South County resident presented with the Mary Brennan Tourism Award by Rhode Island Hospitality

The Rhode Island Hospitality Association (RIHA) recently honored Myrna George, South Kingstown resident and President and CEO of the South County Tourism Council, with the Mary Brennan Tourism Award at its “Stars of the Industry” Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony.  The Stars of the Industry Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of members in the hospitality, foodservice and tourism industries.  Award recipients were chosen not only for their dedication and contributions to their careers, but for their involvement in the local communities.

As President and CEO of the South County Tourism Council, Ms. George is responsible for the development of tourism growth in eleven southern Rhode Island communities.  She coordinates state, local, federal government and regional organizations to enhance economic and community growth through tourism development.  She also leads the marketing and media creation of the Award winning South County Style Vacation Guide, garnering the North American Travel Journalist Association award in 2008, 2010 & 2011 for South County.  Myrna also serves on the Boards of RI Rural Conservation & Development, RI Greenways Council, the RI Scenic Highway Council and the Rhode Island Sports Commission.

“Mary Brennan served as the Director of Marketing for the Rhode Island Airport Corporation and she helped lay the foundation for many of the tourism initiatives in-place today.  Myrna George is a tireless advocate for tourism in South County and plays a vital role in attracting visitors to the state.  She is fiercely proud to stand up for the work that she and her staff do.  She should be, because they do an incredible job!  Under her guidance, the travel guide South County Style has been recognized as one of the top travel guides in the country not once – but three times!” said Dale Venturini, President and CEO of RIHA. 

With more than 600 food service and hospitality members in Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Hospitality Association has been the voice of the hospitality and tourism industry in the state for more than 26 years.