State Honors Two Hendricks County Tourism Leaders with Hoosier Hospitality Award

DANVILLE, IN (November 2, 2026) –A Brownsburg business owner who founded a farm rescue while still in high school and a manager of a Brownsburg attraction who has become known for her attentiveness, empathy and a belief that every guest deserves to feel welcomed, both received statewide recognition last week.

Olivia Head, owner of Oinking Acres Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, and Micaela Mendel, assistant general manager of Pinheads Brownsburg, were two of 18 recipients statewide of the 2026 Hoosier Hospitality Awards during a ceremony in Indianapolis.

Head has transformed her passion for animal rescue into a distinctive Indiana agritourism experience that educates and inspires thousands while changing perceptions of farm animals through personal interaction. There are countless stories exemplifying her compassion for unwanted and mistreated farm animals.

One guest summed up her impact this way: “The day I visited Oinking Acres Farm Rescue & Sanctuary changed me.”

Mendel often recognizes guests’ needs at Pinheads before they even ask for help. She once noticed a guest wearing headphones and realized Pinheads’ busy environment might be overwhelming. She took the time to talk with him, his mother and grandmother and offered the family a more private suite. She even adjusted the lighting and music to create a more sensory-friendly experience. Her employers marvel at her innate ability to notice the person, anticipate the need and act, and she empowers her team to do the same.

Nominations for Hoosier Hospitality Awards are submitted by community members and destination partners. Nominations are reviewed, and winners are selected by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation.

Visit Hendricks County, Inc., enhances tourism and improves residents’ quality of life through leading destination development, fostering industry-community connections and promoting the county through trusted and impartial leadership. For more information, visit our website at VisitHendricksCounty.com or call (317) 718-8750.