MONTGOMERY-Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell is retiring after more than two decades of service.
On Wednesday, Governor Kay Ivey announced his retirement and named Glenda Allred as his successor. Also, Allred’s appointment took effect Wednesday, July 15.
Former Governor Bob Riley appointed Sentell in 2003. The department described him as the longest-serving tourism director in Alabama and the nation.
Since then, Ivey said Alabama’s tourism revenue has grown from $6 billion to nearly $25 billion. As a result, she credited Sentell with helping expand one of the state’s leading industries.
“Lee should certainly be commended for his passion for our state and for its many attractions,” Ivey said.
For example, Sentell promoted Alabama’s beaches, food, Civil Rights history, space programs and outdoor destinations. According to Ivey, his work also supported jobs and produced significant revenue for the state.
Sentell Reflects on More Than Two Decades of Service
During Sentell’s leadership, the department created several annual tourism campaigns. For example, those campaigns highlighted small towns, the arts, barbecue, natural wonders, birding and Alabama’s bicentennial.
In addition, the department received six Mercury Awards over 12 years.
Meanwhile, its U.S. Civil Rights Trail campaign earned international recognition. In fact, the campaign received an International Travel and Tourism Award in London.
As a result, Alabama became the first U.S. state tourism agency to receive that honor.
“Alabama is a truly special place,” Sentell said. “It has been the honor of my career to share its people, places and stories.”
Sentell called his time leading the department one of his career’s greatest privileges. In addition, he thanked the partners and friends who supported Alabama tourism.
“I look forward to seeing Alabama’s tourism industry continue to thrive for generations to come,” Sentell said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Tourism Director Grey Brennan said the department plans to build on its progress. At the same time, it will continue supporting tourism partners throughout Alabama.
“Tourism is about people, partnerships and telling the stories that define Alabama,” Brennan said.
Allred Appointed to Lead Alabama Tourism Department
Allred joins the agency after serving as deputy state treasurer in State Treasurer Young Boozer’s office.
She began her state government career in 2011. Before entering state service, Allred spent 15 years working for a bank holding company.
Previously, she managed media relations, shareholder relations, advertising and shareholder publications. Her employer operated a 72-branch banking franchise across Alabama.
In addition, Allred gained experience in both government and private business before accepting the tourism position.
“I am honored by Governor Ivey’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve,” Allred said.
Allred looks forward to working with the department’s staff. Together, they plan to continue promoting Alabama and supporting its tourism industry.
Finally, Allred graduated from Huntingdon College in 1991. She currently serves on the college’s Board of Trustees.
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