Texas Tourism Hall of Fame

Service. Mentor. Innovator. Pioneer. Champion. Leader. These are the individuals who have helped to mold and advance the tourism industry in the state of Texas. TACVB created the Texas Tourism Hall of Fame to recognize individuals who have helped lead the way to evolve the future of the travel, tourism, and destination management industry in Texas. It is the highest honor that TACVB can bestow on any one individual.

Our goal is to recognize and honor these industry leaders and allow our members, as well as other industry partners across the state and beyond, to get to know their work, and the legacy that they have created.

Texas Tourism Hall of Fame Recipients

2024

  • Carla Pendergraft who led the City of Waco's tourism, marketing & funding efforts for more than 30 years.

2023

  • Bob Phillips who held leadership roles at Irving CVB, Grapevine CVB, Classic Attractions, and Visit Addison.
  • Sudie Burditt, who served as board chair multiple times and guided TACVB with unwavering principles.

2022

  • Doug Harman, who led the Fort Worth CVB from 1989 – 2006, and recipient of the 2008 Marion Szurek Leadership Award.
  • Nanci Liles, who led the Abilene CVB from 1985 to 2021, is a former chair of TACVB and recipient of the 2018 Marion Szurek Leadership Award.
  • The late Marion Szurek, who led the San Angelo CVB from 1979-2004, a recipient of the 2008 TACVB Legacy Award, which was renamed the Marion Szurek Leadership Award in her honor. She was also inducted into the Destinations International Hall of Fame in 2021.

Qualifications

This prestigious award provides a historical narrative of the leaders who have helped grow the tourism industry in Texas throughout the years. The selection criteria for nominations are as follows:

  • The individual has made impactful contributions to grow the tourism industry in Texas, both inside and outside of his/her organization.
  • Has actively generated awareness of the economic benefits of tourism.
  • Held a leadership position at his/her organization.
  • Is retired or no longer in the industry.
How to Nominate

Nominations for the next Texas Tourism Hall of Fame award will open Spring 2025.

The deadline for applications will be June 13, 2025.