2021 Kris Watkins Tourism Champion of the Year, Excellence in Service Awards

Kathy Nutt

Visit Tri-Cities recognized the Tri-Cities tourism and hospitality workforce, from baristas to front desk agents to servers and beyond, as the 2021 Kris Watkins Tourism Champions of the Year during Visit Tri-Cities Annual Meeting: Champions of Tourism Recovery held virtually Nov. 4.

The Kris Watkins Tourism Champion of the Year award is the organization’s most prestigious honor and recipients are carefully chosen based on their dedication to the tourism industry and supporting the efforts of Visit Tri-Cities to continually elevate the region as a premier tourism destination.

“The Tri-Cities is a vibrant destination because of our region’s talented hospitality and tourism employees,” said Michael Novakovich, President & CEO of Visit Tri-Cities. “Tourism was one of the most severely impacted industries over the last 20 or so months and yet we continue to persevere. As travel and tourism continues to return, much of the credit goes to these employees who have worked tirelessly to ensure our industry flourishes. We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of the Kris Watkins Tourism Champion of the Year Award than all of the resilient employees who make visiting the Tri-Cities an incredible experience.”

Visit Tri-Cities also announced the 2021 Excellence in Service award during the program. Kathy Nutt of Frichette Winery was recognized for providing outstanding customer service. She was one of 37 nominees who were recognized by the community for exceptional hospitality. Nominees were judged on following criteria: the ability to serve as an example to others, provide exemplary customer service and create a memorable visitor experience. Kathy is a standout amongst her peers and is well deserving of Visit Tri-Cities’ 2021 Excellence in Service award.

The 2021 Visit Tri-Cities Annual Meeting: Champions of Tourism Recovery may be viewed on Visit Tri-Cities’ YouTube Channel. For more information about Visit Tri-Cities, check out visittri-cities.com. 

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