Wilmington and Beaches CVB honors hospitality leaders with 2026 tourism awards
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau honored some of the region’s top hospitality leaders and employees during its annual Travel Rally celebration earlier this month, presenting the 2026 Tourism Star Awards and Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Awards at the Cameron Art Museum.
The awards, presented by Kim Hufham, president and CEO of the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority, recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the local tourism and hospitality industry.
“Each year during National Travel and Tourism Week, the CVB organizes a Travel Rally event to celebrate the dedicated people who work in New Hanover County’s hospitality industry,” Hufham said in a release. “As part of the celebration, we recognize individuals whose extraordinary contributions help to make Wilmington and our island beaches the best of the Carolina coast.”
This year’s Tourism Star Awards were presented to three hospitality professionals recognized for their leadership and dedication to creating memorable visitor experiences.
Albert Williams, banquet manager at Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront, was honored for his commitment to customer service and event management since joining the hotel in 2018.
Bailey Kaufman, program manager for Sea Turtle Camp at Wrightsville Beach Surf Camp, was recognized for coordinating educational and environmental programs that introduce campers and families to the area’s beaches and coastal culture.
Lauren Donald, registrar for visitor services at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, was also honored for her role in welcoming guests and coordinating programs for thousands of visitors each year.
The Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Award, established in 2018 in honor of the CVB’s first executive director, recognizes long-term leadership and impact within the tourism industry.
This year, the award was presented to John Andrews, owner and operator of South Beach Grill, for more than four decades of contributions to hospitality in the Wilmington area. Andrews opened South Beach Grill in 1997 and has become known for championing locally sourced seafood and supporting area fishermen, farmers and small businesses.
The Wilmington and Beaches CVB promotes tourism and travel experiences throughout New Hanover County and its beach communities.
