Eugene, OR - The 2023 Oregon Governor's Conference on Tourism was held April 3-5 in the Rose City. Over 500 attendees assembled at the Oregon Convention Center for three days of learning and sharing with industry leaders from across the state and beyond. Kicking off the first evening was the annual awards banquet and presentation of the Oregon Governor’s Tourism Award. Governor Kotek presented two recipients this year, with the first going to Travel Lane County for hosting the World Athletics Championships Oregon22 in July 2022.
View the award video to hear Travel Lane County staff describe its role in the event and click here for more information on a wide variety of results from this historic event.
Kari Westlund, Travel Lane County President/CEO, accepted the award and noted, "Travel Lane County's board and staff are thrilled to accept the Oregon Governor's Tourism Award on behalf of Eugene- Springfield, Lane County and the entire State of Oregon. An event of this magnitude requires the collaboration of many partners. The State of Oregon, Travel Oregon, University of Oregon, City of Eugene, World Athletics, Chambers of Commerce, local community team host sites, regional destination marketing organizations and many more individuals and organizations worked together to make this international event unforgettable. We are humbled and honored to be recognized for playing our part in making the World Athletics Championships Oregon22 a success."
The Oregon Governor’s Tourism Award represents the culmination of our industry’s deep appreciation for the long-time commitment, accomplishment and service by an individual or individuals who have enhanced the Oregon visitor experience and elevated the travel and tourism industry. This year, Governor Kotek awarded two recipients with the Oregon Governor’s Tourism Award. The Eugene, Cascades & Coast region, along with the entire state of Oregon, hosted the world's best track and field athletes in an inspiring display of athletic ability. We welcomed thousands of visitors from across the globe, including more than 1,700 athletes representing 179 nations to compete at the University of Oregon’s Hayward Field. Athletes, families, friends, officials, volunteers and press from around the world were in attendance – many who experienced Oregon for the first time.
