Pierre, SD, USA / DRGNews
Jan 22, 2021 6:43 AM
Yesterday (Jan. 21), South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Tourism presented awards to tourism industry members and businesses, honoring their ingenuity & diligence, extraordinary customer service practices, and lifetime commitment to tourism.
The prestigious Ben Black Elk Award honors an individual who makes outstanding contributions to the state’s visitor industry. This lifetime achievement award went to Susan Johnson of Deadwood. Johnson was the first Secretary of the Department of Tourism and paved the way for many initiatives and programs that are ongoing today.
“Susan began her career in tourism in 1981 and, for the past 40 years, she has tirelessly served the industry. Her list of accomplishments is long and distinguished, and she’s not done yet,” said Noem. The Governor mentioned Susan’s impact on making the Mickelson Trail possible and Susan’s involvement in establishing the state slogan