Wayne Chandler Spirit of Partnership Award
Deadline to nominate someone for the 2025 Wayne Chandler Spirit of Partnership Award is January 8, 2025.
Do you know a member of ABA who sees “the Big Picture,” recognizes that “together, we are stronger,” and demonstrates collaboration, passion, cooperation, enthusiasm, support, and respect for everyone in the tourism industry? Nominate that person today for the Wayne Chandler Spirit of Partnership Award!
Purpose
The Wayne Chandler Spirit of Partnership Award recognizes an individual who creatively works within the group travel industry to build partnerships to promote all tourism market segments and destinations.
Eligibility
An individual with a current or past affiliation with the American Bus Association.
Primary Criteria for Selection
- Collaboration with other operators and travel industry professionals.
- Collaboration with city and/or state DMOs.
- Creating new or unique opportunities for collaboration.
- Exemplifies passion, support, customer service, creativity, and respect.
Secondary Criteria for Selection
- Years in the tourism industry.
- Overall professional/company success.
- Contribution to the motorcoach industry overall.
About Wayne Chandler
Whether you spent one meeting with him or worked extensively by his side, Wayne Chandler shared his bright light with everyone. He spent more than 30 years representing the Grand Ole Opry worldwide.
Wayne started his career with Ryman Hospitality Properties/Gaylord Entertainment in May of 1988. He served in various roles at the Opryland Hotel, Opryland USA, and Grand Ole Opry Tours. Wayne rejoined the Company after owning The Nashville Nightlife Dinner Theater from 1997 to early 2001. He was most recently Director of Sales & Group Services for Opry Entertainment Group. Wayne was a Certified Tourism Professional and served in executive roles on many travel industry boards, including the Student & Youth Travel Association, American Bus Association, National Tour Association, and Ontario Motor Coach Association, and was a Past President of the Music Valley Merchants Association and Nashville Attractions Coalition.
A friend and mentor to countless people, Wayne left behind an incredible legacy of southern hospitality and passion for the Grand Ole Opry and Nashville. And blessed all who knew him with his grateful heart and joyful spirit.
