For Immediate Release:
Albuquerque, NM — December 4, 2025 — The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC) is
pleased to announce it has received the award for Best Cultural Heritage Experience from the
American Indigenous Tourism Association. The award was announced on Oct. 29 at the 27th
Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC) in Choctaw, Mississippi. The
Excellence in Indigenous Tourism Awards honors outstanding professionals and
organizations in the industry. In addition, they recognize the $11.6 billion annual contribution
of Indigenous-owned tourism business to the U.S. economy.
IPCC was recognized for its work in preserving and showcasing Pueblo traditions and culture.
By offering experiences including the cultural dance program, the daily artists program,
authentic artwork in the Indian Pueblo Store, Pueblo-inspired cuisine, and exhibits showing
the work of Native artists, IPCC has expanded its work beyond that of a traditional museum.
The Cultural Center works to both educate visitors on the history of Pueblo culture in New
Mexico and immerse them in the living culture of the present.
IPCC is honored to have the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico recognized at a national level. As
IPCC prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026, the staff looks forward to building on
the Center's cultural experiences and continuing to share Pueblo culture with the world.
"This award reflects the vision and dedication of team members, artists, dance groups,
volunteers, and community partners who make the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center a special
place where we can authentically share our Pueblo history, art, and culture throughout our
campus," said IPCC President and CEO Monique Fragua. "It is our hope that every visitor
experience is rooted in our mission to preserve, perpetuate, and celebrate Pueblo culture. This
recognition affirms that our stories continue to inspire and connect people from all walks of
life.”
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About the American Indigenous Tourism Association:
For more than 27 years, the American Indigenous Tourism Association has served as
the only national organization dedicated to advancing a mission to define, introduce,
grow, and sustain American Indigenous tourism that honors traditions and values
across the United States and its territories. Established by tribes for tribes to address
inequities in the tourism system, the American Indigenous Tourism Association is a
501(c)(3) national nonprofit governed by an all-Indigenous board of directors and
serves as a united voice for the $11.6 billion Indigenous hospitality sector. Its successful
legislative work led to the industry-changing Native American Tourism and Improving
Visitor Experience Act (NATIVE Act) funding in 2018, as Indian Country Tourism was
recognized through federal appropriations via NATIVE Act implementation. Native
Nations and communities who are looking to start or expand their cultural tourism
footprint can find resources at www.AmericanIndigenousTourism.org and visitors
interested in learning more about Indigenous culture can visit www.DestinationNativeAmerica.com.
Media Contact:
Liz Slobodian, APR
Liz@shipwrightcommunications.com