2021 Tourism Awards Nominees & Winners
Thurston County's tourism industry can only be as successful as the people working behind the scenes planning the events, running the businesses, marketing the area, and of course, making all guests feel welcome and at home here.
Winner's names are listed in bold text.
Community Unity
The Community Unity Award is for those who live out their belief in collaboration and regionalism, working to bring the communities of Thurston County together in the name of tourism.
Dannielle Knutson, Owner & Operator, Olympia Oyster House, Budd Bay Cafe, River's Edge Restaurants
George Sharp, Rural Program Manager, Thurston Economic Development Council
Thurston Strong Economic Recovery Initiative
Tourism Visionary
The Tourism Visionary Award honors an individual whose continuous commitment and trail-blazing accomplishments have set the stage for regional tourism.
Shauna Stewart, Former CEO, Experience Olympia & Beyond
Shina Wysocki, Owner, Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar
George Sharp, Rural Program Manager, Thurston Economic Development Council
John Doan, City Administrator, City of Tumwater
Board of Directors, South Sound Maritime Heritage Association
Excellence In Hospitality
All who work in the hospitality business provide an invaluable service to the well-being of our economy. The Excellence in Hospitality Award honors a hospitality professional who consistently goes out of their way to make visitors feel special.
Nathan Allan, Owner, Swantown Inn & Spa
Amilia Forsberg and Lucas Aguiar, General Manager, Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar
Mark Solberg, Maintenance Manager, Quality Inn Lacey
Joe Anderson, Regional District Manager, La Quinta Inn & Suites Tumwater
Patrick Knutson Tourism Legend
The Patrick Knutson Tourism Legend Award honors an individual who has served in the hospitality industry for 10+ years and either currently resides in or has roots in Thurston County. The award winner should exemplify the characteristics of leadership, innovation and stewardship in hospitality over his or her lifetime.
Pam Oates, General Manager, Budd Bay Cafe
Zoe Wells, Owner & Front of House Manager, La Petite Maison
Dannielle Knutson, Owner & Operator, Olympia Oyster House, Budd Bay Cafe, River's Edge Restaurants
Kerri Simon, Co-Owner, JP’s 316 Bistro
Patty Belmonte, CEO, Hands On Children’s Museum