Governor Kay Ivey announced Wednesday the retirement of Lee Sentell, Alabama’s longest-serving tourism director. Former Governor Bob Riley appointed Sentell in 2003.
“Since Lee began serving at the Department of Tourism, we have grown the state’s tourism revenue from $6 billion to nearly $25 billion,” Ivey said. “Lee should certainly be commended for his passion for our state and its many attractions. From promoting Alabama’s pristine beaches to our award-winning food, Civil Rights history, space, outdoors and everything in between, Lee has always had a special way of 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 created annual campaigns spotlighting small towns, the arts, barbecue, natural wonders, birding and the Alabama Bicentennial celebration. The campaigns won the national industry’s Mercury Award six times in 12 years.
“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 Ivey has been the honor of my life. I look forward to Alabama’s continued growth in the years ahead.”
The department’s U.S. Civil Rights Trail campaign received the International Travel and Tourism Award for best regional promotion at the World Travel Market in London, making it the first U.S. state tourism agency to receive the honor. Most recently, the department helped execute Ivey’s America 250 Alabama Celebration on the front steps of the Alabama State Capitol, where she unveiled a special 250th edition of the U.S. flag.
Ivey also appointed Glenda Allred to lead the department for the remainder of her administration. Allred previously served as deputy state treasurer in State Treasurer Young Boozer’s office. She began state service in 2011.
“I am excited to have Glenda joining the Ivey administration to lead our state’s tourism efforts,” Ivey said. “Before working in the executive branch, she had nearly two decades of private-sector experience that included marketing and media relations. 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 spent 15 years in the private sector with a bank holding company, where she managed media relations, shareholder relations, shareholder publications and advertising for a 72-branch franchise in Alabama.
“I am honored by 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 graduated from Huntingdon College in 1991 and serves on its board of trustees. Her appointment took effect Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
