The U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel & Tourism Association honoured Dick Doumeng, owner of Bolongo Bay Beach Resort on St. Thomas, at the Tommy Star Awards Gala where he was presented with the lifetime
achievement “Tommy Star Award of Excellence.”
Considered the “father” of the modern day USVI Hotel & Tourism Association, Doumeng served six different terms as the Association’s president. Under his direction, he guided the organisation using creative methods to raise the non-dues revenue needed to fund a professional association with both the office and staff that met the needs of the local tourism industry.

“Dick was instrumental in setting the tone for our current association,” said Beverly Nicholson, president of the USVI Hotel & Tourism Association.

“Additionally he was important in showing me how to be an effective leader for the organisation,” she added.

“It is an honour to receive the Tommy Star Award of Excellence and to be recognised by my peers within the U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel & Tourism Association,” said Doumeng.

“I am very proud of the work I have done in my various capacities in the
Association and other organisations to help grow the tourism industry for the USVI,” Doumeng added.

The Tommy Awards Gala, now in its fourth year, pays tribute to hospitality employees who have demonstrated excellence in their specific category. It also serves as a fundraiser for the association’s education and training fund.
——-