State tourism director Lee Sentell is the longest-serving state tourism director in the country and the longest-serving governor’s cabinet member in Alabama history. He is now serving in his 20th year after being appointed to the office by three consecutive Alabama governors. Sentell’s writing background led him into tourism marketing and promotion. Sentell studied journalism at Auburn where he wrote for the Plainsman and served as managing editor under Jerry Brown, who later headed the journalism department for many years.

Catherine Wayman is the Creative Director and Managing Partner of C. Wayman Floral & Events, LLC. Based in both Atlanta and Auburn; Catherine specializes in creating unique floral designs and beautifully curated events. As a graduate of HRMT in 2007, Catherine's educational and vocational experiences have given her a variety of valuable experiences in the hospitality industry, including hotel management, wedding and special event planning, and floral and interior design.