Hello, Industry Friends!
Each year at the annual South Dakota Governor’s Conference on Tourism, awards are presented to outstanding members or organizations that have contributed to the state’s tourism industry. Five of the awards are based on peer nominations. If you know of an individual or business worthy of consideration, submit one (or more) of the forms below. The awards will be presented Thursday evening, January 23, 2025 during the Governor’s Conference on Tourism Awards Night Gala.
GOVERNOR’S TOURISM RISING STAR AWARD
The Governor’s Tourism Rising Star Award recognizes an individual who has been working in the South Dakota tourism industry for two to four years, excels at their job, is passionate about the industry’s growth & importance, is engaged at the local and state levels, and will make a positive difference to our industry’s future.
SUBMIT A RISING STAR NOMINATION >>
BEN BLACK ELK AWARD
The Ben Black Elk Award recognizes an individual who has made tireless and outstanding contributions to the state’s tourism industry. Read more about Ben Black Elk and the history of the award at SDVisit.com.
SUBMIT A BLACK ELK NOMINATION >>
A.H. PANKOW AWARD
The A.H. Pankow Award recognizes a member of the media or public relations industry who has provided exceptional coverage of South Dakota.
SUBMIT A PANKOW NOMINATION >>
PETER NORBECK EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM INNOVATION AWARD
The Peter Norbeck Excellence in Tourism Innovation Award is given to a member of the South Dakota tourism industry for innovative marketing or new additions/improvements to their community, business or attraction that elevate the visitor’s experience.
SUBMIT A NORBECK NOMINATION >>
RUTH ZIOLKOWSKI OUTSTANDING HOSPITALITY & CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD
The Ruth Ziolkowski Outstanding Hospitality & Customer Service Award recognizes members of the South Dakota tourism industry who, like Ruth Ziolkowski, provide remarkable service to every visitor they encounter. They are on the frontline and demonstrate an outstanding spirit of hospitality, warmth and genuine kindness. One award is presented to a recipient from each of the four tourism regions. (These nominations will be distributed to the four regional associations.)
SUBMIT A ZIOLKOWSKI NOMINATION >>
