The Ruston Lincoln Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau recently announced that the Louisiana Tech University College of Education has won the 2017 Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award. The College of Education made noteworthy contributions to the tourism economy of Lincoln Parish in 2017 by working to host the National Field Experience Conference (NFEC) and hosting multiple regional professional development institutes, as well as assisting Dr. Pedro Derosa host the Louisiana Academy of Sciences Annual Meeting. These events showcased Ruston & Lincoln Parish to educators, students, and parents from across the United States. Throughout 2017, the College of Education has also held many seminars, training programs, and competitions that put Ruston on display for visitors from across the country. “I’m so pleased to have the Louisiana Tech University College of Education honored with this award,” says Travis Napper, CVB President/CEO. “Over the past year, the College of Education was a true example of how working with our local universities can put our destination on display to visitors from all over.” The impact of these events was felt not only by hotels and on campus, but across the city as well. Local shops, restaurants, and attractions were included on itineraries for conference and meeting attendees. “Hosting these types of meetings is a great opportunity because it benefits the university, its faculty and staff, and also provides a chance to showcase Louisiana’s College Town,” continues Napper. “I’m very appreciative and excited about the College receiving this award,” says Don Schillinger, Dean of the College of Education. “We’re honored to be recognized, but thankful for the opportunity to work closely with the Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Ruston to host unique and exciting events and experiences including conferences, teacher trainings, meetings, and special events that bring individuals from across the country to our gem of a town. We’re grateful for all the Ruston Street shops and restaurant owners for their amazing support of our visitors. Due to College of Education conferences and events over the past year, Lincoln Parish and the City of Ruston hosted visitors from over 35 states and Canada. Those visitors continue to speak fondly of the hospitality of our community.” The Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award began in 1999 to reward and recognize members of the community who provided a significant benefit to the tourism economy of Lincoln Parish during the past year. This award will be presented to Dr. Don Schillinger and Dr. Amy Vessel representing the College of Education at the Ruston Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet Jan. 16 at the Ruston Civic Center.