The New York State Tourism Industry Association (“NYSTIA”) has announced recipients of the 2022 NYS Tourism Excellence awards, recognizing the work done by tourism professionals, organizations and businesses to contribute to the resurgence of tourism statewide. Awarded annually, in 2022 the Tourism Excellence Awards lauded the efforts, initiatives and leadership statewide that helped the tourism industry overcome the tremendous challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

NYSTIA named three 2022 award recipients in Erie County:

Recovery & Resurgence: Excellence in Leadership: Mark Poloncarz, Erie County Executive

Recovery & Resurgence: Innovations & Strategies to Address New/Unique/Changing Markets: Visit Buffalo Niagara’s Book Club

Excellence in Tourism Marketing Campaigns, Projects & Programs, Digital Marketing: Upstate Eats Trail

“While the pandemic dealt a heavy blow to our local tourism efforts, our rebound is continuing to gain steam and our efforts are being noticed,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “Being recognized is appreciated, but I am prouder to be a part of a team of professionals that made this possible and continues to work hard for the people of Erie County.”

“On behalf of Visit Buffalo Niagara, it was my honor to nominate Erie County Executive Poloncarz for this award,” said Patrick Kaler, VBN President & CEO. “The funds that the County Executive entrusted to VBN and the Amherst Chamber of Commerce stimulated measurable economic impact to ensure that the small businesses in Erie County could continue to thrive and prosper through the “Back to Business’ campaign complemented by the Shop716 gift card program.”

The organizations, businesses, institutions, and individuals honored will receive their awards and be honored at a special ceremony at the New Yorker Hotel in New York City on October 27, 2022. For a complete list of 2022 NYSTIA Tourism Excellence Award winners, click here .

For more information:

On Visit Buffalo Niagara, visit https://www.visitbuffaloniagara.com/