The Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA) has named VisitErie President and CEO John Oliver as its 2025 Volunteer of the Year. The award was presented during the Spirit of Hospitality Awards Gala held on Monday, November 10, in Harrisburg, where leaders from across the state gathered to celebrate excellence in Pennsylvania’s hospitality industry.
The PRLA Volunteer of the Year award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to advancing the hospitality and tourism sectors through service, leadership, and advocacy. Oliver was honored for his decades-long dedication to strengthening Pennsylvania’s tourism economy and his instrumental role in shaping policy that supports regional growth.
A respected industry leader across Pennsylvania, Oliver is known for his strategic vision, collaborative spirit, and unwavering belief in the power of partnerships. As a member of the PRLA Board of Directors, Oliver has led efforts to enact legislation that directly impacts Erie’s economy, including Tourism Improvement District (TID) legislation. He is also the founding chair of the Pennsylvania Tourism Coalition, a group of 20 tourism industry associations.
“I was honored and humbled by the recognition,” said Oliver. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and grateful to have been part of such a passionate and resilient industry.”
Oliver will retire at the end of this year after decades of service to the tourism industry.
