As the U.S. prepares to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week May 3-9, industry leaders gathered Wednesday at the State House for Hospitality Day, hosted by the state’s hospitality industry and the South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association.
“Today is about recognizing what powers South Carolina’s $31 billion tourism industry – and that’s our people and our places,” Duane Parrish, director of the South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT) said. “Our people create the experiences visitors remember. It’s the warm smiles, friendly greetings, and shared stories, all steeped in the authentic Southern charm we are so well known for… Our places provide the foundation for visitor experiences, serving as both treasured destinations and powerful economic drivers.”
The 2026 Hospitality Employee of the Year (HEY) Award was presented to Angela Livingston, Pre-Arrival Specialist from Marriott’s Ocean Watch Villas in Myrtle Beach. The HEY award is coordinated and co-sponsored by the South Carolina Area Tourism Regions (SCATR) and SCPRT. Les McCall, executive director of Lake Hartwell Country and President of SCATR, presented the award.
“Angela Livingston exemplifies exceptional guest care and hospitality,” Rajka Osim, general manager, Marriott’s Ocean Watch Villas, shared in Angela’s nomination. “As a Pre-Arrival Specialist, she is the first point of contact for every visiting family, ensuring their needs are understood and met long before they arrive. Angela exemplifies outstanding service and dedication to the hospitality industry through her professionalism, reliability, and heartfelt commitment to both guests and the community.”
Joy Raintree, director of South Carolina State Parks, recognized South Carolina State Parks’ Rangers of the Year:
- Mountain Region: Woody Goodwin, Croft State Park, Spartanburg
- Lakes Region: Daniel Bailey, Lake Greenwood State Park, Greenwood
- Sandhills Region: Georgia VanHeusen, Barnwell State Park, Barnwell
- Upper Coastal Region: Joshua Haney, Huntington Beach State Park, Murrells Inlet
- Lower Coastal Region: Candra Workman, May Forest State Park, James Island
“Our Rangers of the Year represent the best of the best in the Park Service,” Raintree said. “Every day in the life of a Ranger looks different, and this career path requires equal parts creativity and professionalism… passion and compassion. We are in the business of protecting iconic landscapes, sharing important stories and ultimately, making treasured memories. I’m so proud of these Rangers, and the greater team that they represent, for their commitment to stewardship and service and the way they lead by example.”
Speakers also highlighted the importance of the state’s tourism assets in shaping South Carolina’s identity as a destination, from cities and small towns to unique natural resources. They explained that tourism and the jobs, growth and tax dollars it brings, thrives where beauty is treated as an asset worth protecting.
Recognizing the expanding role South Carolina State Parks play in preserving the state’s heritage, fostering conservation and driving tourism, SCPRT has requested the largest investment of state dollars in agency history this budget cycle. The Play it Forward initiative asks for $185 million to support critical infrastructure needs in State Parks.
Neil Paul, executive director of Visit Anderson, shared the impact South Carolina State Parks have as essential tourism products that attract visitors to every corner of the state.
“In Anderson County, the lakes, landscapes and outdoor experiences that draw visitors are the result of thoughtful strategy, long‑term stewardship and smart investment,” Paul said. “When we care for our natural assets, they continue to deliver meaningful economic impact for our communities. SCPRT’s Play it Forward budget request is critical to the future of South Carolina State Parks. Protecting and strengthening the state’s most treasured places for the next generation requires deliberate stewardship powered by sustained investment through the state budget.”
Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.
