Cynthia Sutton Name Mississippi Main Street Director of the Year
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS – June 17, 2026 – The Ocean Springs Chamber-Main Street-Tourism
Bureau is proud to announce that President and CEO Cynthia Sutton has been named the 2026
Mississippi Main Street Director of the Year by the Mississippi Main Street Association.
The award was presented during the Mississippi Main Street Association’s Annual Awards
Luncheon held June 16 in Jackson and recognizes an outstanding Main Street director whose
leadership, innovation, and dedication have made a significant impact on downtown
revitalization and community development.
Sutton has served the Ocean Springs Chamber-Main Street-Tourism Bureau for nearly two
decades and has led numerous initiatives that have strengthened Ocean Springs’ economy,
supported local businesses, promoted tourism, and enhanced the city’s vibrant downtown
district.
During her tenure, Ocean Springs has earned statewide and national recognition, including being
named the recipient of the prestigious Great American Main Street Award, one of the highest
honors in downtown development.
Under Sutton’s leadership, Ocean Springs has also garnered national acclaim through recognition
by USA Today readers as the Best Coastal Small Town in America, while continuing to build on
its reputation as one of Mississippi’s premier downtown destinations. Her efforts have helped
expand tourism marketing initiatives, support façade improvement programs for local
businesses, strengthen community partnerships, enhance special events, and promote
sustainable economic growth throughout the downtown district.
“Cynthia’s passion for Ocean Springs and unwavering commitment to our community have made
a lasting impact on residents, businesses, and visitors alike,” said Dan Mobley, Chairman of the
Ocean Springs Chamber-Main Street-Tourism Bureau Board of Directors. “This recognition is a
testament to her leadership, vision, and dedication to making Ocean Springs stronger and more
vibrant each year. The national and statewide recognition Ocean Springs has received over the
years reflects the hard work and commitment she brings to this organization and community
every day.”
In addition to receiving the Director of the Year honor, Sutton was recognized during the
luncheon for her 19 years of service as a Main Street director, making her one of Mississippi’s
longest-serving Main Street professionals.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition from Mississippi Main Street,” said Sutton.
“This award reflects the support of our board, staff, volunteers, city leadership, business
community, and countless partners who work together every day to make Ocean Springs
successful. I am grateful to be part of a community that continually invests in its future while
preserving the character that makes it so special.”