Destination Madison Awards
The Destination Madison Awards (DMAs) recognize and celebrate individuals and organizations who exemplify tourism excellence and the spirit of hospitality that solidifies the Madison area as a world-class visitor destination. These awards proudly spotlight a diverse cross-section of the hospitality and tourism industry, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of their service and recognizing them for going above and beyond to create memorable visitor experiences for all.
Three to five (3-5) finalists will be chosen per category by a selection committee of industry professionals and invited to attend Destination Madison's This is 50: A Celebration of Our Destination event on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at The Sylvee. Award winners will be announced live at the event.
Nominations are now closed this year's Destination Madison Awards.
We will inform all nominees and finalists in each category in mid-October.
Questions? Contact partnership@visitmadison.com.
Jump to award categories
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.
Nomination questions
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What makes this nominee a leader and rising star?
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Using a specific example or examples, describe how this nominee has demonstrated enthusiasm for the hospitality industry.
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Describe your nominee’s professional achievements.
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Is there anything else about your nominee that you would like the committee to consider?
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 job/employer and performance-related accomplishments.
Nomination questions
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How has this nominee demonstrated dedication on the job?
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Using a specific example or examples, describe how this nominee has demonstrated service excellence and integrity at their job.
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Describe your nominee’s professional achievements as a public-facing service employee.
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Is there anything else about your nominee that you would like the committee to consider?
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.
Nomination questions
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How has this nominee demonstrated dedication on the job?
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Using a specific example or examples, describe how this nominee has demonstrated service excellence and integrity at their job.
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Describe your nominee’s professional achievements “behind the scenes” at their job.
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Is there anything else about your nominee that you would like the committee to consider?
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.
Nomination questions
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Briefly describe how your nominee has distinguished themself in the hospitality/tourism industry.
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Using a specific example or examples, describe how this nominee has demonstrated leadership in and service to the industry.
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Describe your nominee’s professional achievements and service to the community.
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Is there anything else about your nominee that you would like the committee to consider?
SYLVIA AND HERB FRANK VISIONARY AWARD
This award recognizes a business or organization that has made exceptional achievements in providing valuable services or products to Madison's visitor economy, while simultaneously enhancing quality of life for residents. Nominees in this category have demonstrated a commitment to fostering tourism, creating memorable experiences, and contributing to the overall growth and development of Madison as a destination.
Herb and Sylvia were the founders of Frank Productions and the inspiration for its evolution into a company that brings world-class artists and entertainment to our community. Herb and Sylvia instilled a sense of responsibility in their children to engage in the community and support important philanthropic causes. Their legacy continues to impact the Madison hospitality industry and philanthropic initiatives.
Nomination questions
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How has this business/organization distinguished itself in the local hospitality/tourism industry?
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Using a specific example or examples, describe how this nominee has demonstrated a commitment to creating memorable experiences for Madison’s visitors.
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How has this nominee contributed to the overall growth and development of Madison as a destination?
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Is there anything else about your nominee that you would like the committee to consider?
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.
