Central ND News

Governor Kelly Armstrong, together with Commerce Tourism and Marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman and DMAND President Julie Rygg, presented the 2025 Governor’s Travel and Tourism Awards during the North Dakota Travel Industry Conference in Minot. The awards honor individuals and projects that have significantly contributed to the state’s travel and tourism sector.

Governor Armstrong underscored the economic importance of tourism in North Dakota, stating, "Tourism is a vital part of North Dakota's economy, and we are honored to celebrate these exceptional leaders who work tirelessly to promote and enhance our legendary state." He emphasized the role of creativity and dedication in attracting visitors and acknowledged contributions from more than 3,000 businesses and over 45,000 industry employees.

The seven award winners were recognized for their efforts in various categories:

Kelly Sorge of Indian Hills Resort received the Heritage Award for a Front-line Tourism Employee for her dedication and service spanning over four decades. She has been noted for enhancing visitor experiences and contributing to tourism growth in the Lake Sakakawea area.

The Sakakawea Award for a Behind-the-Scenes Tourism Employee was awarded to Deanne Cunningham from the North Dakota Dept of Commerce for her 26 years of dedication to group travel and exceptional customer service, which have positively impacted the state's tourism industry.

Brock White earned the Amplifier Award for Marketing Excellence through his successful initiatives in Watford City, including digital media projects that have increased the city’s visibility and strengthened community identity.

Jeff and Jennifer Gooss were honored with the Flint Firestarter Award for their "Wheelchairs and Walleyes" project, which aims to make outdoor recreation accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability, by establishing inclusive amenities at Lake Sakakawea.

The Trailblazer Award for Tourism Innovation went to Joe Weigand, who has drawn national attention to North Dakota by portraying Theodore Roosevelt, thereby highlighting the state's historical and cultural significance.

Stephanie Schoenrock was recognized with the Legend Award for Travel & Tourism Industry Leadership due to her impactful work in tourism marketing and leadership at Visit Minot, contributing to downtown development and promoting regional tourism.

Darian Morsette was posthumously awarded the Wade Westin Award for his transformative work as the MHA Tribal Tourism Director and contributions to the North Dakota Native Tourism Alliance, which has promoted tribal culture and history.

Additional information on the 2025 Governor's Travel and Tourism Award Winners is available at www.commerce.nd.gov/tourism-marketing/travel-industry-conference/governors-travel-and-tourism-award.