MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey earlier this week announced the retirement of Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell, appointing Glenda Allred in his place.
Former Gov. Bob Riley tapped Sentell for the post in 2003, making him the longest-serving director in state history. Ivey said in a statement that the state’s tourism revenue has grown from $6 billion to nearly $25 billion during his tenure.
“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.”
The state also won the U.S. Travel Association’s Mercury Awards six times in 12 years under Sentell’s leadership.
Sentell said that leading Alabama’s tourism industry was the honor of his life and that he looks forward to the state’s continued growth.
“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,” he said.
Allred will take over from Sentell for the rest of Ivey’s term, which ends on Jan. 18, 2027. She currently serves as Deputy State Treasurer under State Treasurer Young Boozer’s and has been in state government since 2011.
Ivey said she was excited to have Allred, who also brings two decades of marketing and media relations experience from the private sector, join her administration.
“Glenda will be a fantastic addition to our team as we finish strong these next six months,” Ivey said. “Alabama has a lot left to tell, and I know we can continue doing that with Glenda’s leadership.”
A 1991 Huntingdon College graduate, Allred said she is grateful for the opportunity to serve.
“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 said.