Debbie Braun Receives The Governor’s Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to Colorado Tourism

At the 2020 Colorado Tourism Office Governor’s Conference, held virtually live from Red Rocks stage on September 17, more than 800 travel and tourism officials attended online. At the conclusion of the event, the annual awards ceremony honored individuals and organizations that have greatly contributed to the advancement and innovation of Colorado’s tourism industry. Debbie Braun, IOM, CDME, President & CEO of Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA), received The Governor’s Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to Colorado Tourism,which is presented to an individual to recognize his/her tireless contributions to advancing the Colorado tourism industry. Braun was recognized for championing tourism in Aspen and the entire valley during her 20-year tenure at ACRA, 15 of those as the President & CEO. The award recognized her swift and ongoing response to the COVID-19 crisis with ACRA’s Recovery Toolbox. She was also recognized for work in securing dedicated marketing funding through the lodging tax that helps drive tourism in the entire Roaring Fork Valley. In addition, Braun was recognized for her foresight in pivoting ACRA from a Destination Marketing Organization to a Destination Management Organization, in light of efforts that ACRA is making to help drive responsible, sustainable tourism. Braun is the current DMA West Board President.