GoRockford is now accepting nominations for its annual Hospitality Hero Awards, which recognize outstanding individuals in the area’s hospitality industry who go above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service. These awards are presented as part of National Travel & Tourism Week, taking place May 4–10, 2025. This is the third year GoRockford will present awards to local hospitality workers.
Nominations are open from March 12 to April 27, and can be submitted online at gorockford.com/hospitality-heroes. Nominations should be for individuals who have made a significant impact on the travel and tourism experience in Rockford and Winnebago County and must include a description of why they should be selected. Examples include a hotel staff member who creates a welcoming stay for guests, a server who provides outstanding service, or a bartender who makes visitors feel at home. An individual will be selected from each of the five categories.
Award categories include:
- Entertainment/Sports Venue
- Attraction
- Hotel
- Food and Beverage
- Retail
All nominees must work in the hospitality industry within Winnebago County. Winners will be announced throughout National Travel & Tourism Week via GoRockford’s social media channels. Recipients will receive a gift card, award plaque and a Rockford-themed basket as a token of appreciation for their service.
“We are excited to once again recognize the hospitality professionals who make the Rockford region a welcoming destination,” said John Groh, GoRockford president/CEO. “These individuals play a vital role to the tourism industry, helping visitors have an excellent experience in our community and prompting them to want to return.”
Past Winners
2024 Hospitality Hero Award Winners
- Tina Sumner, Holiday Inn Express
- Gina Brown, Discovery Center Museum
- Milton Phillips, UW Health Sports Factory
- Donna Johnson, Savor/ASM
- Karla Graham, The Office Niteclub
2023 Hospitality Hero Award Winners
- Catalina Moreno, Embassy Suites
- Shuntae Chance, Staybridge Suites
- Xavier Lewis, Northern Illinois University Rockford
- Becky Starks, Mercyhealth Sportscore Complexes
About National Travel & Tourism Week
Established in 1983, National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition that celebrates the U.S. travel community and highlights the industry’s essential role in economic growth, community development, job creation, and enhancing the quality of life for Americans.
About: GoRockford is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, GoRockford strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities. www.gorockford.com
