A long-time fixture in Chatham-Kent’s tourism scene was recently recognized with a prestigious award in the industry.
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Shannon Prince received the Luminary of the Year Award at the Southern Ontario Tourism Awards held in Sarnia last week.
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The award recognizes an extraordinary individual whose contributions have “illuminated the tourism industry with an unmatched dedication, unwavering passion and relentless commitment,” stated a media release.
It is given to someone who embodies the essence of the industry, making the sector not just a profession but a vocation.
“This was an incredible honor to receive,” Prince told The Daily News. “I love what I do — sharing the rich stories, culture and heritage of CK that is deeply embedded here.”
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Prince retired late last year as curator of the Buxton National Historic Site and Museum, where she served for 25 years, the longest tenure at the organization.
During that time, she earned recognition from local and international communities, while continuing to raise awareness about the area’s Black history, including its role in the Underground Railroad.
Prince has extensively researched family history, provided educational tours and served as an educator.
“Some people are just realizing the wealth we have in their own backyards,” she said. “We should be proud of the diversity; the plethora of tourism assets we have.
“We are surrounded by water, rich agricultural land, bike trails, golf courses, parks, orchards and history. We should be bragging about coming to CK! Come by train, boat, bus, bike or car — a great community to visit, stay play and grow.”
A distinguished academic, she has spoken on CNN, as well as worked with York University, the University of Toronto, the Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Millersville University, and several other historical organizations around the world.
Her work has earned her an honorary doctorate from the University of Windsor.
Prince and her husband, Bryan, were recently appointed to the Order of Canada.
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