For 42 years and counting, the U.S. tourism industry has celebrated National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) to highlight the power of travel on local economies. This year, Visit The Woodlands took the tradition a step further by hosting a Hospitality Industry Appreciation Night. The 2025 Tourism Award Honorees were recognized during the Spring Concert Series at Market Street on May 8, where hundreds of attendees cheered them on. Take a look at their nominations!
HOTEL | FRONT DESK
MEREDITH PETERSON - MARRIOTT RESIDENCE INN / MARKET STREET
Meredith Peterson goes above and beyond with her exceptional customer service at Marriott Residence Inn / Market Street. She always greets customers with a warm smile and positive attitude, making everyone feel right at home. She doesn’t just meet expectations—she exceeds them. Whether it’s helping a customer find exactly what they need or just brightening someone’s day, Meredith always goes the extra mile. She’s an absolute star, and she truly deserves recognition for all her hard work.
Jose Perez and Nick Wolda celebrate the 2024 TSAE Opening Reception
RESTAURANT | GENERAL MANAGER
JOSE PEREZ - SIXTY VINES
Jose, General Manager of Sixty Vines, exemplifies the spirit of hospitality and leadership that makes The Woodlands a premier destination. Known for his hands-on management style and genuine care for both guests and staff, he consistently delivers experiences that leave a lasting impression. His collaborative approach was especially evident during the TSAE New Ideas Conference, when Sixty Vines served as a key host location for the opening night reception. From concept to execution, Jose went above and beyond to ensure every detail reflected the prestige of the event. His flexibility, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence made him a valued partner and a major contributor to the event’s success. Jose is a shining example of what makes our tourism and hospitality industry so special.
Visit The Woodlands surprises Van Silliman with his 2025 NTTW Hospitality Award at The Waterway Marriott
HOTEL | SALES
VAN SILLIMAN - THE WOODLANDS WATERWAY MARRIOTT
Van is truly the epitome of hospitality; his southern charm and welcoming personality make him a treasured member of The Woodlands Waterway Marriott hotel family. He has been an integral player on the team for almost 15 years and is the driving force on why so many groups choose us.
A huge contributor to the hotel's success year after year is Van's ability to truly engage with individuals on both a professional and personal level, from understanding the program's expectations to meeting guests' needs so genuinely that he almost feels like an old friend. No request is too small or too large for him. He's always willing to go the extra mile, ensuring their glass is never empty (attend a gala with him!) or even pulling his own car around to take a client on a tour of the neighborhood. Van Silliman is one of a kind; he truly exemplifies excellence in hospitality in The Woodlands.
RESTAURANT | BARTENDER / WAITSTAFF
RUBEN MENDOZA - HYATT CENTRIC THE WOODLANDS
Ruben Mendoza is the heart of hospitality at Hyatt Centric The Woodlands and a true embodiment of stewardship. As the Event Services Lead—and one of the original team members since opening—Ruben has played a critical role in shaping the guest experience and setting the standard of excellence. A seasoned hospitality professional, Ruben wears many hats with grace and consistency. From flawlessly executing banquet events to supporting room service, overseeing breakfast in the restaurant, and leading the Event Services Team, his impact is felt across every corner of the hotel.
No matter the task, Ruben approaches it with professionalism, care, and positivity. Guests regularly comment on his attentiveness and enthusiasm, while staff look to him as a trusted mentor and calming presence. His attention to detail ensures each event is executed flawlessly, and his commitment to teamwork strengthens every department he touches. For his unwavering commitment and the countless ways that he enhances the guest experience, Ruben Mendoza is a truly deserving nominee for the Visit The Woodlands Tourism Award.
Ruben Mendoza accepts his 2025 NTTW Hospitality Award
Kim Lowe, Sterling Scott, Nick Wolda, and Elizabeth Eddins celebrate Scott's 2025 NTTW Hospitality Award
TOURISM SUPPORT | VALET
STERLING SCOTT - THE WOODLANDS RESORT, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON
Sterling, Valet Attendant at The Woodlands Resort, exemplifies exceptional service with his friendly personality and outstanding care for others. From the moment guests arrive, Sterling greets them with a warm smile and ensures a seamless experience. His ability to manage even the busiest times with grace and professionalism leaves a lasting impression. He goes beyond the call of duty to make each guest feel valued and welcomed, making him a standout representative of The Woodlands’ hospitality. Sterling's commitment is a true asset to the team and a testament to the excellence of our destination.
Jennifer Moore takes the stage to accept her 2025 NTTW Hospitality Award
TOURISM TRAILBLAZER | SPECIAL EVENTS MANAGER
JENNIFER MOORE - BOSSCAT KITCHEN + LIBATIONS
Jennifer Moore embodies the spirit of The Woodlands through her passion for connection, collaboration, and community. As the Special Events Manager of Bosscat Kitchen and the founder of her own event planning company called Events by Jen, she is a driving force behind countless events that bring people together. Recognizing the need for stronger industry connection, Jennifer took the initiative to create a monthly networking event for local sales managers, fostering relationships, sharing ideas, and strengthening cohesion among hospitality professionals. A trailblazer in every sense, Jennifer Moore is a champion for the continued success of The Woodlands as a vibrant destination.
