JACKSON — Sen. Melanie Sojourner (R-Natchez) received the Mississippi Tourism Association Friend of Tourism/Legislator of the Year Award on Jan. 9.

The MTA recognizes a member from the House and a member from the Senate for his or her support during the legislative session.

The award was presented to Sojourner during the annual MTA Legislative Luncheon at the Jackson Convention Complex.

“To be recognized in this way by an association that, not only represents one of the largest sectors of Mississippi’s economy, but also plays a huge role in shaping our states image is a tremendous honor,” Sojourner said.

“Some of Mississippi’s most dedicated champions are no doubt the members of MTA, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to work with them on building a stronger future for our great state.”

Sojourner currently serves on the Senate tourism committee and chairs the senate forestry committee.

The Mississippi Tourism Association is a public/private partnership dedicated to representing and promoting Mississippi’s tourism industry.