Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced the retirement of Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell after more than two decades leading the state’s tourism efforts and named Deputy State Treasurer Glenda Allred to succeed him for the remainder of the Ivey administration.
Sentell, who was appointed by former Gov. Bob Riley in 2003 and served under multiple governors, is Alabama’s longest-serving tourism director. During his tenure, the state’s tourism industry grew from $6 billion in annual revenue to nearly $25 billion, according to the governor’s office.
“Since Lee began serving at the Department of Tourism, we have grown the state’s tourism revenue from $6 billion to nearly $25 billion. Lee should certainly be commended for his passion for our state and for its many attractions,” Ivey said. “From promoting Alabama’s pristine beaches to our award-winning food to Civil Rights history, space, outdoors and everything in between, Lee has always had a special way for sharing the many great facets of our state’s tourism industry. Thanks to his service, we have broken tourism records, supported more jobs for Alabama families and created significant and meaningful revenue for our state.”
Under Sentell’s leadership, the department launched annual campaigns highlighting Alabama’s small towns, the arts, barbecue, natural wonders, birding and the Alabama Bicentennial celebration. Those efforts earned the tourism industry’s Mercury Award six times in a 12-year span.
The department’s U.S. Civil Rights Trail campaign also received the International Travel and Tourism Award for best regional promotion at the World Travel Market in London, making Alabama the first U.S. state tourism agency to receive the honor. Most recently, the department helped execute Gov. Ivey’s America 250 Alabama Celebration on the steps of the Alabama State Capitol, where she unveiled a special 250th edition of the U.S. flag.
“Alabama is a special state, and I have been so proud to show people all over our country and around the world all that we have to offer,” Sentell said. “Leading the state’s tourism efforts for more than two decades and serving under Governor Ivey has been the honor of my life. I look forward to Alabama’s continued growth in the years ahead.”
With Sentell retiring, Ivey selected Glenda Allred to lead the Alabama Department of Tourism. Allred has served as deputy state treasurer in Treasurer Young Boozer’s office and began her state government career in 2011. Before entering public service, she spent 15 years in the private sector managing media relations, shareholder relations, publications and advertising for a bank holding company with a 72-branch franchise in Alabama.
“I am excited to have Glenda joining the Ivey Administration to lead our state’s tourism efforts. Before working in the executive branch, she had nearly two decades of private sector experience that included marketing and media relations,” Ivey said. “Glenda will be a fantastic addition to our team as we finish strong these next six months. Alabama has a lot left to tell, and I know we can continue doing that with Glenda’s leadership.”
Allred, a 1991 graduate of Huntingdon College who currently serves on the school’s Board of Trustees, said she is eager to continue promoting Alabama.
“I am honored by Governor Ivey’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve,” Allred said. “I look forward to working with the dedicated team at the Department of Tourism to advance our shared mission of improving the lives of the people of our state and all those who visit!”
Allred’s appointment became effective Wednesday, July 15.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
