Shannon Jones Honored at 2024 Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference

YMCA of the Rockies is proud to announce that Shannon Jones, general manager of the Estes Park Center, received the 2024 Colorado Governor’s Award for Frontline Hospitality Tourism Worker. The award recognizes people who have made significant contributions to delivering excellence in hospitality for Colorado’s tourism industry; and Jones was one of just seven recipients this year.

Jones is known for his intentional and frequent interactions with guests – he is often seen around the property, greeting them with a handshake and a smile, or driving the YMCA ice cream truck, handing out free treats. His engagement with guests not only provides exceptional experiences for them, it also enhances his operational role – providing real insights and firsthand feedback that leads to increased efficiencies among his team and YMCA of the Rockies as a whole.

“Shannon is a treasured member of our team, and we are thrilled to see him recognized throughout the industry, too,” says Julie Watkins, president and CEO of YMCA of the Rockies. “He leads from the front, embodying a spirit of service and inspiring his team; he is the ultimate host, an exemplary leader, and an unforgettable presence at the Estes Park Center.”

Jones has been the general manager of YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center since early 2020. Prior to his time with YMCA of the Rockies, Jones honed his passion for hospitality with a decades-long career in the industry working for top companies including Marriott, InterContinental Hotels Group, HHC Hotels, Ledgestone Hospitality and White Lodging.

The Governor’s Tourism Awards were announced at the annual Governor’s Tourism Conference in early October.