THE BRIDGE AWARD
The Bridge award recognizes the contributions of those who help advance the understanding and practice of diversity , equity and inclusion specifically within the hospitality and tourism industry in Baltimore .
Kondwani Fidel , Poet , Author , Advocate and Educator
Over the years , Kondwani Fidel has emerged as a leader within our creative community and as an ardent ambassador for Baltimore through his poetry , writing , teaching and work on the Visit Baltimore Your People Are Here campaign , the Beneath the Shell poem and the Orioles ’ 30th Anniversary and City Connect campaigns . Kondwani ’ s artistry and powerful storytelling has helped bring the Baltimore brand to life beyond marketing campaigns . This past year he was called on by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists Convention to deliver their keynote address . Kondwani responded with an original spoken word poem that brought out the importance of diabetes education , particularly in underserved communities where the need is great . He has served as a “ bridge ” between visitors and our community , conveying the authenticity of the city through poetry and passion . We truly appreciate his creativity , expertise and support as we strive to be a destination that embraces all .
CHARM CITY CHAMPION AWARD
This special award is given to a well-respected leader in the city whose work touches many aspects of tourism and the community and whose passion for Baltimore shines through in all that they do .
Dionne Waldron McNeal , Fulton Bank and CIAA Volunteer Committee Chair
Dionne Waldron McNeal serves as Vice President of Community Outreach for Fulton Bank in the Baltimore area where she works closely with her internal partners to support the Fulton Forward initiative , serve as a resource to the community and assist in bringing about change for the underserved . Over the years , Fulton Bank has become a pillar of the Baltimore business community through its investment in our city and its commitment to improving the lives of Baltimoreans through workforce development and DEI . Dionne was critical in the success of the 2023 CIAA Men ’ s and Women ’ s Basketball tournament through her work as chair of the local volunteer committee . Because of Dionne ’ s leadership , the CIAA Local Organizing Committee was able to recruit 341 volunteers to provide wayfinding support and information for the 26 events and 22 basketball games that took place during tournament week . As an industry , we are grateful for the work that Dionne and the Fulton Bank team do in our community each and every day .
TOURISM AWARDS 35