Visit Nebraska Recognizes Frontline Employee Award-Winners
PRESS RELEASE
FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Ben Jones at 402-326-9941, or [email protected]
LINCOLN, Neb. - (May 9, 2025) - In celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, Visit Nebraska recognized seven employees from across the state with the Outstanding Frontline Employee Award.
This award honors individuals who go above and beyond while interacting with travelers and locals. They strive to enhance visitors' experiences and demonstrate high levels of customer service and pride in their destination. All winners were nominated by local communities and tourism industry partners.
Victoria Dalton
River's Edge Convention Center (Columbus)
Victoria is recognized for making everyone around her feel supported, seen and inspired. She's taken on her role of Front Desk Manager with grace, strength and an incredible heart and has grown as a leader, listening deeply, communicating clearly and lifting up the whole team. She has turned challenges into opportunities and the front desk into a strong team. Her patience and dedication has helped to create an environment for the entire hotel and venue that is organized, thriving and full of people who feel valued.
Sebastiana Vargas
Holiday Inn Express & Suites (Norfolk)
An integral part of the hotel's team since 2021, Sebastiana's dedication and exceptional service, warm demeanor and unwavering commitment have made an impression on guests, many of which state that they love her. The hotel's reputation for friendly staff, clean rooms and comfortable accommodations often result in Sebastiana being mentioned by name in guest reviews for how she goes above and beyond to provide an atmosphere of hospitality with friendly service as Front Desk Clerk.
Jeremy Kirby
Divots Brewery (Norfolk)
As the driving force behind Divots Brewery, Jeremy has transformed the local craft beer scene into something truly special. His commitment to quality, innovation and customer service is evident in every pint poured and every guest interaction. Under his guidance, Divots Brewery has become more than just a place to grab a drink - it's a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike feel at home. Jeremy brings a unique blend of hospitality expertise and entrepreneurial spirit. His hands-on approach combined with forward-thinking strategies have been vital, and his genuine care for people sets him apart, whether greeting customers by name, mentoring staff or supporting local causes.
Brenda John
Lincoln Children's Museum (Lincoln)
Through her empathy, excitement and unwavering commission to the museum's mission, Brenda consistently creates an environment where every visitor - from newborns to seniors - feels valued and included. From the moment guests walk through the doors, she radiates warmth and enthusiasm in greeting guests, seeing to their needs and elevating their experience. She is also an advocate for the city and state, always willing and ready to offer recommendations on the area and the state for travelers and visitors. She has a reputation among her colleagues for a warm heart, supportive team member, and positive attitude.
Roxanne Smith
Nebraska State Capitol (Lincoln)
In her longtime role showing off the State Capitol building to visitors, Roxanne is a true Nebraska gem. While many people visiting the building admire its captivating architecture, a real highlight is listening to Roxanne. With her keen eye and deep knowledge, she guides gusts through the building's passageways, revealing hidden treasures. As tour guides like her will tell you, there are many hidden gems throughout the Capitol, like small details in mosaics, tucked-aways staircases and historic artifacts many visitors overlook. Her work has ensured that countless travelers have come away with a deeper and fuller understanding of one of the state's most unique landmarks.
Bobbie Roshone
Niobrara National Scenic River (Valentine)
As Program Manager for Interpretation, Education & Volunteers, Bobbie always puts the visitor first and is upbeat and ready to help. She assists visitors in trip planning and highlights the many attractions in the area while engaging with visitors to learn about their interests and share her knowledge. She engages kids in interactive programs including night sky, angler, paleontology and sound and is consistently conscious of accessibility needs and aids.
Christine Eipperle
Visit Omaha (Omaha)
In her role as Visitor Services Manager, Christine exemplifies unwavering commitment, exceptional service, relationship-building and community engagement. Her welcoming demeanor and strong customer service skills are an asset to assisting visitors, and her degree in American Sign Language helps to ensure all guests feel welcomed, understood and informed. Her strong communication and passion for community have helped to strengthen the tourism industry and Omaha community, and her impact is felt not just by the visitors she welcome, but but the volunteers she supports and the community partners she uplifts.
