Nominations for Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award Open Aug. 19

Walton County Tourism is excited to kick off the nomination period for the 2025 Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award. Submissions will be accepted from Monday, Aug. 19, through Friday, Sept. 6 on the Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award webpage.

The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award celebrates the legacy of service embodied by the Butler family, who founded the Grayton Beach Hotel and laid the groundwork for the growth of the tourism industry through their dedication and vision.

Award nominees are evaluated on their leadership, achievements, and innovation in driving organizational success, as well as their collaboration with local businesses or organizations to boost Walton County’s reputation as a premier travel destination, both nationally and internationally. Nominations are open to anyone living or working in Walton County who has made a significant impact in promoting tourism and hospitality.

“Walton County has a history of strong leadership from its hospitality and tourism partners. We invite our community to recognize an individual whose drive and passion for making Walton County such an exceptional place to visit has had the greatest impact, not only as a destination, but also for the travel industry,” said Walton County Tourism Communications Director Nicole Everett.

The winner will be recognized at the Walton County Tourism’s annual meeting in October 2024. For a list of previous winners, visit waltoncountyfltourism.com/van-ness-butler-jr-award. 

Please contact Lisa Foster, industry relations specialist, at Lisa@WCFLTourism.com or (850) 333-2728 if you have any questions about the Van Ness Butler Jr. Hospitality Award program.