Walton, DeVito to be inducted into state Tourism Hall of Fame
by February 3, 2025 3:08 pm 1,595 views

Philanthropist Alice Walton and restaurant owner Joe DeVito will be inducted into the Arkansas Tourism Hall of Fame during the 51st annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism, officials announced Monday (Feb. 3).
The event takes place from Feb. 23-25 in Bentonville.
The Hall of Fame honor is presented annually to people who have been involved in tourism for years and have contributed to the state’s tourism industry.
“Walton has redefined cultural tourism and community development in Arkansas and beyond through her visionary leadership and dedication to increasing access to the arts, improving education, and enhancing health and well-being,” the release noted. “Her personal passion for art began in childhood while painting landscapes with her mother on family camping and hiking trips in the Ozarks. Over time, Walton’s interest grew into a broader appreciation for art history and American art, culminating in her gifting her personal art collection to form the foundation of the world-class holdings of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.”
She founded Crystal Bridges in 2005 as a nonprofit organization in Bentonville. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, designed by Moshe Safdie, opened on Nov. 11, 2011. Entry is free. The museum extended its reach by opening the Momentary in Bentonville in 2020. The museum has had more than 13 million visitors.

The museum’s American artwork spans five centuries and offers temporary exhibits and public programs. The grounds have more than 5 miles of walking and biking trails. Its educational initiatives provide free opportunities for schools and teachers. The museum is expanding to increase the building by 50%.
Walton also established Art Bridges Foundation in 2017 to expand access to American art nationwide, especially in rural and underserved areas. Also in 2017, Walton led a family foundation gift that provided $120 million to establish a School of Art at the University of Arkansas. It’s the first and only accredited collegiate school of art in Arkansas.
In 2019, Walton established nonprofit Heartland Whole Health Institute, and formed the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine in 2021. The medical school focuses on whole health principles by integrating arts, humanities and wellness. Buildings for the institute and medical school will open adjacent to Crystal Bridges in 2025.
Walton has received numerous honors, including the Smithsonian Institution’s Archives of American Art Medal, the Getty Medal, and recognition by Time magazine as one of the most influential people in the world.
“Through her leadership, Walton has positioned Arkansas as a global destination for arts, education, and innovation, leaving an indelible legacy in The Natural State,” the release shows.

Joe DeVito’s parents, Jim and Mary Alice DeVito, established DeVito’s Restaurant in 1986 in Harrison. Joe DeVito helped run the family restaurant with his brothers, Steve and Chris.
“Raised in the restaurant’s bustling kitchen and dining room, he absorbed his family’s work ethic, deep appreciation for sharing Italian cuisine, and commitment to welcoming every guest as if they were family,” according to the press release. “Today, DeVito’s Restaurant and the accompanying Bear Creek Springs Trout Farm is a staple of the Harrison community and a testament to DeVito’s dedication to carrying forward his parents’ vision while elevating the region’s culinary identity.”
A Harrison native, Joe DeVito has served as the executive director of the Ozark Mountain Tourism Association since 2017.
“He has worked tirelessly to promote the region as a destination for outdoor recreation, cultural heritage and hospitality,” according to the release. “His leadership has helped position the area as a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure and authentic experiences, especially along the Buffalo National River.”
DeVito previously served on the board of the Ozark Mountain Tourism Association and has been a member of the Arkansas Restaurant Association and Arkansas Hospitality Association for decades.
He was inducted into the Arkansas Hospitality Association Hall of Fame in 2020, received the Hospitality Association Salut Au Restaurateur Award in 2013 and was recognized for outstanding service as president of the Arkansas Restaurant Association in 2016.
“Through his lifelong dedication to hospitality, community, and tourism, DeVito has left an enduring mark on The Natural State. Whether welcoming guests at his family’s restaurant, leading initiatives to promote the Ozarks, or representing Arkansas through his leadership in statewide organizations, DeVito exemplifies the passion and pride that make Arkansas a truly special place,” the release noted.