Press Release - Oct 01, 2024
Grand River Center Winner of the 2024 Stella Awards
Recognizing Excellence in the Meeting Industry
Recognizing Excellence in the Meeting Industry
(DUBUQUE, IA – October 1, 2024) Oak View Group, operators of the Grand River Center, are proud to announce that the Grand River Center won the 2024 Northstar Stella Award, earning the gold medal for Best Convention Center in the Midwest. Receiving this award showcases our commitment to excellence, reflecting our team’s dedication and the exceptional experiences we provide during each event.
The Stella Awards honor excellence across key industry segments: hotels, convention and conference centers, airlines, cruise lines, DMOs/CVBs and DMCs. This year's winners, selected from more than 8,000 votes and 1,000 nominations, exemplify overall excellence, superior food and beverage offerings, professionalism of staff, sustainability initiatives, and other critical aspects of the meetings and events experience.
“I am truly humbled to accept this distinguished Stella Award on behalf of our remarkable team,” said General Manager Ryan Bonifas. “To be acknowledged among so many outstanding convention centers speaks volumes about the dedication and effort our team invests in creating memorable experiences for our guests every day. This achievement would not have been possible without the steadfast support of Oak View Group, the City of Dubuque, and Travel Dubuque. We are inspired by this recognition and will continue striving to enhance our service and venue management.”
Receiving the 2024 Northstar Stella Award for Best Convention Center in the Midwest is a true reflection of the Grand River Center team's unwavering commitment to excellence. This recognition underscores their dedication to providing outstanding experiences for clients and guests. The Grand River Center is proud to be counted among the top venues in the region and remains committed to upholding the highest standards in service, hospitality, and event execution. This award not only honors our accomplishments but also motivates us to continually elevate the quality of future events.
“The Stella Award from Northstar Meetings Group recognizes excellence, and for over 20 years, the Grand River Center has consistently exemplified this standard. The venue is repeatedly chosen by meeting planners, some of whom have been returning for two decades. Whether it's hosting winter sports teams, local businesses, or various events, the Grand River Center’s combination of stunning facilities and exceptional service from the Oak View Group makes it the premier meeting destination in the Midwest, “Said Keith Rahe, President & CEO of Travel Dubuque.
The Grand River Center has also been honored as a top destination for meetings and conventions by Facilities and Destinations magazine, receiving the prestigious Prime Site Award. This annual award recognizes the top convention and exposition centers in the U.S., highlighting venues that excel in highly competitive meeting markets, as chosen by clients.
About Oak View Group
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality services, and 360-degree solutions for a collection of world-class-owned venues and a client roster of arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions. Founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015, OVG is the leading developer of major new venues either open or under development across four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.