Nebraska Tourism Executive Director John Ricks honored with J. Desmond Slattery Professional Marketing Award

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FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jenn Gjerde at 402-525-4455, or [email protected]
Ben Jones at 402-326-9941, or [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LINCOLN, Neb. (January 30, 2024) — Nebraska Tourism Executive Director John Ricks was honored at the Marketing Outlook Forum 2024 Award Ceremony luncheon today in Houston, TX. Ricks was named the esteemed recipient of the J. Desmond Slattery Professional Marketing Award for 2024. This prestigious accolade recognizes Ricks' exceptional contributions to the field of travel and tourism marketing, highlighting his innovative campaigns and dedication to destination marketing, including promoting Nebraska as a premier travel destination.

The J. Desmond Slattery Professional Marketing Award is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated a significant impact on travel and tourism marketing nationally, within their state, or for a specific destination.

"It’s always a big honor to be recognized by fellow marketers and I am humbled to receive this distinguished award from the Marketing Outlook Forum. Big shoutout to the amazing team at Nebraska Tourism, board members and our many industry partners across the state! Their continued collaboration and teamwork were key to getting this recognition. Together we’re waking the state’s “Sleeping Giant” – Nebraska Tourism. I am excited about the continued success and impactful contributions we aim to make in the future,” said Ricks. “We’re helping people from far and wide peel back the onion and discover Nebraska.”

The Marketing Outlook Forum awards program was created to celebrate and acknowledge excellence in the realm of travel and tourism marketing. Participants are evaluated based on criteria such as quality, originality, creativity, utility, results and the positive impact on the travel and tourism industry.

For more information about travel, events and unique destinations in Nebraska, order your free travel guide today at VisitNebraska.com. Then stay connected with Nebraska Tourism on our Visit Nebraska Facebook page, on X, on Pinterest, on Instagram and on YouTube.

The mission of the Nebraska Tourism Commission is to expand Nebraska’s dynamic and diverse travel industry making it more viable by creating awareness, attracting increased visitors which results in greater tourism revenue and economic gain throughout the state. To learn more, go to VisitNebraska.com.