The Blount Partnership announced today that Director of Tourism Kim Mitchell was named “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year” by HospitalityTN. The award was given during the Stars of the Industry Gala at the Governor’s Conference on September 16, 2021, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Mitchell has served as the director of tourism for the Blount Partnership and the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority since 2014.
The “Women in TN Tourism & Hospitality Leader of the Year” award distinguishes a female professional leader in the hospitality industry. The recipient is a role model with noteworthy accomplishments, leadership roles and volunteer positions.
HospitalityTN is a not-for-profit trade association that represents the hospitality and tourism industry in Tennessee. It highlights lodging and dining establishments in the state, as well as other businesses involved in the industry.
The organization plays a role in benefitting the businesses by protecting their interests and managing issues brought on by the political, legislative, regulatory and economic forces that impact the industry.
For the past 32 years, HospitalityTN has recognized outstanding employees and organizations through their Stars of the Industry Awards Program.
Mitchell received a degree in hotel and restaurant management with a minor in marketing at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
She began her career in the hospitality industry at the Knoxville Airport Hilton and later served at The Garden Inn in Oak Ridge followed by the McNabb Center.
Through her work with the Blount Partnership and SMTDA, Mitchell has contributed to increasing travel and tourism through marketing strategy and execution. She excels in garnering local, regional and national media attention.
During the pandemic, Mitchell took initiative to ensure safety measures were met when promoting outdoor activities. The #CloserToHome campaign was launched to promote hyperlocal tourism and encourage day trips and shorter vacation stays in “your own backyard.”
Mitchell is a leader in many organizations. She serves on the board of directors at Townsend-Cades Cove Business Alliance, Maryville Downtown Association and Knoxville-Smoky Mountains Greenway Trails. In addition, she holds leadership positions with Tennessee Main Streets – Downtown Maryville, Middle Tennessee Tourism Council and the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.
“We’re proud of Kim’s hard work, leadership and her expertise in hospitality, marketing and event management,” said Blount Partnership President Bryan Daniels. “She possesses a passion and enthusiasm for Tennessee and Blount County. We congratulate her on her many accolades and dedication to raising the bar and ensuring Blount County is a top destination for travel.”