National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition highlighting the pivotal role that travel plays in creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. On May 7, Visit The Woodlands hosted a Hospitality Appreciation Night to recognize industry leaders who have demonstrated exceptional care in welcoming guests to The Woodlands. The 2026 Tourism Award Honorees received a trophy and a shoutout during the Spring Concert Series at Market Street.
Katrina Lockler accepts Visit The Woodlands' Hospitality Award
Visit The Woodlands' pop-up at Market Street for NTTW
THE IMPACT OF TOURISM
Whether guests are here for business or pleasure, their visits directly benefit the local economy. More than 50% of The Woodlands Township's budget is fueled by hotel and sales tax collections, which are generated by visitor spending at The Woodlands' hotels, shops, and restaurants. The Township then uses these funds, not only to maintain and develop this beautiful community, but to secure one of the lowest property tax rates in the state. Altogether, this system improves the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
TOURISM BY THE NUMBERS
Travel and tourism are critical components of the Texas economy. They affect more than just the leisure and hospitality industries; they impact every sector from transportation to finance, real estate, insurance, and more. Here are just a few of the ways that tourism has benefited The Woodlands:
- Generates $555.4 million in direct spending by visitors
- Employs 4,300 people in the travel and tourism industry
- Produces $248.8 million for owners and employees of local hospitality businesses
- Collects $48.8 million in tax revenue to elevate the community
- Hotel tax collections reached a record $10.3 million in 2025
*Source: Travel Texas, Texas Research Dashboard (2024) and NTTW proclamation.
VISIT THE WOODLANDS POP-UP
Visit The Woodlands recognized its 2026 Tourism Award Honorees at Hospitality Industry Appreciation Night on May 7 at 5:30 p.m. Taking place during the Spring Concert Series at Market Street, attendees were lavished with an evening of live music and heartfelt speeches. The team also hosted a pop-up booth onsite to share information about Visit The Woodlands, NTTW, and the impact of tourism in The Woodlands—as well as distribute complimentary swag items like sunglasses, fans, and miniature trolleys.
Hospitality Award Honorees: Cassondra Woodburn, Bethany Ables, Ilyssa Berkowitz, Guillermo Pereira, and Katrina Lockler
AWARD PRESENTATIONS
National Travel and Tourism Week, established by the U.S. Travel Association, unites the travel industry each year to recognize the essential role travel plays in powering the economy and strengthening communities. The theme for 2026 is "POSTMARKED: ESSENTIAL," highlighting the fundamental truth that travel is not optional. It is essential to the U.S. economy and way of life. Take a look at this year's Hospitality Award Honorees, nominated by their supervisors and peers:
Hotel Sales
CASSONDRA WOODBURN
As Group Sales Manager at Hyatt Centric The Woodlands, Cassondra consistently elevates the standard of excellence within our property and the broader tourism community. Her impact is rooted in both measurable performance and the meaningful relationships she has worked tirelessly to build. Through her strategic and proactive approach to group sales, she has already exceeded her 2025 booking goals and has made significant progress in surpassing her 2026 targets. Beyond her individual achievements, Cassondra is a collaborative team member who contributes to a positive culture and shared success. Her drive and ability to connect make her a true leader in tourism and hospitality.
Hotel Front Desk
GUILLERMO PEREIRA
As Assistant Room Operations Manager at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, Guillermo consistently goes above and beyond for both our guests and our team. He takes the time to learn something unique about each guest, then uses this knowledge to personalize their stay. Whether he’s remembering details about their trip or learning a few words in their native language, he always makes a warm and lasting impression. You can ask him anything about travel—his knowledge of different countries and cultures is impressive—and he is eager to share thoughtful recommendations. Most importantly, Guillermo truly cares. His dedication, leadership, and passion for service elevate the overall guest experience. He is an outstanding ambassador and highly deserving of this recognition.
Lee Funderburk and the team from Amrina
Restaurant General Manager
LEE FUNDERBURK
Over the past three years, Lee has played a key role in helping Amrina grow into one of the most recognized and respected dining destinations in The Woodlands. As General Manager, he has displayed an uncanny ability to remember names and preferences, ensuring that every guest feels genuinely seen and valued the moment they walk through the door. His intuition for hospitality allows him to anticipate their needs before they even ask, creating a level of service that feels both effortless and deeply personal. Even his staff feel like VIPs because he always puts their success first. This supportive work environment translates directly into the exceptional service that The Woodlands community deserves.
Restaurant Waitstaff
BETHANY ABLES
For seven years, Beth Ables has been an integral part of the guest experience at BLEND, earning a reputation as one of the most beloved and recognizable hospitality professionals in The Woodlands. As Bar & Events Manager, Beth has an extraordinary ability to remember preferences, celebrate milestones, and build genuine relationships that keep guests returning time and again. Her creativity behind the bar is equally remarkable. She has developed a reputation for crafting unique cocktails inspired by the personalities and stories of BLEND's regular guests, even naming signature drinks after them. Through her dedication, innovation, and genuine passion for hospitality, Beth Ables embodies the spirit of service that makes The Woodlands a destination worth returning to again and again.
Destination Support
KATRINA LOCKLER
As Floor Manager at The Woodlands Children's Museum, Katrina creates a welcoming, seamless, and memorable experience for every guest who enters through our doors. As the first point of contact, she sets the tone for each visit, greeting families with professionalism and genuine enthusiasm. She skillfully manages admissions; answers questions; and provides guidance on exhibits, programs, and events, helping guests to make the most of their visit. Katrina also leads and trains front-line staff, modeling best practices in problem-solving and customer service. Through her leadership, attention to detail, and dedication to creating joyful experiences for thousands of families each year, Katrina plays a vital role in positioning the museum as a premier family destination and a model of hospitality excellence within The Woodlands.
Tourism Trailblazer
ILYSSA BERKOWITZ
At Landry's, Ilyssa is someone who elevates hospitality in every way. She is an exceptional partner to Visit The Woodlands, always quick to jump in and volunteer for activations and community events. She responds swiftly, collaborates generously, and always finds a way to secure private rooms or meeting space when groups need support. Her professionalism and reliability make her invaluable to our tourism ecosystem and a shining example of leadership in hospitality.
