More than 450 business and civic leaders gathered today at the Charleston Gaillard Center for Explore Charleston’s annual meeting. Attendees enjoyed a special conversation between featured guest Neil Vogul, CEO of Dotdash Meredith, and Jacqui Gifford, Editor in Chief of Travel + Leisure. Awards were presented to seven recipients for distinguished service to local tourism development.
As CEO of Dotdash Meredith, Vogel leads the largest digital and print publisher in America. The company’s over 40 iconic brands include PEOPLE, The Spruce, Allrecipes, InStyle, REAL SIMPLE, Investopedia, Verywell, Better Homes & Gardens, Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure and Southern Living.
Vogel spoke about the parallels between the evolving media landscape and the travel industry. He noted that the Charleston area is well positioned thanks to its welcoming spirit and diverse attributes that offer something for all visitors “throughout the city, region and state.”
In his opening remarks, Dan Blumenstock, Chairman of Explore Charleston's Board of Governors and Director of Hotels for Lowcountry Hotels, spoke to how essential the travel and hospitality industry is to the region’s economy, including job creation, local business support and tax revenue generation. He challenged attendees to “double down on hospitality”, reinforcing the importance of focusing on the destination’s renowned welcoming spirit in an increasingly competitive global travel industry.
The travel industry in the Greater Charleston Area grew in economic impact to a record $14.03 billion in 2024, which was produced by a modest increase in total visitors, combined with more substantial growth in average visitor expenditure. Tourism also continued to account for a very sizable share of the overall economy - 23.5% of all sales - and a record 54,900 of Greater Charleston Area residents were employed within the region’s hospitality and tourism sector.
Helen Hill, President and CEO of Explore Charleston recognized seven industry leaders with annual awards.
The 2025 Lawrimore-Craven Leadership Award was presented to Mayor Phillip Pounds for outstanding leadership in government and his committed service to the quality growth of the hospitality industry.
Golden Pineapple Awards have been given annually since Explore Charleston’s inception in 1985. The 2025 recipients included:
- Dan Blumenstock, recognized for returning as Chairman of Explore Charleston’s Board of Governors and his leadership and dedication to the tourism industry.
- William Howle, recognized for 10 years of outstanding service to the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and dedication to the quality growth of the hospitality industry.
- Jonathan Kish and Keith Benjamin, recognized for their work on the Responsible Hospitality Reform Alliance and ongoing dedication to strengthening the hospitality industry.
- Frank Fredericks, recognized for his impactful role with the College of Charleston and his continued dedication to the growth and success of the tourism industry.
- Spencer Pryor, recognized for his role with the Charleston Regional Aviation Authority and his dedication to supporting the tourism industry.