its contribution to the growth and development of the tourism industry in the Roanoke Valley and the economic benefits derived as a result. Franklin County is a leader in luring outdoor enthusiasts to the region and realizing the potential return on investment. Franklin County has shown tremendous commitment in developing and supporting the many unique partnership opportunities including the Wilderness Road, Fish Virginia First, the Crooked Road and the Blueways trail. The award was accepted by Debra Weir, Tourism & Projects Manager, with Franklin County Commerce & Leisure Services.

Presidents’ Tourism Excellence Award went to John Dudley, general manager with Residence Inn and President of the Roanoke Valley Hospitality Association. The award is for leadership, service and commitment to the tourism industry in the Roanoke Valley. Dudley was a founding member of the Roanoke Valley Hospitality Association.