Wilmington, N.C., May 13, 2026: The Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau [CVB] is pleased to announce the 2026 winners of its annual Tourism Star and Tourism Legacy awards. Kim Hufham, President/CEO of the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority [TDA] d/b/a Wilmington and Beaches CVB, presented the awards during the organization’s annual Travel Rally breakfast and celebration, that was held on Wednesday, May 6th at the Cameron Art Museum.
“Each year during National Travel and Tourism Week, the CVB organizes a Travel Rally event to celebrate the dedicated people who work in New Hanover County’s hospitality industry. As part of the celebration, we recognize individuals whose extraordinary contributions help to make Wilmington and our island beaches the best of the Carolina coast,” states Kim Hufham. “This year’s Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Award honorees are John Andrews, owner/operator of South Beach Grill in Wrightsville Beach, and Cassandra and Dan Tollens, who own four hotel properties in Carolina and Kure beaches. The CVB also presented 2026 Tourism Star Awards to three deserving hospitality employees: Albert Williams, banquet manager for Embassy Suites Hilton Wilmington Riverside; Bailey Kaufman, program manager of Sea Turtle Camp for Wrightsville Beach Surf Camp, and Lauren Donald, registrar for the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Each winner demonstrates hospitality excellence.”
Tourism Star Awards
Established in 2017, the Tourism Star award recognizes hospitality and tourism industry professionals who demonstrate pride and commitment to the hospitality industry and exemplify a selfless spirit of service and leadership that enhances the visitor experience. This year’s Tourism Star winners are:
Albert Williams, Banquet Manager for Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
Since joining the Embassy Suites when it opened in 2018, Albert has earned a reputation for creating exceptional visitor experiences by approaching every event with personal care, anticipating needs before they arise, and ensuring that every detail is handled with precision. Always willing to help where needed, Albert has built and mentored a respected banquet team that reflects his high standards and passion for hospitality. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to manage complex events seamlessly give planners, couples, and guests the confidence to fully enjoy their special occasions. Guests who associate their special moments with Albert’s exceptional customer service often praise his efforts. By consistently delivering memorable experiences, Albert leaves a lasting impression that positively showcases both the hotel and our destination.
Bailey Kaufman, Program Manager of Sea Turtle Camp for Wrightsville Beach Surf Camp
In the five years that Bailey Kaufman has worked for WB Surf Camp, she has become a cornerstone of the organization and an inspiring ambassador for our coastal community. Described by her supervisor as an “exceptional leader” and a true “spirit of the ocean,” Bailey coordinates and leads local and international programs that introduce campers and families to the beauty, ecology, and culture of our beaches. She consistently creates welcoming, memorable experiences through her warmth, professionalism, and ability to exceed expectations. Whether accommodating individual needs or solving last-minute challenges, Bailey’s positive attitude shines through. A seasoned surfer and passionate environmental steward, Bailey promotes respect for the coastline, appreciation for local culture, and care for the natural world. In her role as a program manager with WB Surf Camp and Sea Turtle Camp, Bailey helps turn first-time visitors into lifelong ambassadors for Wilmington and its beach communities.
Lauren Donald, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher Registrar, Visitor Services
A lifelong resident who began volunteering with the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher in the 7th grade, Lauren Donald’s early experience sparked a passion for the aquarium and our coast. Since then, she has served as a Special Activities instructor and now, as Registrar, coordinating programs and events for thousands of students and visitors through field trips, birthday parties, and special events. Lauren is often the first point of contact for guests, creating welcoming, memorable experiences through her enthusiasm, positivity, and dedication to service. She also supports community partnerships by connecting the aquarium with local businesses and attractions. Through her knowledge of Wilmington and its beaches, Lauren inspires visitors to explore local restaurants, parks, beaches, and attractions beyond the aquarium. Her ability to foster meaningful connections to the coast encourages repeat visitation and enhances Wilmington’s reputation as a premier coastal destination.
Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Awards
The Tourism Legacy Award was established in 2018 in honor of the late Jane Peterson, the CVB’s first executive director, to recognize visionary leadership and significant contributions to the hospitality industry. This year the Wilmington and Beaches CVB presented two Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Awards:
The 2026 Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Award was presented to hospitality leader John Andrews in recognition of more than 40 years of service shaping Wilmington and its island beaches into one of North Carolina’s premier coastal destinations. As owner and operator of South Beach Grill since 1997, John—alongside his wife Elaine—has built a beloved Wrightsville Beach institution known for exceptional hospitality, resilience, and community commitment. Through hurricanes, economic downturns, and even a global pandemic, South Beach Grill has remained a trusted and welcoming destination for visitors and locals alike.
After beginning his career in business and marketing, John discovered his true passion was hospitality and working with people. Following restaurant experience in New York, he relocated to Wilmington in 1994 to manage two restaurants for Atlantic Quest before opening South Beach Grill three years later. His hands-on leadership style and philosophy that “you are only as good as your last meal” created a culture focused on accountability, innovation, and guest satisfaction. An early champion of locally sourced dining that supports area fishermen, farmers, and small businesses, John has elevated the region’s culinary identity and strengthened the local economy.
Beyond the restaurant industry, John is a strong supporter of veterans, local charities and tourism initiatives. Recently, South Beach Grill earned the Department of Defense Patriotic Employer Award, in recognition of efforts made to support citizen warriors. John’s leadership has included service with the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority, Wrightsville Beach Marketing Advisory Committee, North Carolina Holiday Flotilla Board, and Wrightsville Beach Merchants Association. Today, John is also mentoring future hospitality professionals as an adjunct instructor at Cape Fear Community College in the Hospitality Management department. John Andrews has built a true legacy in tourism that has not only enhanced the visitor experience and strengthened the local economy but has also inspired future generations.
The 2026 Jane Peterson Tourism Legacy Award was also presented to Cassandra and Dan Tollens in recognition of their visionary leadership and transformative impact on hospitality in Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. In just a few short years, the Tollens have redefined what it means to create a tourism legacy by preserving and revitalizing the character of the island communities rather than replacing it. Through the thoughtful restoration of classic beach motels—including Seabirds Motel, Carolina Beach Motel, Carolina Beach Inn, and the Boardwalk Inn—they have preserved the nostalgic charm that defines the destination while modernizing amenities for today’s travelers. Their investment in these beloved mom-and-pop properties has strengthened the local hospitality industry and helped sustain the unique coastal identity visitors return to year after year. The Tollens also transformed the historic Sea Merchants property into the vibrant Carolina Beach Market & Deli.
Known for their hands-on approach to hospitality, Cassandra and Dan create deeply personal guest experiences built on warmth, authenticity, and community connection. Cassandra’s dedication to welcoming guests, offering local recommendations, and ensuring every visitor feels valued has fostered a loyal following of returning guests who often feel like extended family.
Their commitment extends beyond their businesses by serving as strong advocates for local tourism and economic development. Both Cassandra and Dan have represented Kure Beach Hotels on the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority Board. Through preservation, innovation, and heartfelt hospitality, Cassandra and Dan Tollens are creating a lasting legacy that will benefit future generations.
About Wilmington and Beaches CVB
The New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority [TDA], d/b/a Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau [CVB], markets and develops the county and its communities’ leisure and group travel experiences for economic growth and quality of place. Visit us online at www.WilmingtonAndBeaches.com.
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