Visit Jackson named our 31st annual Hometown Hero and S.U.M.I.T.T. award recipients in a presentation at The Capri Theatre on March 7, 2024.
The event was established to reflect the industry’s deep appreciation for long-time commitment, accomplishments, and service by individuals and entities that have enhanced the Jackson visitor experience and elevated the travel and tourism industry.
Festival & Event Organizers
Stephen Brown, Briarwood Arts Center and the MS Museum of Art
Ryan Parker, Mississippi Film Society
Sirena Wilson, Capitol Police Department
Brad Franklin, JXN Indie Music Week
Eric Collins, First Friday on Farish
Meeting & Group Tour Planners
Walter Hull, Southeastern Rodeo Association
Dr. Alyssa Killebrew, Keath Killebrew Memorial Rodeo
Shonda De Verteuil, Mississippi Association of Housing Officers
Willie Demus, Black Softball Circuit
Tim Bennett, Hank Aaron Sports Academy
Travel & Tourism Industry Employees
Susan Garrard, Mississippi Children's Museum
Marcus Spann, Johnny T's Bistro & Blues
Corey Wright, Mississippi Museum of Natural Science
2024 S.U.M.I.T.T. Awards
Attraction of the Year, Margaret Walker Center
Festival or Event of the Year, Phillis Wheatley Poetry Festival
Friend of Tourism, Coach Tomekia Reed - JSU Women's Basketball
Full-Service Hotel of the Year, The Westin Jackson
Limited-Service Hotel of the Year, Homewood Suites by Hilton Jackson - Fondren Medical District
Restaurant of the Year, Johnny T's Bistro & Blues
Shining Example Awards
International Ballet Competition, Mona Nicholas, Executive Director USA IBC
Harvey Johnson, Jr., Former Mayor, City of Jackson
Visionary Award
J. Kane Ditto, Esq., Former Mayor, City of Jackson
Special thanks to this year's host location, The Capri Theatre in Fondren!