Special to Iredell Free News

N.C. Sen. Vickie Sawyer was recently honored as the 2023 Legislator of the Year during the N.C. Travel Industry Association Leadership Conference in Raleigh.

During the inaugural dinner, attended by industry leaders and dignitaries, Sawyer was recognized for her role in enacting the Hotel Safety Act and her support of NCTIA’s workforce development initiatives within her district. 

“I am deeply humbled and honored to be recognized as the 2023 Legislator of the Year by the esteemed North Carolina travel and tourism industry,” Sawyer said. “Together, we are fostering an environment that not only attracts visitors from far and wide but also showcases the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that makes North Carolina truly exceptional.”

Cindy Sutton, executive director of the Statesville Convention & Visitors Bureau (SCVB), called Sawyer “a true champion” of tourism.

“The SCVB is thankful for legislative leadership that listens to our concerns and works in partnership with us to enact policies that enable continued growth,” Sutton said.