The Ruth Ziolkowski Outstanding Hospitality & Customer Service Award recognizes members of the tourism industry who, like Ruth Ziolkowski, have demonstrated remarkable service to every visitor they encounter, and whose work demonstrates an outstanding spirit of hospitality, warmth and genuine kindness.
An individual from each of the four tourism regions is honored annually. The recipients are selected by each region's board of directors.
Presented to
Ann Thompson
Deputy Secretary Wanda Goodman, Viga Ziolkowski, Monique Ziolkowski
and Governor Kristi Noem present a 2022 Ruth Ziolkowski Award to
Ann Thompson, Rapid City, at the 2023 Governor's Conference on Tourism.
downloadable, hi-res version of this photo (300 dpi)
Since 1991, Ann's company Affordable Adventures has provided adventures and guided tours to travelers from all over the world. Ann is said to exemplify the same care and friendliness that Ruth exhibited for many years. She takes extra care and attention to ensure visitors get an informative and engaging experience while visiting the Black Hills area. Customers rave about the "extras" and personalized customer service they receive, like the friends who mentioned they like chocolate. Their guide strayed from the set itinerary and took them to the Chubby Chipmunk in Deadwood for "truffles to die for."
And,
Presented to
Troy Magnuson
Deputy Secretary Wanda Goodman, Viga Ziolkowski, Monique Ziolkowski
and Governor Kristi Noem present a 2022 Ruth Ziolkowski Award to
Troy Magnuson, Mitchell, at the 2023 Governor's Conference on Tourism.
downloadable version of this photo
Troy is said to excel in hospitality and customer service and has easily given thousands of one-of-a-kind tours in his career. Troy even comes in on his day off to help in the gift shop or provide tours for visitors who request one from him. From elementary students to tour groups of retirees, Troy ensures every visitor has an educational and enjoyable time while visiting the Corn Palace. In addition, his nominators say he truly enjoys meeting and talking to visitors every day and is an essential staple in the Mitchell community.
And,
Presented to
Lisa Marotz
Deputy Secretary Wanda Goodman, Viga Ziolkowski, Monique Ziolkowski
and Governor Kristi Noem present a 2022 Ruth Ziolkowski Award to
Lisa Marotz, Brookings, at the 2023 Governor's Conference on Tourism.
downloadable, hi-res version of this photo (300 dpi)
Lisa's nominators say she has a passion for tourism and customer service, inspiring staff to do their best every day. She understands the secret to success is treating everyone as a valued guest and providing enough incentive to keep them returning for more. Lisa and her team have done this by filling gaps in service and providing extra amenities like a barista-grade coffee maker and hand-scooped individual servings of SDSU ice cream for visitors to purchase after the dairy bar closes for the day. In addition, her creativity in providing year-round special programming has increased visitor numbers at McCrory Gardens year after year.
And,
Presented to
Lori Owens
Deputy Secretary Wanda Goodman, Viga Ziolkowski, Monique Ziolkowski
and Governor Kristi Noem present a 2022 Ruth Ziolkowski Award to
Lori Owens, Fort Pierre, at the 2023 Governor's Conference on Tourism.
downloadable, hi-res version of this photo (300 dpi)
The great football coach Vince Lombardi once said, "It takes months to find a customer… seconds to lose one." Lori understands this. She goes out of her way to ensure every customer receives five-star service. Not only is Lori very knowledgeable about her profession, but she has mastered the skill and art of excellent food service. Foodies in Pierre and Fort Pierre may recognize Lori for her ability to explain specials and menu items first at La Minestra and now at Drifters. Even in stressful situations, Lori can keep her calm and ensure guests have an enjoyable dining experience.
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