DECATUR – Decatur Morgan County Tourism (DMCT), in partnership with the Decatur Morgan County Hospitality Association, recognized outstanding individuals, organizations, and community partners during its 2026 Tourism Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet.
The annual celebration brought together hospitality professionals, elected officials, and community leaders to highlight the region’s tourism achievements and recognize those who continue to make Decatur and Morgan County a destination “Where Core Memories Are Made.”
2026 Tourism Award Recipients
These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the local tourism industry.
- Gilmer Blackburn Legacy Award – Norman Roby: Recognized for his decades of leadership, community involvement, and lasting contributions to tourism development and preservation throughout Morgan County.
- Julian Walker “Mr. Tourism” Award – Ronnie Dukes: Honored for his longstanding service on the DMCT Board of Directors, civic leadership, and dedication to strengthening the local tourism industry.
Decatur Morgan County Tourism also recognized three outgoing board members for their years of dedicated service: Bryan Chapman (2014–2026), Norman Roby (2005–2026), and Ronnie Dukes (2008–2026).
Outgoing Board Chairman Aaron Bell was honored for his leadership from 2024 to 2026 as he passed the gavel to incoming Chairman Wade Weaver.
Additionally, longtime staff members Sharon Holder, Vice President of Operations, and Dolores Powell, Housing Coordinator, were recognized for their years of service. Holder was honored for 28 years of service, while Powell was recognized for 30 years with Decatur Morgan County Tourism.
Tourism remains a significant economic driver in Morgan County. According to the Alabama Tourism Department’s 2025 economic impact analysis, travel-related expenditures in Morgan County exceeded $350 million, supporting approximately 3,620 local jobs, generating $88 million in travel-related earnings, and contributing more than $1.7 million in state lodging tax collections.
“Tourism is about people,” said outgoing Board Chairman Aaron Bell. “Every person in our hospitality industry plays a role in transforming a visit into a lasting memory.”
2026 Decatur Morgan County Hospitality Association Award Recipients
- Event of the Year – 2026 NAIA Lacrosse National Championships: Recognized for bringing 16 collegiate teams to Decatur May 11–16, generating overnight stays, supporting local businesses, and showcasing the city’s ability to host national championship events.
- Good Neighbor Award – Jeanne Payne: Honored for her leadership as chair of the Riverfront Corridor Committee and her efforts to advance Whistle Bend Park, a project designed to enhance a key gateway into Decatur.
- Tourism Professional of the Year (In Honor of Layna Sorrell) – Kati Thompson: Recognized for her exceptional leadership as General Manager of the Hampton Inn Decatur, including the successful opening of the hotel and her commitment to hospitality excellence.
- Industry Partner of the Year – Texas Roadhouse Decatur: Celebrated for its outstanding community involvement, charitable giving, sponsorships, and continued support of local organizations and events.
Since 1987, the Decatur Morgan County Hospitality Association has supported tourism development and community initiatives, including investments in recreational facilities, event infrastructure, and local attractions.
The DMCT Annual Meeting and Decatur Morgan County Hospitality Association Awards celebrate the partnerships, leadership, and hospitality professionals who continue to strengthen Decatur and Morgan County as a destination for visitors from across the country.
Association members include hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other partners serving the hospitality and tourism industry. In addition to supporting local tourism initiatives, the association gives back to the community each holiday season by providing Christmas gifts for a local hospitality family.
“I am proud of the continued thoughtfulness of our membership in offering ideas and supporting efforts that benefit tourism initiatives through the Room Occupancy Fund, which was designed to create a revenue source for tourism product development,” said Susan Morrow, President of the Decatur Morgan County Hospitality Association.
Since its inception, the Room Occupancy Fund has helped finance projects at the Jack Allen Recreation Complex, Hospitality Park, and Ingalls Harbor Pavilion. The association has also supported the purchase of golf carts for events, relocation of the Judge James E. Horton Home, the Reconnecting Communities Grant, and efforts surrounding Rock the South’s selection of Decatur as its new home.
As Decatur and Morgan County continue to grow as a destination, the success of the local tourism industry remains rooted in the dedication of its people and the strength of its community partnerships. Decatur Morgan County Tourism and the Hospitality Association look forward to building on this momentum, creating new opportunities for economic growth, enhancing visitor experiences, and ensuring Decatur and Morgan County remain a place where core memories are made.
Media Release/Emma Martin, Communications Director/Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Inc.
