Visit Anchorage recognized exceptional contributions to the visitor industry and the community as a whole with the 2023 Seymour Awards. The award winners were revealed April 14, 2023, at the Dena’ina Center. An annual tradition for Anchorage’s tourism community, the Seymour Awards had been on hiatus since the last banquet was held in 2019.
Photos from the Seymour Awards - Aurora Nights
This year’s awards recognized individuals and businesses demonstrating excellence in 10 categories, with several awards given out to more than one deserving recipient.
Volunteers of the Year - Bryan Silva, Robert Elliot
Contribution to Community award - Tim Worthen, Peter Grunwaldt, Josh Howes
Tour Operator of the Year - Alaska Photo Treks Carl Johnson
Meeting Planner of the Year - Bonnie Carroll, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
Visitor Industry Advancement - Hilltop Ski Area
All Alaskan Award - Rich Owens, Mary Pignalberi
Philanthropic Tourism Award - The Bait Shack
Lifetime Achievement Award - Dan McDonough
Member of the Year - Anchorage Golf Course
Small Biz member of the Year - Alaska Helicopter Tours
Tamae Seto of Kodiak and Heather Reiss were also announced as this year’s recipients of the Tania Hancock Memorial Scholarship, given to Alaska students pursuing educational opportunities. The Seymour Awards also highlighted 14 member businesses recognized for their longstanding commitment to the industry as the final class of Visit Anchorage’s Charter Members.
Congratulations to each of the 2023 nominees and Seymour Award recipients.
