Jackson Wins Big at Mississippi Tourism Association's Governor's Conference on Tourism
October 9, 2023
Jackson won big at this year's Governor's Conference on Tourism produced by the Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) held in Meridian, Mississippi October 4 - 6, 2023.
Visit Jackson, the official destination marketing organization for Jackson, Mississippi – the City With Soul – was named the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) of the Year in the $3,000,000 and over budget category for the fourth consecutive year.
This prestigious award is presented to the organization that has demonstrated the highest level of excellence in marketing and promoting their destination. This designation is a testament to Visit Jackson's unwavering commitment to promoting Jackson as a top-tier travel destination, the team’s hard work, passion and collaborative spirit, coupled with the support of its Board of Directors and its partners.
“We are honored and proud to be recognized as the DMO of the Year for the fourth consecutive year,” said Dr. Rickey Thigpen, President and CEO of Visit Jackson. “This award underscores our commitment to showcasing the beauty and culture of Jackson to the world, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to make Jackson a top travel destination.”
Mississippi Museum of Art Wins Travel Attraction of the Year
The Mississippi Museum of Art, also located in Mississippi's capital city, was named Travel Attraction of the Year.
This distinguished award is presented to an attraction that is new or unique in attracting visitors to its city and shows results in bringing in tourists and visitors.
Among other accomplishments, the Mississippi Museum of Art was recognized for its bicentennial exhibit: "A Movement in Every Direction: Legacies of the Great Migration," which was designated a critic's pick by The New York Times, praised by The Guardian for the exhibit's range and saw 60,000 visitors with a 10% increase of out-of-state visitors from Texas, Lousiana, New York and Georgia.
“We are thrilled that the Mississippi Tourism Association has named the Mississippi Museum of Art, Travel Attraction of the Year,” said Dr. Thigpen. “This award exemplifies the museum’s commitment to excellence and its role as a major cultural asset to our state.”
"We are proud to have the Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson, as it serves as a cultural ambassador. We encourage everyone to visit and experience its many offerings. Congratulations to the museum and its staff on this well-deserved recognition.”
The Mississippi Museum of Art offers a world-class experience to visitors of all ages. From its permanent collection to its special exhibitions, the museum showcases the best of art from Mississippi and around the world. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, making it a great place to learn about art and culture.
The Mississippi Tourism Association annually recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions within the tourism industry in Mississippi.
Governor Tate Reeves was in attendance and spoke to the tourism professionals about the phenomenal job they are doing as the 4th largest industry in the state.
About MTA Governor’s Conference on Tourism Awards:
The Governor’s Conference on Tourism, an annual educational and professional development event, brought together more than 200 tourism industry professionals from across the state and tourism partners from the surrounding region. The awards program allows MTA to recognize the best of the best from their 200-plus-member organization. Awards were presented in several categories, each focusing on a different aspect of the hospitality industry or individual achievement.
For interviews, statements and story ideas:
Yolanda Clay-Moore, ycmoore@visitjackson.com or 601.345.2588