State of Indiana Honors Longtime Hendricks County Resident with Hoosier Hospitality Award
A Danville woman who has become a major part of Hendricks County tourism through her work at Beasley’s Orchard and at Visit Hendricks County (VHC) received statewide recognition on Monday.
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DANVILLE, IN (November 11, 2025) – Betty Ann Kessinger was one of 12 recipients of the 2025 Hoosier Hospitality Awards during a ceremony in Indianapolis. The Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC) presented her with the award.
Kessinger, a retired Danville Community Schools teacher, currently serves as a tour guide at Beasley’s Orchard and as the Hospitality Assistant for VHC.
From assembling thousands of VHC welcome bags to rolling mousepads for holiday gifts, Kessinger consistently tackles behind-the-scenes work with enthusiasm. At Beasley’s Orchard — one of VHC’s beloved agritourism staples — she brings that same cheerfulness to seasonal tours and school group visits, welcoming guests, sharing the orchard’s story and helping ensure every visit is memorable.
“Betty Ann embodies the spirit of true Hoosier Hospitality through her selfless dedication and unwavering commitment to our community and industry,” said Jaime Bohler Smith, Executive Director/CEO of VHC. “Her willingness to give her time and herself so generously makes her a perfect representative of what makes Hendricks County special. After spending 18 years with us at Visit Hendricks County, we are incredibly proud to see her recognized with this Hoosier Hospitality Award.”
Kessinger resides in Danville with her husband, Terry.
Nominations for Hoosier Hospitality Awards are submitted by community members and destination patrons. Nominations are reviewed, and winners are selected by the IDDC staff.