October 9, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Danielle Morgan
Mississippi Tourism Association
(601) 720-2245
[email protected]
Jackson, Miss. – The Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) recognized the impact and accomplishments of the state’s tourism industry at the annual tourism awards program held during Governor’s Conference on Tourism at the MSU Riley Center in Meridian, Mississippi, October 4-6, 2023. This annual educational and professional development event brought together around 200 tourism industry professionals from across the state as well as tourism partners from the surrounding region.
“Mississippi’s tourism industry is thriving,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “Every day more and more people are falling in love with our state – and it’s easy to see why. There’s a beauty to Mississippi that is uniquely inspiring, and it’s hard to find nicer people than Mississippians. Thank you to the Mississippi Tourism Association for telling Mississippi’s story, and congratulations to all of the award winners!”
These awards give MTA the opportunity to recognize members who excel in various sectors of the industry. Awards were presented in 18 categories, each focusing on a different aspect of the hospitality industry or individual achievement.
This year’s recipient of the Venue of the Year award was given to Sheraton Flowood The Refuge Hotel & Conference Center.
“It is such a pleasure to have the opportunity to celebrate these talented members who work tirelessly for their communities and organizations. These awards are very competitive and that is a testament to the caliber of work being produced by our partners and the overall strength of Mississippi tourism. It is our honor to work together with these outstanding professionals to continue to grow and prosper our industry,” said MTA Executive Director, Danielle Morgan.
Sheraton Flowood The Refuge Hotel & Conference Center opened its doors in May of 2021. The resort combines a luxury 200 room Sheraton hotel, a 25,000 square foot conference center next to a 15-acre lake with walking trails, The Refuge Golf Course, Timeless Medical Aesthetics at The Refuge Spa, and The Chamber of Flowood & Visitor Center. Collectively, all of these features advance tourism for the state of Mississippi.
The Sheraton Flowood is the only Sheraton brand in the state of Mississippi. The luxury hotel features stylish guest rooms with sleek décor, high-tech amenities, and ergonomic workspaces.
Guests can network and grab lunch at Twin’s Lobby Bar & Café, lounge at the lazy river and swim-up bar, enjoy fine dining at Rebecca’s restaurant, and soak up the scenery of the Jackson skyline from the Missy Sippi Rooftop Bar.
Rated the number one Sheraton in the world just six months into operation, this refuge located so close to the capital city is the perfect venue of the year.
“The Mississippi tourism industry thrives with dedicated individuals who share a heartfelt commitment to enhancing their communities and our state as desirable destinations to visit, reside, and thrive. We commend their exceptional contributions to our state’s fourth-largest industry and appreciate their unwavering support for the Mississippi Tourism Association’s mission, which unites the entire tourism sector through advocacy, education, and promotion. We extend our warmest congratulations to all our award recipients for their remarkable achievements and offer our best wishes for their ongoing success,” said Christy Burns, 2023-2024 president of MTA.
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The voice of tourism, the Mississippi Tourism Association is a membership organization whose mission is to unite all sectors of the tourism industry through advocacy, promotion and education. MTA’s vision is to transform Mississippi’s economy through increased visitor spending and overall travel industry growth. For more than 30 years, MTA has led the Mississippi’s tourism education and advocacy efforts. Membership and organization details can be found at www.mstourism.com