Richmond Region Tourism recognized key individuals and organizations for their contributions to the area’s hospitality industry during its 2025 Awards and Annual Meeting on May 7 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. 

Over 400 community and business leaders attended the event, which featured a keynote address from Al Hutchinson, president and CEO of Visit Baltimore. Jon Lugbill, executive director of Sports Backers, received the Jack Berry Tourism Impact Award. Lugbill was honored for in establishing Richmond as a destination for sports tourism through events such as Dominion Energy Riverrock and the Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K.

“Tourism is a powerful economic engine in our region and a force for good,” said Katherine O’Donnell, president and CEO of Richmond Region Tourism.

The award for Attraction of the Year was presented to Kings Dominion, recognized for its commitment to family-friendly entertainment, such as Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. The Chairman’s Award went to Visitable, a nonprofit focused on improving accessibility in public spaces for people with disabilities.

Lee Ford, event manager at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, received the Customer Service Award for supporting large-scale conventions and events. The Event of the Year award was given to the Tri-City Chili Peppers for their innovative “Cosmic Baseball” games, which featured glow-in-the-dark baseball uniforms.

Quirk Hotel was named Hotel of the Year, recognized for its unique design, commitment to local art and high standard of hospitality. The MVP Sports Award was given to the Richmond Strikers, a youth soccer club known for hosting large tournaments.

Bryant & Stratton College was named Partner of the Year for its collaboration with tourism and hospitality sectors, especially in workforce development. The Restaurant of the Year award went to The Original Ronnie’s BBQ known for its Southern cuisine.

Dennis Bickmeier, executive director of the Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority, received the Tourism Leadership Award for developing sports tourism assets such as the Henrico Sports & Events Center.

The event also raised funds for the Richmond Region Tourism Foundation, which supports workforce development, education, diversity and sports tourism. During the meeting, the Foundation awarded $1,000 scholarships to Shayma Reese and Sakorii Whiteman, students in the Hospitality Management program at Virginia State University.