Cayuga County’s tourism leader has been awarded the highest individual honor in New York’s tourism industry.
Karen Kühl, Executive Director of the Cayuga County Office of Tourism, has been named the recipient of the 2025 NYSTIA Excellence in Leadership: Career/Lifetime Achievement Award, the New York State Tourism Industry Association announced.
The award recognizes Kühl’s leadership and her commitment to inclusive tourism, as well as her success in promoting Cayuga County’s cultural and historic identity. Her work includes advancing Travel Unity certification, promoting Harriet Tubman’s legacy, and contributing to the creation of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad New York Byway.
“This is the most prestigious individual recognition granted annually by NYSTIA,” the organization stated, adding that her efforts serve as “case studies in value-driven destination stewardship.”
Kühl will receive the award at the NYSTIA Tourism Excellence Awards ceremony on September 11 in Lake George.
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