Event celebrates frontline workers, executives, and community partners during National Travel and Tourism Week
SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER, LA — Visit Shreveport-Bossier hosted the 2025 Excellence in Hospitality Awards on May 8 at the newly opened Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana, honoring more than two dozen local individuals and organizations whose dedication to hospitality continues to shape Shreveport-Bossier as a must-visit destination.
Held during National Travel and Tourism Week, the event spotlighted the essential role hospitality professionals play in shaping positive visitor experiences. The ceremony also featured the debut of the “Whatatable” contest, presented by Whataburger, and included remarks from Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser.
“Our people are what make Shreveport-Bossier remarkable,” said Stacy Brown, President & CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “Visitors don’t just leave with souvenirs—they leave with stories about the incredible hospitality they experienced. This event celebrates the heart behind those stories.”
Lt. Governor Nungesser added,
“Louisiana’s reputation for warmth and friendliness is built by people like you. These record-breaking tourism numbers are because of the way you make every visitor feel like family.”
Top Honors at the 2025 Awards Included:
- Outstanding Attraction: Sci-Port Discovery Center
- Outstanding Executive – Casino: John Chaszar, Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana
- Outstanding Culinary Professional – Non-Casino: Niema DiGrazia, Abby Singer’s Bistro
- Outstanding Event: Shreveport Ski Lodge at Fatty Arbuckles Pub
- Outstanding Festival: Mudbug Madness
- Outstanding Volunteer: Ashley Henning-Clarke
In total, more than 30 categories recognized standout performances across front-line service, event planning, sales, and executive leadership.
The prestigious Golden Pineapple Award—symbolizing lifetime contribution to local tourism—was presented to Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation, while the Tourism Trailblazer Award honored Joe E. “Butch” Ford, Jr. for his pioneering leadership.
Aviation Advancement Recognized
Shreveport Regional Airport received the Aviation Advancement Award under the Destination Development category, underscoring its continued role in enhancing visitor access and infrastructure development.
Visit Shreveport-Bossier extends thanks to presenting sponsor Whataburger and video sponsor Conterra Networks, along with the countless community partners whose collaboration fuels local tourism.
For the full list of honorees and award details, visit: VisitShreveportBossier.org/awards