WILMINGTON, N.C. – Heron Hospitality has been honored with the North Carolina Travel Industry Association (NCTIA) Tourism Excellence Award for a Business Organization, recognizing its outstanding contribution to statewide travel promotion.
Established in 1955 by Governor Luther Hodges, the North Carolina Travel Industry Association was created to consolidate resources and promote the state’s travel and tourism industry. Each year, NCTIA recognizes individuals and organizations that exemplify innovation, leadership, and dedication to enhancing North Carolina’s tourism economy. In 2024, visitors spent more than $36.7 billion in North Carolina, highlighting the essential role tourism continues to play in driving the state’s economic growth.
At the heart of this year’s recognition is Heron Hospitality’s meticulous renovation of The Harvey in Downtown New Bern. The Harvey now stands as one of Heron’s three signature properties, alongside Atlantis Lodge in Pine Knoll Shores and Pony Island Inn in Ocracoke. Each uniquely embodies the company’s commitment to authentic North Carolina experiences.
Together, these properties showcase Heron Hospitality’s dedication to revitalizing historic and iconic destinations while enhancing North Carolina’s statewide tourism appeal.
“This award is a reflection of our team’s passion for North Carolina, its people, its history, and its incredible sense of place,” said Charles Cushman, CEO of Heron Hospitality. “Our mission has always been to preserve that which makes each community unique while creating experiences that inspire travelers to explore the best of our state. We’re honored that our work at The Harvey, Atlantis Lodge, and Pony Island Inn has been recognized as part of North Carolina’s tourism story.”
ABOUT HERON HOSPITALITY
Founded in 2016 and headquartered in New Bern, Heron Hospitality manages a growing portfolio of properties across the Carolinas. Trusted by stakeholders for its hospitality expertise and strategic business vision, Heron provides a wide range of services including hotel valuation and acquisition, ownership consulting, hotel and revenue management, branding, property development, and planning.