Where Excellence Gets Recognized
Every great destination has a story worth celebrating, and behind every successful campaign, innovative idea, and thriving tourism organization are the people making it happen.
The Southeast Tourism Society's Shining Example Awards recognize the destinations, marketers, and industry professionals who are raising the bar for tourism across the Southeast. Whether you've launched a standout marketing campaign, transformed your organization, or know an emerging leader making an impact, now is the time to share those successes.
Recognition is more than receiving an award. It is an opportunity to showcase the innovation, creativity, and measurable results that strengthen our industry and inspire others to think bigger. By submitting a nomination, you help celebrate the work shaping the future of travel and tourism across the Southeast.
2026 Shining Example Award Categories
Tourism Office of the Year (Two Awards)
Annual Budget Under $1 Million
Annual Budget Over $1 Million
Recognizing destination organizations that demonstrate excellence in tourism marketing, promotion, public relations, innovation, and overall organizational performance.
Rising Star Award
Honoring exceptional individuals who are new to the tourism industry and have already demonstrated leadership potential, creativity, professional achievement, and a commitment to advancing tourism.
Best Marketing Awards (Six Awards)
Annual Advertising/Marketing Budget Under $100,000
Annual Advertising/Marketing Budget $100,000 to $499,999
Annual Advertising/Marketing Budget $500,000 to $999,999
Annual Advertising/Marketing Budget $1 Million+
Best Niche Marketing Award
Best Digital Marketing Award
These awards recognize outstanding destination marketing campaigns that demonstrate strategic thinking, creativity, strong execution, and measurable results.
Don't Let Your Great Work Go Unrecognized
Every campaign launched, partnership built, visitor welcomed, and milestone achieved contributes to the strength of tourism throughout the Southeast. The Shining Example Awards are your opportunity to celebrate those accomplishments while inspiring peers across the industry.
Whether you're nominating your organization, a colleague, or an exceptional campaign, your story deserves the spotlight.
Submit Your Nomination by August 7, 2026
The deadline is approaching quickly, and we don't want your success to go unnoticed.
Apply today, showcase your impact, and help us celebrate the people and organizations moving tourism forward. Your best work deserves to be recognized.