Branson Brings Home Three Top Awards at Governor's Conference
Explore Branson was honored with three of the top awards at the annual Missouri Governor’s Conference on Tourism held Oct. 4-6 in Cape Girardeau.
Stephen Foutes (Director at Missouri Division of Tourism), Rachel Wood, Lynn Berry, and Ashlie Beede.
Rachel Wood (Left), Chief Marketing Officer for the Branson CVB, accepted the Marketing Campaign Award recognizing special achievements in effective, integrated marketing campaigns that lead to increased visitation and revenue. The campaign employed more than one promotional medium. The Branson CVB launched a multi-media campaign to increase first-time and repeat visitation to Branson. The central message of the campaign – “Your vacation needs Branson” – encouraged visitors to give their vacation the best things Branson has to offer, including live music shows, family attractions, golfing, fishing, an award-winning theme park and more.
Lynn Berry (Center), Director of Communications for Explore Branson, was inducted into the Missouri Tourism Hall of Fame. The Tourism Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have worked in the industry a minimum of 10 years (Berry has been with the Branson CVB for 17 years) and whose contributions have significantly and measurably impacted tourism in Missouri. Berry was honored for her extensive experience in the tourism industry, which has resulted in initiatives to spotlight the Ozarks, national attention for Branson, countless news stories, and support for tourism throughout Missouri.
Ashlie Beede (Right), Director of Marketing, received the Rising Star Award. This award honors an individual who has worked for a tourism-related organization less than five years or who has transitioned to a new role and made significant advancements to the organization’s efforts. Within three years, Beede has helped transform Explore Branson’s marketing efforts through innovative digital marketing campaigns, influencer partnerships and website expansion projects. She capitalizes on emerging trends and is currently implementing sustainability practices to set the organization up for long-term success.