Prof. Dr. Nikolina Popova and Prof. DrSc. Maria Vodenska from the IBS academic team receive the prestigious „Golden Rose“ award for their outstanding contribution to the development of Bulgarian tourism

At an official ceremony organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Minister Evtim Miloshev presented the prestigious „Golden Rose“ award to Prof. Dr. Nikolina Popova and Prof. DrSc. Maria Vodenska, distinguished professors from the International Business School. The award, a symbol of dedication and exceptional contribution to the development of Bulgarian tourism, highlights their pivotal role in building a sustainable and innovative tourism sector.

Prof. Dr. Nikolina Popova, Emeritus Professor at the International Business School, is an internationally recognized expert with a doctoral degree in Recreation and Tourism Geography. She is among the leading specialists in assessing tourism potential and implementing digitalization in the sector. Her research in sustainable tourism development and her efforts to create synergy between education, business, and government are applied in numerous projects that transform tourism services in line with global trends.

Prof. DrSc. Maria Vodenska, an accomplished scholar and educator, has dedicated her career to the geography of recreation and tourism. She is a respected figure in training generations of specialists in key disciplines such as „Introduction to Tourism“ and „Tourism Impacts.“ Prof. Vodenska has been part of the academic team at the International Business School since its inception and serves as a symbol of continuity and dedication in the fields of education and scientific research. Her academic and scientific achievements continue to inspire and shape the future of the tourism sector.

„Tourism in Bulgaria has deep traditions, connected not only to our economy but also to our culture. Once, Bulgaria was an inspiration for tourist-driven countries that today set global standards. It is time to return to these roots and draw strength from them,“ emphasized Minister Miloshev. He expressed gratitude to the awardees for their role in strengthening intergenerational ties and transforming Bulgarian tourism into a model of sustainability and innovation.

The International Business School gives well-deserved recognition to its distinguished professors and highly values their achievements. Prof. Popova and Prof. Vodenska contribute through their work to the advancement of education and the establishment of Bulgaria as a leading destination in the tourism industry.

Photos: Ministry of Tourism