Ivy Albright Named 2026 DMO Director of the Year
The Rutherford County Convention & Visitors Bureau is proud to announce that Ivy Albright, Director of Cultural Heritage Tourism, has been named the 2026 Tennessee Stars of the Industry DMO Director of the Year by the Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association (TNHTA). The award was presented during the Tennessee Governor’s Conference on Hospitality & Tourism.
The annual TNHTA Stars of the Industry Awards celebrate excellence and innovation across Tennessee’s hospitality and tourism industry, recognizing individuals, organizations and establishments that have made meaningful contributions to the growth and success of tourism across the state.
Since joining the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau in September 2025, Albright has played a key role in expanding cultural heritage tourism throughout Rutherford County. Her work has focused on preserving and promoting local history, building strategic partnerships and creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the county’s heritage.
A major focus of Albright’s work has been Rutherford County’s America 250 initiatives. She brought together more than 20 organizations and approximately 30 community leaders to create a shared vision for the county’s commemoration. Among those efforts is the America 250 Passport Program, developed in collaboration with Stones River National Battlefield and 18 community organizations to encourage visitors to explore historic and cultural attractions throughout Rutherford County.
Albright was also recognized for her leadership in Hallowed Ground: Reflections on Stones River National Battlefield, a collaborative photography exhibition developed with the Rutherford Arts Alliance and Stones River National Battlefield. The exhibition brings together art and history to deepen engagement with one of the county’s most significant historic landscapes.
James W. Manning, Jr., Executive Director of Oaklands Mansion, shared: “We are grateful to have Ivy Albright as our Director of Rutherford County Cultural and Heritage Tourism. From the very beginning of her tenure, Ivy has immersed herself in our community with genuine dedication. Her passion for showcasing our historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and local events clearly stems from a personal commitment to excellence, not just a job description. I have no doubt she will continue to make a lasting, positive impact on Rutherford County's tourism and its residents.”
In addition to her work with the CVB, Albright serves on the Boards of Directors for Oaklands Mansion, Main Street Rutherford and the Rutherford Arts Alliance. She also serves as an adjunct instructor with Middle Tennessee State University’s Hospitality and Tourism Management Program.
“Ivy has been a great addition to our team. Her commitment to Rutherford County’s history and heritage, along with her ability to build strong partnerships, has made a positive impact on our cultural heritage tourism efforts. We’re pleased to see her work recognized with this award and look forward to her continued leadership in strengthening cultural heritage tourism throughout Rutherford County.” – Barbara Wolke, Senior VP Rutherford County CVB
