AUBURN-OPELIKA, Ala. —Auburn-Opelika Tourism received multiple honors at the Southeast Tourism Society Connections Conference, held Sept. 9–11 in Richmond, Virginia, recognizing the organization for marketing excellence, industry leadership and professional development.
The Auburn-Opelika Tourism communications and marketing team, led by Cat Bobo, director of communications and marketing, received the Best Niche Marketing Award in the 2026 Shining Example Awards for its “Your Next Championship Starts Here” sports planner video campaign.
The campaign was designed specifically for sports event planners, rights holders and tournament directors and featured Sports Development Director Anthony Terling and Sports Sales Manager Awbrey Mitchell. Rather than focusing solely on facilities, the campaign used humor, personality and storytelling to introduce planners to the people behind Auburn-Opelika’s sports tourism experience. The Best Niche Marketing Award recognizes creative, targeted marketing initiatives that demonstrate strategic implementation and measurable success.
Auburn-Opelika Tourism President and CEO Robyn Bridges was also honored as a Southeast Tourism Society Shooting Star, a recognition celebrating tourism professionals for their leadership, dedication and impact on the industry.
Rounding out the organization’s recognitions, Karen Gilmore was recognized for completing the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College program and earning her Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) designation. Gilmore completed the three-year professional development program and was recognized alongside the Marketing College Class of 2026.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team for bringing creativity, commitment and excellence to everything they do,” said Robyn Bridges, president and CEO of Auburn-Opelika Tourism. “From an award-winning campaign to professional achievement and industry leadership, each of these honors reflects the talent and commitment that make Auburn-Opelika Tourism so special.”
The three honors reflect Auburn-Opelika Tourism’s continued commitment to creative destination marketing, industry leadership and investing in the professional development of its team.
For more information about Auburn-Opelika Tourism, visit aotourism.com.
About Auburn-Opelika Tourism
Auburn-Opelika Tourism is a non-profit service organization driving economic impact and improving the quality of life in our community through tourism and travel. For more information, visit aotourism.com.