Gadsden, Ala.– The Cardinal Foundation at Gadsden State Community College has announced the appointment of Jay Howell, mayor-elect of Centre, as the newest member of its Board of Directors, representing Cherokee County.

A lifelong resident of Centre, Howell has built a career defined by service, leadership, and community engagement. A 1981 graduate of Cherokee County High School, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University in 1986 and completed the Alabama State Trooper Academy that same year. For the next 25 years, he served with distinction as an Alabama State Trooper, retiring in 2011 after a dedicated career protecting the citizens of Alabama.

Today, Howell and his wife, Tonya, operate Weiss Lake Concierge Property Management and Vacation Rentals, serving both homeowners and visitors across Cherokee County. Beyond his business and public service, he continues to invest deeply in the community through leadership roles on several boards, including Atrium Floyd Cherokee Hospital, Cherokee County E911, and the Weiss Lake Improvement Association. He is also an active member of the Centre Lions Club and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.

Howell and his wife are devoted members of Tate’s Chapel Baptist Church, where they remain engaged in ministry and community service.