Tourism Hall of Fame
The Utah Tourism Hall of Fame is presented by the Utah Office of Tourism and the Utah Tourism Industry Association. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected annually for contributions made to Utah’s tourism industry at the state, regional, or local levels. First introduced in 1985, the award has recognized individuals who have elevated life in Utah through their leadership in tourism marketing, stewardship, and destination management.
DESMOND BARKER
Utah Tourism Industry Association Legislative Strategist
KAITLIN ESKELSON
Visit Salt Lake
President & CEO
VICKI VARELA
Utah Office of Tourism
Former Managing Director
NEIL WILKINSON
Temple Square Hospitality
Former Director of Hospitality
The 2024 Utah Tourism Hall of Fame inductees were recognized at a ceremony at the Utah Tourism Conference, held in Layton. It was an honor to celebrate these inductees for their timeless and dedicated passion for the industry. Des Barker, Kaitlin Eskelson, Vicki Varela, and Neil Wilkinson have been at the forefront of advocating for Utah and its future in the tourism realm. They are all an inspiration for the past, present, and future industry leaders in Utah.
Beginning in 1985, the Hall of Fame has honored recipients who have contributed toward improving the national/international recognition of the positive aspects of visiting Utah, improved the understanding of Utah residents regarding the attractions of their state and the economic development benefits of tourism for the state, and facilitated efforts of improving the business climate for tourism-related businesses in Utah.
Nominations with strong recommendations from peers and coworkers within the tourism industry identify individuals for their long-standing dedication to improving their communities, engagement in generating and advocating for funding and community initiatives and helping stimulate tourism and stakeholder business.