SOUTHERN ROOTS AND MODERN TAKES: CULINARY AND MEDIA EVENT IN NEW YORK CITY NAMED TOURISM PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR BY MISSISSIPPI TOURISM ASSOCIATION
Vicksburg, Miss. (Oct. 3, 2025) — The Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) recognized the impact and
accomplishments of the state’s tourism industry at its annual Tourism Awards Program, held during the Governor’s
Conference on Tourism at the Vicksburg Convention Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Oct. 1-3. The annual educational
and professional development event brought together approximately 250 tourism industry professionals from across the
state, as well as partners from the surrounding region.
The awards program gives MTA the opportunity to recognize members who excel in various sectors of the industry.
Awards were presented in 20 categories, each focusing on a different aspect of the hospitality industry or individual
achievement.
“We are honored to recognize these outstanding professionals whose dedication continues to elevate their communities
and our entire industry. Each award reflects not only remarkable individual achievement but also the strength and
momentum of Mississippi tourism. As we look ahead, I’m inspired by the talent, passion, and collaboration that will
continue driving our state forward and growing our economy,” said MTA Executive Director, Danielle Morgan.
This year’s Tourism Partnership of the Year award was presented to Southern Roots and Modern Takes: Culinary and
Media Event in New York City. The honor recognizes effective partnerships among entities within the tourism industry.
To amplify the flavors, stories, and foodways of the Magnolia State, Visit Mississippi, Visit Jackson, Coastal
Mississippi, and Visit Oxford partnered for a collaborative, sensory-rich showcase at Platform by the James Beard
Foundation in New York City. Through the lens of rising talent from each destination, chefs prepared dishes rooted in
place and paired them with craft distillery beverages, each one expanding on the state’s creative spirit.
The event marked the first multi-destination activation between Visit Mississippi and the James Beard Foundation,
demonstrating the power of regional collaboration to elevate the state’s culinary brand. The partnership provided a
pivotal platform for Mississippi’s culinary artisans to forge personal connections with influential journalists, while the
ticketed dinner offered culinary-focused travelers an inspiring taste of the state’s hospitality, sparking curiosity,
connection, and a desire to explore Mississippi through its food, stories, and people.
“We are proud to celebrate the outstanding individuals and organizations who have made such a meaningful impact on
Mississippi’s tourism industry this year. We have incredibly strong tourism industry professionals representing our
state’s 4th largest industry, and those recognized this year are no exception. Their dedication, creativity and hard work
not only strengthen our communities but also inspire visitors to experience the very best of what our state has to offer.
These award winners set the standard for excellence in tourism, and we are honored to recognize their achievements,”
said Laura Beth Strickland, 2025-2026 President of MTA.
About the Mississippi Tourism Association
The voice of tourism, the Mississippi Tourism Association is a membership organization whose mission is to unite all
sectors of the tourism industry through advocacy, promotion and education. MTA’s vision is to transform Mississippi’s
economy through increased visitor spending and overall travel industry growth. For more than 35 years, MTA has led
the Mississippi’s tourism education and advocacy efforts. Membership and organization details can be found at
www.mstourism.com
About Visit Mississippi
Celebrated as The Hospitality State and proudly known as the Birthplace of America’s Music, Mississippi invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable adventures. From the soulful sounds of the Delta to the serene beauty of the Gulf Coast and Appalachian foothills, Mississippi is a destination where every journey tells a story.
Visit Mississippi, a division of the Mississippi Development Authority, serves as the state’s official destination marketing organization. As storytellers and cultural ambassadors, we champion Mississippi through strategic global marketing, innovative partnerships, and creative collaboration. Our mission is to elevate the state’s thriving tourism economy and inspire visitors from around the world to discover the magic that is Mississippi.
For more information, visit visitmississippi.org.
Link to Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/sz7lzuxunz56vmh1hdafv/AEmX6-DkhUAXZWYoQbPE-
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