Shoemaker Receives Award from Iowa Travel Industry Partners
Posted by: Public Relations
Sioux City, Iowa- Mark Shoemaker, Executive Director of Pottawattamie County Conservation, was recently honored with the Iowa Travel Industry Partners (iTIP) Joe Taylor Vision Award, presented by Visit Quad Cities.
The award was presented at the iTIP Summer Celebration Annual Meeting on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Sioux City. The honor commemorates the legacy of Joe Taylor, former CEO of Visit Quad Cities, known for his visionary leadership over nearly 30 years in destination marketing.
Shoemaker oversees twenty full-time staff, managing six parks and wildlife areas spanning 2,400 acres. Department activities include environmental education, camping, fishing, hiking, skiing, and more. Shoemaker also serves on the Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau Board of Directors, as vice president, leading strategic planning, and securing Iowa Welcome Center status. Under his board leadership, Council Bluffs has received the Outstanding Community Award three times.
“Many people in this room understand I’d much rather be behind the scenes and give credit to others,” said Shoemaker upon receiving the award. “I’ve never considered myself a visionary, but it’s humbling to be recognized for making a difference.”
Following 31 years of service for Pottawattamie County, Shoemaker will retire on August 30, 2024. Read more on his announcement and his lasting impact.
