Jeanne Dailey Named 2014 Van Ness Butler Jr. Hospitality Award Recipient

The Walton County Tourist Development Council (TDC) named Jeanne Dailey as its 2014 Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award recipient. Dailey first experienced South Walton as a visitor to Grayton Beach in the early ‘80s. Her time spent there enjoying the pristine beaches, expansive dune system, coastal dune lakes and the quiet serenity along 30A, made a lifelong impression. 
 
Each year, the TDC recognizes a pioneer in the tourism industry with the prestigious award, bestowed upon a community member for his or her visionary leadership in helping to shape South Walton into a premier tourist destination. 
 
Jeanne Dailey has served as a passionate advocate for tourism in South Walton County for nearly three decades as Founder and CEO of Newman-Dailey Resort Properties. Her company represents premier vacation rentals throughout South Walton, including 35 residential and commercial associations. Jeanne has developed a corporate culture that encourages stellar customer service and the highest standards of ethics, integrity and professionalism.
 
Jeanne is passionate about community service and Newman-Dailey is an active community steward, supporting many non-profits and community causes. Jeanne also serves on numerous boards, including Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation helping children in need, Sacred Heart Hospital and Rotary Club of Destin. Within the tourism industry, she is an active member of the Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association.
 
“Jeanne has made a positive impact in the tourism industry in South Walton through her hard work and contributions. She exudes the spirit of this award and is the perfect recipient of this designation,” said Pamela Watkins, Director of Sales and Special Events for the Walton County TDC. 
  
Dailey joins a group of highly respected individuals who have been instrumental in shaping South Walton’s tourism industry and have taken a leadership role in responsible growth. The Van Ness Butler, Jr. Hospitality Award was named after and first presented to Van Ness Butler, Jr. in honor of his outstanding leadership and continuing his family’s legacy in making South Walton a leading, upscale beach destination.  
  
Each year, the Walton County TDC accepts nominations for individuals with an active role in the tourism industry. For more South Walton information and a list of past recipients, please visit www.VisitSouthWalton.com or contact the Visitor’s Center at (800) 822-6877. 
   
Located along a 26-mile stretch of Northwest Florida’s Coast, South Walton encompasses an unparalleled strand of 16 distinct beach neighborhoods, each with its own traditions, charm and visual style. South Walton is renowned for natural scenic beauty, turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches, including one of Travel + Leisure magazine’s “Best Beaches on Earth” for families in 2013. An upscale, yet casual place to unwind, South Walton is the place to rejuvenate and build lasting memories. It is here that visitors find their perfect beach. Learn more at www.VisitSouthWalton.com.