For the City Times

MADISON – Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary-designee Sara Meaney presented five recipients with Governor’s Tourism Awards for their contributions to the state’s hospitality and travel industry during a virtual presentation. Among those honored was Cameryn Kwaterski of Visit Rome, WI, Inc.

The department originally intended to present the awards at their 2019 Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

“I wish we could have been together in person to celebrate the tourism leaders that helped make 2019 Wisconsin’s tourism economy’s best year on record. Unfortunately, life had other plans for our leadership,” said Meaney. “Wisconsin is lucky to have a top-notch group of industry professionals promoting our industry.”

Tourism had a $22.2 billion impact on the state’s economy in 2019 and supported more than 202,000 jobs. Every $1 the Department of Tourism invested in tourism promotion drove $95 in visitor spending in communities throughout Wisconsin.

Sponsored by the Governor’s Council on Tourism, the Governor’s Tourism Awards recognize individuals, organizations and businesses for their excellence, dedication and impact on Wisconsin’s travel and hospitality industry.

Kwaterski was recognized with the Rising Star Award. She is the first executive director of Visit Rome, WI, Inc., which was incorporated in 2018.

“She immediately put her passion for the area to work in establishing the non-profit, creating its brand, and implementing organizational structure and financial management,” a Wisconsin Department of Tourism release stated. “Under her leadership, Visit Rome was awarded a Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. She also created new print and online media for the organization and established events such as a fundraising concert series and Taste of Rome. Her contagious enthusiasm for tourism makes a big impact in Rome and beyond.”

Other recipients include: Legacy Award – Deb Archer, Destination Madison; Stewardship Award – Village of Egg Harbor; Service Excellence Award – Heart of Canal Street, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino; and Arts, Culture and Heritage – Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel.

More information about the Governor’s Tourism Awards, visit https://wigcot.eventsair.com/gta.