Destination Madison Awards 2024

The Destination Madison Awards (DMAs) are the highlight of our year—a chance for us to gather and celebrate the outstanding individuals who contribute to our hospitality community. We're so excited to honor the best and brightest of the year. 

Nominations are reviewed individually by a selection committee comprised of a cross-section of industry professionals. There are six award categories. Finalists will be chosen per category by the selection committee, and all nominees are invited to attend the Summer Summit + DMAs on June 27, 2024 at The Edgewater. Award winners will be announced live at the event. 

We are excited to announce two new awards this year: the Sustainability Excellence Award and the MASC Sports Champion of the Year Award.

Nominations are due by Monday, April 22 at 5:00 p.m.


Rising Star Award

The Rising Star Award recognizes individuals who have been in the industry for fewer than five years and consistently achieve excellence in their current role while demonstrating the potential to become a pivotal figure in Madison’s tourism industry. Nominations will be evaluated on examples of leadership, going above and beyond to create exceptional experiences and performance-related accomplishments.  


Destination Host Award

The Destination Host Award recognizes the dedication and service excellence of employees in Madison’s tourism industry who provide service directly to guests. Nominations will be evaluated on examples of customer service excellence, integrity, commitment to their role and employer and performance-related accomplishments. 


Behind the Scenes Service Award

The Behind the Scenes Service Award recognizes the dedication and service excellence of employees in Madison’s tourism industry who work out of public view. Nominations will be evaluated on examples of service excellence, integrity, commitment to job/employer and performance-related accomplishments. 


Distinguished Achievement Award

The Distinguished Achievement Award recognizes an individual who has distinguished themselves in Madison’s tourism industry by exemplifying the highest level of leadership and service. Nominations will be evaluated on examples of professional excellence, values and integrity, and outstanding achievements that represent the best of the best in our destination. 


The Sustainability Excellence Award

The Sustainability Excellence Award recognizes an individual or business within the hospitality industry that demonstrates exceptional commitment to sustainable practices. This recipient should exemplify the fusion of environmental consciousness, social responsibility, and economic viability. 


MASC SPORTS CHAMPION of the YEAR AWARD  

This award recognizes an individual or organization who has significantly contributed to the growth and development of sports participation, access or helping to bring events to the Madison community.  The recipient of this award has supported the Madison Area Sports Commission to build its high-profile host history and build the local economy. In addition, the recipient’s passion for sports within our community has had a lasting impact on the lives of our residents and visitors. 


FINE PRINT

Current Destination Madison staff are not eligible. 

Upon receipt, submissions will be reviewed by Destination Madison staff for eligibility and completeness. Nominations should include specific examples of how the nominee meets the stated award criteria. Destination Madison staff will contact nominator if nomination is incomplete and request additional information to support the nomination. If no additional information is received, the nomination will not be reviewed by the selection committee.

Nominations are reviewed individually by a selection committee comprised of a cross-section of industry professionals.