LaFayette Main Street director 2026 state liaison
CONTRIBUTED BY MAIN STREET ALABAMA WITH ADDITIONS BY STAFF THE LAFAYETTE SUN
LAFAYETTE —
Main Street Alabama, Alabama’s downtown revitalization organization, recently announced the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors, as well as its 2026 Main Street director liaison.
Candace Johnson, CTP, TMP, who serves as director of tourism and community engagement with the University of Alabama Office for Business Engagement Services, is one of six new members. She brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, training and fostering community and business partnerships.
Alabama Farmers Federation Executive Director Paul Pinyan also joins the board and brings extensive experience in leadership and advocacy throughout the state.
Dr. Joel Billingsly, an associate professor at the University of South Alabama, centers his teaching philosophies on creating a community of learners. His focus on instructional design and technology will undoubtedly enhance the board’s capabilities, as well. Another strategic fit for the Main Street board is Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association Vice President of Operations Angie Pierce, who brings over 25 years in the tourism industry.
Overseeing city services in the City of Gadsden is Director Tena King, who is not only a successful small business owner but has served in many leadership positions with several impactful organizations across the region.
Finally, DeAnna Hand, who currently serves as the executive director of LaFayette Main Street, will take the liaison place on the board, which is annually filled by a local director in one of Main Street Alabama’s 34 designated communities.
“Serving on the board of Main Street Alabama is an incredible opportunity to support the work happening in downtowns across our state,” Hand said. “I’ve seen firsthand how Main Street programs bring people together to support local businesses, preserve history and spark excitement. I am honored to be a part of this effort and excited to help.” Hand said through her position on the Main Street Alabama Board she will help represent the experiences and needs of towns like LaFayette across the state.
“I see every day how the Main Street approach strengthens small towns,” she said. “I am proud to represent the voices and experiences of directors across Alabama’s 34 designated Main Street communities and to help ensure the successes and challenges we face at the local level continue to inform and strengthen the statewide mission.”
“We look forward to another productive year of work in Alabama’s Main Street communities, adding to a wonderful roster of capable and connected individuals committed to revitalizing the state’s charming and authentic downtown communities,” said Mary Helmer Wirth, Main Street Alabama President and State Coordinator.
About Main Street Alabama
Main Street Alabama is a nonprofit organization which stresses public-private partnerships, broad community engagement and strategies that create jobs, spark new investment, attract visitors and spur growth in core commercial districts. Main Street builds on the authentic history, culture and attributes of specific places, to bring sustainable change.
