Northwest Tennessee Tourism Leaders Shine At The Stars Of The Industry Awards

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Northwest Tennessee has proudly announced the success of three regional leaders who were recently honored at the prestigious Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association’s Stars of the Industry Awards. This event, which took place on September 18 during the annual Governor’s Conference on Hospitality & Tourism, is a hallmark of recognition for individuals who have displayed exceptional service, leadership, and dedication within Tennessee’s hospitality and tourism sectors.

This year, three exceptional professionals from Northwest Tennessee took home top honors in their respective categories, making it clear that the region continues to be a standout in the state’s tourism landscape.

Three individuals from the Northwest Tennessee region were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the state’s tourism industry. Each honoree demonstrated a commitment to quality service, a passion for their work, and a deep sense of responsibility to the guests they serve. The following are the distinguished winners:

The recognition of these three award winners comes on the heels of their nominations earlier this year at the Cornerstone Tourism Awards hosted by Northwest Tennessee Tourism. These nominations served as the first spotlight for their achievements, and their success at the state level underscores the excellence and quality that the region’s tourism sector consistently offers.

As the CEO of Discovery Park of America in Union City, Scott Williams has proven to be a visionary leader in the tourism industry. Under his leadership, the park has seen record-breaking attendance, with an increasing number of visitors flocking to the site for its cultural, historical, and educational experiences. Discovery Park of America has not only become one of the most sought-after destinations in Tennessee, but it has also established itself as a center of learning and community engagement.

In addition to his efforts in boosting visitation, Williams has also overseen the expansion of Discovery Park’s educational programming, enriching the experiences of both local visitors and those traveling from out of state. The commitment to excellence in guest services and the creation of immersive, engaging experiences has positioned the park as a key player in Tennessee’s tourism economy, earning Williams the well-deserved title of Tourism General Manager of the Year (Large).

In the world of local dining and hospitality, Alan Laderman is a name synonymous with quality, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit. As the owner of three highly regarded restaurants in the region – Sammies, The Grind Mac & Cheese Burger Bar, and Woodfire Pizza Kitchen – Laderman has brought a unique flavor to the Northwest Tennessee dining scene. His restaurants are known not only for their high-quality food but also for the warm, welcoming atmosphere they provide, which keeps customers coming back.

Each of Laderman’s establishments has gained a loyal following among both locals and visitors, and his success as an independent restaurant owner reflects his commitment to excellence in every aspect of his business. As a result, he was honored with the title of Restaurant General Manager of the Year (Independent), a fitting recognition for someone who has made such a significant impact on the region’s tourism and dining culture.

At Southland Safari in Yuma, Michael Avery serves as a tour guide who has not only shared his passion for wildlife but has also played a crucial role in helping visitors forge personal connections with nature. Through his engaging tours and insightful commentary, Avery has brought the wonders of the natural world to life for countless guests, all while highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.

What sets Avery apart is his ability to connect with visitors, making each tour feel personal and memorable. His dedication to providing an exceptional experience has helped elevate Southland Safari as a top attraction in the region, earning him the coveted title of Tourism Employee of the Year (Small Budget). His recognition speaks volumes about the value of passionate individuals who work tirelessly to enhance the experiences of those who visit Northwest Tennessee.

The recognition of these three individuals at the Stars of the Industry Awards highlights the growing importance of Northwest Tennessee in the broader landscape of Tennessee tourism. Their success is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the region’s collective commitment to providing visitors with high-quality experiences that showcase the unique culture, hospitality, and attractions of the area.

The Stars of the Industry Awards serve as a celebration of the individuals behind the scenes who contribute to the success of Tennessee’s tourism industry. These awards recognize not only the economic impact of tourism but also the dedication and hard work of the people who shape the visitor experience in the state. With three winners from Northwest Tennessee, it is clear that the region plays an essential role in fostering the growth of Tennessee’s tourism economy.

The Northwest Tennessee Tourism Association works tirelessly to promote the nine-county region, which includes Benton, Carroll, Crockett, Dyer, Gibson, Henry, Lake, Obion, and Weakley counties. Through targeted marketing, collaborative events, and advocacy, the association helps to drive economic growth while also ensuring that the region’s unique attractions, events, and experiences reach both local and out-of-state visitors. The dedication to promoting Northwest Tennessee helps position the region as a key player in Tennessee’s broader tourism industry.