Visit Casper Announces Tourism Award Nominees

There are four categories for this year’s awards, including Natrona County Rising Star of 2026, Natrona County Frontline Excellence Award of 2026, Natrona County Tourism Face of Tourism of 2026 and Visit Casper Advocates MVP of the Year.

“These nominees represent a snapshot of the many incredible people in Natrona County’s tourism industry,” said Annette Pitts of Visit Casper. “We’re grateful for them and their ongoing dedication to keeping travel and tourism as a strong economic driver in our community.”

Here are the nominations and their respective categories:

Natrona County Tourism Face of Tourism of 2026

This category is for seasoned professionals who have helped shape the tourism landscape in Natrona County, with at least 10 years of experience.

Chastidy Cockrum, Rotary Club
Chynna Christensen, HHM Group Hotels
Dave Harris, Dave’s Darts
Glenda Thomas, McMurry Companies & the Wold Foundation
Hind Dia, Candlewood Suites
Karin East, Regency Hotel Management
Renee Penton-Hones, Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center
Russell Hawley, Tate Geological Museum
Tammi Chappell, Hyatt Place

Natrona County Rising Star of 2026

This category is for individuals who have been in the industry five years or less but are making a remarkable impact.

Amanda Flanagan, Ford Wyoming Center
Cole Montgomery, MHM Stifel Wealth Management
Ryan Butler, Hogadon Basin Ski Area
Sadie Martinez, Hampton Inn & Suites
Zach Martinez, Hampton Inn & Suites

Natrona County Frontline Excellence Award of 2026

Honors front-of-house hospitality professionals who go above and beyond to create unforgettable guest experiences, being a face for Natrona County.

Anna Studer, Lovely Lemon Juice Co
Ashlynn Peverley, Metro Coffee Co
Dan Foote, Ford Wyoming Center
Katherine Brown, Candlewood Suites
Tyler Patik, Zeelo’s Cranks & Planks

Visit Casper Advocates MVP of the Year

This award recognizes a Visit Casper Advocate who consistently goes above and beyond in supporting visitors, volunteering and championing tourism in Natrona County.

Debbie Mestas, CNFR Day Sheet Seller
Ginny Garner, Casper College
Kaycee Wiita, Compete Casper/Fly Casper Alliance
Sarah Weinhandl, Compete Casper
Stewart McAdoo, volunteer

More information about the award nominees can be found at www.visitcasper.com/partner-resources/nttw/tourism-award-nominees. The full schedule of National Travel & Tourism Week events can be found here.

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About Visit Casper

Visit Casper is the official destination management and marketing organization for Natrona County and is dedicated to enhancing the county’s economic base and improving quality of life through tourism. Casper is Wyoming’s second-largest city and is home to world-class fly fishing on the North Platte River, historic trails and an inviting downtown. You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, or discover images and content with #VisitCasper.