MONROE - Each year Wisconsin's tourism industry honors individuals and organizations for their commitment to excellence, achievements, dedication and leadership, which have an impact on Wisconsin's travel and hospitality industry.

Green County Welcome Center and National Historic Cheesemaking Center Executive Director Donna Douglas was among five individuals nominated to receive the Legacy Award.

The Legacy Award is presented to an individual who has shown a long-lasting and permanent contribution to the tourism industry over the years. Nominees for this award must have 25 years or more of distinguished service to the tourism industry.

Starting as a member of the Green County Board of Supervisors, Douglas has gone on to serve an illustrious 25-year career in the Wisconsin tourism industry. She has held positions all over Green County and southwest Wisconsin, including the Green County Tourism Committee and president of the Hidden Valleys of Southwest Wisconsin board. She also served on the Circle Wisconsin Board, promoting group tour destinations, attractions and lodging in southern Wisconsin and the entire state. In each position, Douglas has been a constant innovator, inspiration and advocate for the community, and her perseverance and dedication to Green County and southwest Wisconsin have led to a noted boost in tourism.

Nominees were recognized at the Governor's Awards Dinner held recently at Wisconsin Dells. Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefish also recognized the tourism industry's finest at the Governor's Tourism Nominee Breakfast. About 1,000 people representing the tourism industry attended the three-day event. Also attending the Governor's Conference from Monroe wereGreen County Tourism Coordinator Noreen Rueckert and Mary Ann Hanna.