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Pulaski County Tourism Bureau Wins 2024 Marketing Campaign Award
Pulaski County Tourism Bureau Wins 2024 Marketing Campaign Award
Kansas City - During the 2024 Missouri Governor’s Conference on Tourism, the Pulaski County Tourism Bureau was honored with the 2024 Marketing Campaign Award for its successful integrated marketing campaign, which led to increased tourism and economic benefits for the region.
The Pulaski County Tourism Bureau was recognized for employing innovative marketing strategies and reaching out to promising new markets. This approach allowed them to promote their destination to a much wider audience. The campaign highlighted the county's scenic river ways, shopping, dining, history, events, and its connection to Route 66, in anticipation of the iconic highway's centennial anniversary in 2026. As a result, the bureau experienced significant increases across all key metrics.
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Executive Director Beth Wiles stated, “It is exciting to market Pulaski County, Missouri, and its communities as a destination of choice when planning their next vacation or group experience. I want to thank our dedicated board members for their support over the years, my staff for their passion and drive, and McDaniels Marketing for their commitment to showcasing Pulaski County, Missouri."
Additional award winners include:
Hall of Fame Award: Presented to an individual who has worked in the tourism industry for a minimum of 10 years and whose contributions have significantly and measurably impacted tourism in Missouri.
Recipient: Diane Gillespie, executive director of Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). Gillespie was recognized for her extensive experience in the tourism industry, which began in Springfield, Missouri, before she moved to the Jefferson City area. Under her direction, the CVB has successfully organized many impactful projects, such as Jefferson City’s 2017 solar eclipse event that drew thousands to the downtown area and was attended by NASA.
Marketing Campaign Award: Recognizes an effective integrated marketing campaign that results in increased tourism and economic benefit to a region. Recipients: Visit KC and Pulaski County Tourism Bureau.
Recipient: Visit KC. Kansas City captured the world’s attention in 2023 when the Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl, hosted the NFL draft, world-famous superstars added the city to their tours, and construction began on the first stadium in the world dedicated to a women’s professional sports team. Visit KC used this attention to inspire travelers to come to the city to experience world-class attractions, restaurants and more through their highly successful “From the Heart” campaign.
Pathfinder Award: Recognizes an event or organization that successfully develops a niche tourism market.
Recipient: Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest. Over the last 18 years, this event has grown to become one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the Midwest. Visitors drive from across the country to attend this massive event. By implementing passport programs, creative marketing efforts and partnering with national brands, Bikefest has continued to grow year after year.
Navigator Media Award: Presented to a media outlet that promotes tourism in Missouri and its importance to the state's economy.
Recipient: Kaitlyn McConnell, founder of Ozarks Alive. McConnell describes Ozarks Alive as a cultural preservation project that started in 2015. Through this outlet, she documents the stories of the people, places and way of life in the Ozarks in order to give readers a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the region. In 2023, McConnell played a role in showcasing the Ozarks at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington D.C.
Rising Star Award: Honors an individual who has worked for a tourism-related organization less than five years or who has transitioned to a new role and made significant advancements to the organization's efforts.
Recipient: Alexandra Bobbitt, communications and film manager for Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau. Within three years, Bobbitt has undertaken efforts to shine a spotlight on Jefferson City through engaging, professional videos. Her ability to keep up with the marketing landscape’s shift to video content has enabled her to promote local businesses and attractions to a wide audience, establishing Jefferson City as a “must-see” destination.
Tracy Kimberlin Hospitality Award: Recognizes an individual, business or organization that has demonstrated excellent customer service.
Recipient: Joseph Gidman, owner of Van Gogh’s Eeterie, Café Cusco, and Chabom Tea & Spices. Through his unique businesses, Gidman has helped transform Springfield’s Commercial Street into a tourist destination. Each of his businesses strives to provide phenomenal customer service and create a special atmosphere where guests can dine, shop and enjoy their visit.
Spirit of Missouri Award: Presented to an individual who does not represent a destination marketing organization, but embodies the spirit, hospitality and enthusiasm that makes them a true Missouri spokesperson.
Recipient: Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Kendrick became involved with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in 2006 and has used his passion for the subject to share the museum’s and Missouri’s story with people from all across the country.
Sen. Emory Melton Legislative Award: Honors an individual who recognizes the value of tourism to the state and works through the legislative process to support Missouri's tourism industry.
Recipient: Richard Brown, state representative for District 27. Representative Brown serves on the Missouri Division of Tourism Commission and is a vocal supporter of the state’s tourism industry. During his tenure in the state legislature, he has made it a point to share the importance of tourism with his fellow legislators.
“Missouri’s tourism industry is driven by passionate, dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to showcase the unique beauty, culture and attractions that make the state a top destination for travelers,” said Stephen Foutes, Missouri Division of Tourism director. “All of our partners – from the destination marketing organizations to local businesses – bring creativity and enthusiasm to every aspect of their work. It’s an honor to recognize them for their efforts through the Missouri Governor’s Conference on Tourism awards.”
In addition to the awards presentation, the conference featured education workshops and guest speakers who addressed a variety of topics related to the tourism industry.