WHEATONARTS RECEIVES NEW JERSEY TOURISM EXCELLENCE AWARD

MILLVILLE, NJ (March 11, 2016) – Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center received the New Jersey Travel Industry Association Award of Excellence in Public Relations. The award, which was presented at the NJTIA Annual Conference on March 3, 2016 at Resorts Casino in Atlantic City, was awarded to WheatonArts based on the positive media exposure that was achieved for overall programming, as well as targeted outreach for major events like GlassWeekend’15 and the annual signature Festival of Fine Craft. Outreach included traditional marketing efforts, partnerships and collaborations, and strategic digital communications.

According to njtia.org, the Association is comprised of thousands of businesses and community leaders that make a difference in the state. The 2016 awards were given to recognize the accomplishments of those who achieved true excellence in providing an exceptional experience that enhances tourism across NJ.

“It is a true honor to be acknowledged by NJTIA for our efforts to generate cultural tourism to New Jersey,” said WheatonArts Executive Director Susan Gogan. “Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center exists to engage artists and audiences in an evolving exploration of creativity. From our exhibitions to special events to our vital artist community, our mission is to serve our diverse regional, national and international communities with excellent and engaging cultural programs. We are proud to be recognized as a truly unique and authentic experience in the New Jersey tourism landscape.”

Each year more than 60,000 visit Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center; offsite events and programs reach over 75,000. The American for the Arts, Arts and Economic Prosperity Calculator estimates total economic impact to be over $3.5 million annually, which includes tourism and its effects on the local region and the state overall.

WheatonArts is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., April to December. Closed Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Open Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day.

For more information about WheatonArts, call 1-800-998-4552 or 856-825-6800, or visit online at wheatonarts.org. Please submit requests for press images to wheatonartsnews@wheatonarts.org. WheatonArts strives to ensure the accessibility of its exhibitions, events and programs to all persons with disabilities. Provide two weeks notice for additional needs. Patrons with hearing and speech disabilities may contact WheatonArts through the New Jersey Relay Service (TRS) 800-852-7899 or by dialing 711.

Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts and the New Jersey Cultural Trust. WheatonArts receives general operating support from the New Jersey Historical Commission, Division of Cultural Affairs in the New Jersey Department of State, and is supported in part by the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.

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