DES MOINES, Iowa (October 8, 2025) – Catch Des Moines honored the best of Greater Des Moines businesses and individuals for their support of the tourism and hospitality industry on Wednesday at Prairie Meadows Racetrack, Casino, and Hotel in Altoona.
Winners were recognized at the 2025 Catch Des Moines Annual Celebration, an event that celebrates success in bringing visitors to the metro through conventions, events, and leisure travel. Businesses and individuals received awards for their work in making an impact across various tourism sectors throughout Catch Des Moines’ fiscal year, from July 2024 through June 2025.
“Our Annual Celebration is about celebrating the impact that tourism has on our community,” said Catch Des Moines President and CEO Trina Flack. “From our venues and small businesses to our community leaders, there are so many partners involved in securing events and enhancing how visitors experience our city. We’re proud to honor those who go above and beyond to make these events and experiences possible.”
The awards honored the following individuals and organizations:
- Tourism Champion: Hoyt Sherman Place
- This honoree’s dedication to hospitality and community partnerships brings people together and puts Greater Des Moines on center stage time and again.
- Spirit of Hospitality: Julia Borchardt, West Des Moines Marriott
- This honoree is committed to hospitality and goes the extra mile to create a memorable experience for the many who visit Greater Des Moines.
- Partner Champion: Whatcha Smokin’ BBQ + Brew
- This partner embodies the spirit of collaboration, consistently stepping up to support events and elevate the visitor experience.
- Community Champion: Susan Skeries, Windsor Heights City Council
- Whether a group or individual, this community contributor has made Greater Des Moines a better place to live, visit, and work.
- Catch Champion: Judge Odell McGhee II and Judge Henry Hamilton III, (National Bar Association)
- This champion helps bring more visitors to Greater Des Moines through meetings and events.
- Catch Des Moines Legacy Award: Greg Edwards
- This honors a leader whose lifelong dedication has elevated the region’s reputation as a destination and inspired pride throughout the community.
For photos of the event or additional information about the awards, please contact Ben Handfelt at ben@catchdesmoines.com or (515) 699-3433.
About Catch Des Moines
The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, collectively known as Catch Des Moines, is the official destination marketing organization promoting and representing Greater Des Moines to leisure travelers and meeting/sports planners. Our focus is to increase visitors to the metro and elevate the visitor experience to drive economic success and enhance the quality of life in the 14 local Greater Des Moines communities we represent. For more information, visit catchdesmoines.com.