Visit Tuscaloosa CEO Kelsey Rush Named Alabama Tourism Executive Of The Year

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Visit Tuscaloosa President and CEO Kelsey Rush has been named Alabama Tourism Executive of the Year.

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Visit Tuscaloosa announced Tuesday that the award was presented last week during the 2026 Alabama Governor's Conference on Tourism, hosted by the Alabama Tourism Department.

The distinction recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and made significant contributions to advancing Alabama's tourism industry through innovation, collaboration and measurable impact.

"I am honored to have been recognized by Alabama Tourism," Rush said. "It is an honor to represent Tuscaloosa and to work alongside so many people who are committed to showcasing everything our community has to offer. This recognition belongs to our incredible Visit Tuscaloosa team, our Board of Directors and the many community partners who support tourism efforts and help strengthen our local economy and our quality of life."

Rush has served as Visit Tuscaloosa's president and CEO since 2022.

During her tenure, Visit Tuscaloosa pointed out it has launched the TuscaLife destination brand, introduced the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Digital Pass, expanded annual events such as Tuscaloosa Restaurant Week and Tuscaloosa Oktoberfest, and strengthened partnerships with the University of Alabama, local governments and the hospitality industry.

Visit Tuscaloosa said strategic sales initiatives under Rush's leadership have resulted in a 32% increase in hotel room nights booked since she became CEO.

As Patch previously reported, visitors spent more than $1 billion in Tuscaloosa County in 2025, accounting for roughly one-fifth of all local consumer spending.

During the year, Visit Tuscaloosa says it recruited, supported or assisted with more than 160 sporting events and tourism initiatives, generating about $24 million in event-related economic impact, more than 23,000 hotel room nights and $1.6 million in tax revenue.

Rush has more than 15 years of experience in destination marketing, integrated marketing communications and event development.

Before becoming president and CEO, Rush served as Visit Tuscaloosa's vice president of marketing and communications after leading marketing efforts for Bryant Bank.

Rush holds a master's degree in marketing communication management from the University of Alabama, is a certified Travel Marketing Professional, serves as president of the Alabama Association of Destination Marketing Organizations and was appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey to the Alabama Tourism Advisory Board.

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