Two leaders at Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) have been recognized with honors in the 23rd Annual American Business Awards.
KOA President and CEO Toby O’Rourke received the Gold Stevie Award for Thought Leader of the Year in consumer products, and Ericka Garcia Travis, KOA’s workforce development manager, received the Bronze Stevie Award for Support Staffer of the Year.
The awards, presented annually by the American Business Awards, acknowledge outstanding performance in the workplace and are open to all U.S. organizations, regardless of size or industry.
This year, more than 3,600 nominations were submitted by public and private companies, nonprofits, and other entities. Over 250 professionals participated in the judging process to evaluate and select this year’s winners.
O’Rourke was selected for her contributions to innovation and transformation within KOA. According to a judge, her leadership exemplified the use of data-driven strategies and inclusive practices to help elevate the company.
The Stevie Awards committee noted her approach to sustainable leadership and her efforts to redefine KOA’s direction.
Chris Fairlee, KOA’s chief acquisitions officer, described O’Rourke as a leader dedicated to both professional and personal growth within the organization.
“Toby is a leader who combines innovation with an unwavering work ethic,” said Fairlee. “She works tirelessly and is deeply committed to excellence in everything she does. Her leadership goes beyond business goals—she constantly pushes us to grow as individuals and as a team, inspiring us to become better people and build a stronger, more purpose-driven company. Toby exemplifies KOA’s vision as the world leader in outdoor hospitality. It has been an honor to work alongside her these past 12 years.”
Garcia Travis was honored for her efforts to evolve KOA’s workforce program and her leadership of internal development initiatives, including the Change Agent teams and internship program.
Her recognition in the Support Staffer of the Year category highlights individuals who play a critical role in supporting their organization beyond standard expectations.
Award winners will be formally recognized at a gala ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, June 10, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York. Tickets for the event are currently on sale.
“Organizations across the United States continue to demonstrate resilience and innovation,” said Stevie Awards president Maggie Miller. “The 2025 Stevie winners have helped drive that success through their innovation, persistence, and hard work. We congratulate all of the winners in the 2025 ABAs and look forward to celebrating their achievements.”
For outdoor hospitality business owners, KOA’s recognition may serve as an example of how investment in leadership and staff development can support long-term growth.
The organization’s achievements in workforce planning, innovation, and brand direction offer insight into how strategic management practices can contribute to industry leadership.
KOA operates over 500 campgrounds under both franchised and company-owned models and provides business support services ranging from design support to technology integration and recruitment.
More information about the American Business Awards and a full list of 2025 winners is available at StevieAwards.com/ABA.