Myrtle Beach was well represented at this year’s Hospitality Day at the South Carolina State House, where industry leaders from across the state gathered to recognize the people and places driving South Carolina’s $31 billion tourism economy.
Angela Livingston, pre-arrival Specialist at Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes, was named the 2026 Hospitality Employee of the Year.
“Angela Livingston exemplifies exceptional guest care and hospitality,” Rajka Osim, General Manager, Marriott’s Ocean Watch Villas, shared in Angela’s nomination. “As a Pre-Arrival Specialist, she is the first point of contact for every visiting family, ensuring their needs are understood and met long before they arrive. Angela exemplifies outstanding service and dedication to the hospitality industry through her professionalism, reliability, and heartfelt commitment to both guests and the community.”
The recognition highlights the essential role frontline hospitality professionals play in shaping the visitor experience—often before a guest ever sets foot in the destination.
The Grand Strand was also represented among the state’s top park professionals. Joshua Haney of Huntington Beach State Park was recognized as the Upper Coastal Region Ranger of the Year by South Carolina State Parks.
In addition, Georgia VanHeusen was honored for her work at Barnwell State Park. She now serves at Myrtle Beach State Park, bringing that same level of excellence to the Grand Strand.
Together, these recognitions reflect the strength of tourism in Myrtle Beach’s tourism ecosystem, from accommodations to the natural beauty, and the people behind it.