The Nisbet Award is given to organizations or businesses making significant contributions to the North Carolina travel and tourism industry. Accepting the award on behalf of the resort was Jeffrey Moss, Executive Director of Culture and Staff Development.

The Nisbet Award is named for Lynn Nisbet, founding president of the North Carolina Travel Council and longtime journalist and bureau chief of the North Carolina Association of Afternoon Daily.

The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa employees almost 1,000 people and has an economic impact to the Western North Carolina economy of more than $300 million per year.  The resort is celebrating its ninetieth year as a favorite year-round destination for both leisure and travel guests. Its splendid views, old world charm, peerless amenities, and a long tradition of exceptional service and hospitality make it a place to savor as one of the most enduringly original and exciting resorts in America. 

Over the last three years, The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa has spent $63 million dollars for a property improvement program highlighted by the addition of a world-class $42-million, 40,000 square foot spa; restoration of the resort�s Donald Ross designed golf course named �Best Restoration� by Golfweek magazine in 2002; retiling the historic Main Inn roof; expansion of the Sports Complex and a total refurbishment of all 510 guest rooms.