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Jax State's Pete Conroy Receives Alabama Tourism Department's Director's Award for 2024

by Josh Underwood

Jacksonville, AL (08/01/2024) — Jacksonville State University's Pete Conroy has been honored with the Alabama Tourism Department's prestigious Director's Award for 2024, a distinguished recognition presented at the Alabama Governor's Conference on Tourism. This accolade celebrates Conroy's significant contributions to conservation, economic development, and tourism in Alabama.

Conroy, Director of Jax State's Environmental Policy and Information Center, is widely recognized for his dedication to public lands and has led numerous projects that blend conservation and economic development. His notable initiatives include establishing and operating the Little River Canyon Center, the Talladega Mountain Center, Longleaf Studios and entertainment complex, re-using the former Fort McClellan, and the Chief Ladiga Rail-Trail. He has been instrumental in various Alabama-based projects promoting environmental education, arts, conservation, civil rights and sustainable hospitality.

Conroy expressed his gratitude for the recognition: "I am truly honored to receive this recognition from the Alabama Tourism Department. This award is a testament to teamwork, collaboration, and partners all committed to preserving and promoting Alabama's natural and cultural heritage. Together, we have made great strides in enhancing our state's tourism and conservation initiatives, and I look forward to continuing this important work."

The Alabama Tourism Department's Director's Award is a testament to Pete Conroy's enduring impact on Alabama's tourism and conservation efforts. His work continues to inspire and foster sustainable development across the state.

Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter publicly praised Conroy's work, saying, "Congratulations to Pete Conroy on being selected to receive The Alabama Tourism Department's Director's Award for 2024. From his work at Little River Canyon and the Freedom Riders to Alabama Public Television and his series of Longleaf documentaries, Pete is all in. Tourism is vital to Alabama's economic success, and I certainly appreciate Pete's contributions through his many roles at Jax State."

Born in Pennsylvania, Conroy moved to Asheville, North Carolina, in 1970 with his family. He earned his bachelor's degree in biology from Furman University in South Carolina and his Master's degree in zoology from the University of Georgia. Conroy lives in Jacksonville, Alabama, with his wife Roxana, son Mitch and daughter Haley living nearby in Center, Alabama.

The Alabama Tourism Department's Director's Award is an annual accolade given by the Alabama Tourism Department to recognize exceptional contributions to the state's tourism industry. This award typically honors individuals, organizations, or businesses that have made significant impacts on tourism through innovative marketing, outstanding customer service, or contributions to the state's cultural and natural attractions.

About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate level. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1 or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.

Media Attachments

Jacksonville State Director of Environmental Policy and Information Center Pete Conroy is presented the 2024 Alabama Tourism Department’s Director’s Award by Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell at the Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism on July 29.

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