CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — The Experience Champaign-Urbana Foundation is calling on the community to help spotlight the individuals and organizations that make the region shine.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Brilliant Spirit Awards, which recognize innovation, creativity and collaboration in welcoming visitors and residents to the greater Champaign-Urbana area. Honorees will be celebrated at the annual Toast to Tourism: Celebrating Community Brilliance event on Wednesday, May 6, at Carmon’s, held during National Travel and Tourism Week (May 3–9).
The awards highlight those who go above and beyond to enhance the visitor experience across the region, including Monticello, Tuscola, Arthur, Arcola, Sullivan and Paxton. Nominees may include front-line staff members delivering exceptional customer service, event planners generating significant economic impact, or business leaders whose vision has strengthened the local hospitality industry.
Submissions will be accepted through March 21, 2026, via the Experience Champaign-Urbana website. Each nomination must include a specific example of how the individual or organization has made a meaningful difference for visitors and residents alike.
During the 2025 celebration, Brilliant Spirit Awards were presented to Ruthie Harper of ION Grove at Willard Airport; Little Theatre on the Square; Laura Raney of Comfort Suites; Jan Seeley of Illinois Race Weekend; and Irene Macedo Hernández of La Paloma. A complete list of past recipients is available online.
In addition to nominations, the Foundation is seeking sponsors to ensure the event remains accessible to the community. Current sponsors include Hickory Point Bank, First Federal Savings Bank of Champaign-Urbana, First State Bank and Trust, and Hamilton Walker’s. Businesses and organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to reach out to the Foundation.
National Travel and Tourism Week encourages communities across the country to champion travel as a driver of jobs and economic growth.