To honor the tourism sector for the opportunities it makes possible in the community, Savannah Technical College Foundation will honor culinary arts and heritage tourism at the eleventh annual Opportunity Award Gala, at 7 p.m. on December 5 at Savannah Technical College in the Eckburg Auditorium (5717 White Bluff Road, 31405).

Savannah’s vital tourism industry welcomes 12 million visitors a year to Georgia’s First City. As Savannah embraces its growing reputation as a travel destination city, civic and business leaders place increasing value on heritage tourism, focusing on travelers who are looking for a multi-faceted experience including historical, cultural and learning opportunities. The rich history of the region, coupled with the abundance of museums and landmark sites make Savannah a natural draw for visitors seeking a heritage tourism experience.

With Savannah’s growing reputation as a “foodie city,” residents and visitors alike appreciate the thriving local restaurant scene. Culinary tourism is the largest niche travel sector worldwide (World Food Travel Association WFTA 2013). A 2013 study shows that among recent leisure/overnight travelers, nearly one-third choose destinations based on culinary opportunities; more than half of all respondents said they travel to learn about or enjoy unique and memorable eating and drinking experiences, and nearly two-thirds are interested in taking a trip to engage in culinary activities within the next year.

Heritage tourism and culinary arts are important economic drivers in southeast Georgia. Savannah Technical College plays an important role in preparing future generations for careers in these industries. The College’s Culinary Arts program is led by the nation’s best chef educator (American Culinary Federation, 2014), and the program has been ranked as one of the top four in the country for the past five years. Its Historic Preservation program delivers world-class instruction in the traditional crafts so vital to our historic community and has partnered with the Smithsonian Institution, Lincoln Cathedral and the National Council for Preservation Education among other prestigious organizations.

Held in December of each year, the event honors deserving people in our community for a lifetime of service in creating and enhancing opportunities for others to succeed. These individuals have demonstrated a commitment to creating opportunities for Georgians both locally and at the state level. The event gathers 300 community and civic leaders for a celebratory evening. The evening also showcases the talents of students enrolled in Savannah Technical College’s award-winning Culinary Arts programs. Proceeds go to support the Savannah Technical College Foundation. Past recipients include: Former Governor Zell Miller, Arnold Tenenbaum, Judge Griffin Bell, Tom Coleman, Dick Eckburg, Arthur M. Gignilliat, Jr., Bob and Alice Jepson, Howard Morrison and Stratton Leopold.

Last year, the Foundation celebrated Advanced Manufacturing and featured presentations from area manufacturers.

The Opportunity Award Gala is a fundraiser for the Savannah Technical College Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization that raises funds to support Savannah Technical College. For ticket and sponsorship information, visit www.savannahtech.edu/gala or contact Gail Eubanks [email protected] or 912.443.3022.