Visit Jackson named our 32nd annual Hometown Hero and S.U.M.I.T.T. award recipients in a presentation at The Capri Theatre on March 6, 2025.
The event was established to reflect the industry’s deep appreciation for long-time commitment, accomplishments, and service by individuals and entities that have enhanced the Jackson visitor experience and elevated the travel and tourism industry.
Festival & Event Organizers
Amanda FitzGerald, The Local Palate (JXN Food & Wine)
Blues by Starlight Planning Committee (Blues by Starlight)
Belhaven’s Bright Lights Committee, The Greater Belhaven Foundation (Belhaven’s Bright Lights)*
Stevie Hendrix (JXN Tattoo Soul & Arts Festival)
Thabi Moyo (Magnolia Sunset Market)
Meeting & Group Tour Planners
Dr. Allen Sinegal (Mississippi Track Stars)
Dana Walker (Mississippi Nurses Association)
Dr. Adam Protos (Mississippi State Kennel Club)
Eugenia Scott, Ph.D. (Jackson State University, College of Education and Human Development)
Helen Brown (Friends of Fallen Riders)
Travel & Tourism Industry Employees
Aubrey “BJ” Norman
The Community Foundation for Mississippi
Officer Nicholas Moore (Capitol Police)
Coach TC Taylor (Jackson State University Football)
2025 S.U.M.I.T.T. Awards
Attraction of the Year, Two Mississippi Museums
Festival or Event of the Year, JSU Homecoming
Friend of Tourism, Stephen Brown
Full-Service Hotel of the Year, The Westin Jackson
Limited-Service Hotel of the Year, Homewood Suites by Hilton Jackson - Fondren Medical District
Restaurant of the Year, Iron Horse Grill
Shining Example Awards
Doristeen Washington, Visit Jackson
Visionary Award
Visit Mississippi
THEE Sonic Boom of the South
Special thanks to this year's host location, The Capri Theatre in Fondren!