2023 Tourism Awards Nominees & Winners
Thurston County's tourism industry can only be as successful as the people working behind the scenes planning the events, running the businesses, marketing the area, and of course, making all guests feel welcome and at home here.
Winner's names are listed in bold text.
BOLDNESS IN TOURISM AWARD
This individual brought bold, new ideas and innovative ways of attracting visitors to Thurston County in the past 12 months. They took risks and thought "out of the box", and the result is growing enthusiasm about visiting the iconic destinations in Thurston County.
Alicia Elliott, West Central Park Neighborhood Center
Wayne Fournier, City of Tenino Mayor
Christen Greene, Team Tomorrow
Mitch Lewis, Summit Farms
Ryan Perkins, Oly Town Artesians Soccer Club / Olympia Ballroom
Janine Phillips, Hampton Inn & Suites
Donna Taylor Mayo, Tenino Arts
EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY AWARD
This individual is a frontline worker who put in the hours during the past 12 months, made all guests feel welcome, and typified the attributes of a gracious and knowledgeable host. The result of their efforts creates a visitor who is eager to return and visit Thurston County.
Jamie Brayshaw, Octapas Café
Emily Dunn, The Marie Bed & Breakfast
Wayne Fournier, City of Tenino Mayor
Christen Greene, Team Tomorrow
Sofie Landis, Sofie’s Scoops
Jay Potter, Hands On Children's Museum
Mark Sand, Ashley Creek Farm
Matt Trotter, Well 80
PATRICK KNUTSON TOURISM LEGEND AWARD
The Patrick Knutson Tourism Legend Award honors an individual who has served in the hospitality industry for 10+ years and either currently resides in or has roots in Thurston County. The award winner exemplified the characteristics of leadership, innovation and stewardship in hospitality over his or her lifetime.
Patty Belmonte, Hands On Children's Museum
Christen Greene, Team Tomorrow
Andy Moreno, Capcity Presents
Carol Riley, Olympia Harbor Days Festival
George Sharp, Thurston EDC
Christian Skillings, Cynara and Iron Rabbit
