Utah Tourism Hall of Fame
Honoring Industry Legends
The Utah Tourism Hall of Fame is presented by the Utah Tourism Industry Association and the Utah Office of Tourism. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected annually for contributions made to Utah’s tourism industry at the state, regional, or local levels. The Hall of Fame was first introduced in 1985 and has annually recognized individuals who have elevated life in Utah through their leadership in tourism marketing, stewardship, and destination management.
Nomination Process
The Utah Tourism Hall of Fame accepts nominations each spring. After the nomination period closes, a selection committee comprised of tourism industry leaders and previous Hall of Fame inductees reviews all submissions and selects the year's honorees.
Inductees are recognized during the Utah Tourism Conference at the Hall of Fame Awards Breakfast, held on the Friday of the conference.
Olivier Barthez
Utah Office of Tourism
Olivier serves as a dedicated Account Manager for the Utah Office of Tourism for 18 years. He was instrumental in the successful launch of daily non-stop Delta flight Paris to Salt Lake City. Through Olivier's deep knowledge of Utah and consistent efforts, France has become the number one EU market in visitor spending. He consistently dedicates time in Utah to personally learn about and effectively promote each area through tailored, specific campaigns.
Kym Buttschardt
Roosters Brewing Company & Restaurant Group
As owner, Kym has helmed Roosters Brewing Company & Restaurant Group for 30 years, which also include the Union Grill, B Street, and The Coop, exemplifying the power of collaborative growth while receiving several awards and recognitions. Kym has been a key leadership figure in the revitalization of Ogden's 25th Street, significantly contributing her time, resources, and talents to its renewal. She also chaired the UOT cooperative marketing committee for many years, reviewing thousands of applications, awarding 657 applicants over $45 million and encouraged a mentorship environment that consistently drew positive feedback from applicants.
Lance Syrett
Ruby's Inn
Lance has provided extensive leadership and support to state-wide tourism organizations for 17 years, serving on multiple, influential boards. He exercises significant political influence as a longtime tourism advocate, regularly traveling to the State Legislature to testify in committee meetings and championing industry initiatives. Lance is recognized as a cornerstone of Utah's tourism industry, cultivating strong relationships with tour operators to promote the entire state effectively. He successfully implements sustainability initiatives, including "Give Back to the Park" generating a $1 donation from Ruby Inn guests to support Bryce Canyon National Park.