Hoveta Stone-Downing Award

Hoveta Stone-Downing joined Oregon Women in Travel in 1987, but her history in the field of travel began many years before.  She opened SST Travel School in the 1970's, and many Oregon Women in travel members are graduates and instructors of her programs.  Hoveta was a humanitarian and geographer who loved the travel industry and felt that through travel, people would come to recognize their similarities, celebrate their differences, and learn to understand each other.  

She was energetic in all her pursuits, and attended several international IFWTO functions, returning to regale us with her slide shows that captured the spirit of the people and the lands.  At our Casino Night fundraisers in the late 1980's and early 1990's, she contributed much time and energy (and that of her students).  

Hoveta was an inspirational person who had a warm smile that didn't quit.  Sadly she lost her brave battle with cancer in 1995. We recognize her for her contribution of time and effort - not only to OWIT, but to the world.

To honor this generous woman, Oregon Women in Travel initiated an award to be presented from time to time.  This award will honor not only Hoveta, but a current member of OWIT that characterizes the same qualities of Hoveta and who has given outstanding service to OWIT. This award consists of a certificate and a $50 contribution by OWIT to the charity of the recipient's choice.  We think that Hoveta Stone-Downing would be proud of this way to memorialize her and we think it's an appropriate way to express appreciation to outstanding OWIT