BCA announces new board member and chairman

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Katie Britt
Katie Britt [Photo Credit: BCA]

The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) has announced its 2021 board of directors, including a new chairman. The BCA is a non-partisan, statewide business association representing the interests and concerns of nearly 1 million working Alabamians through its member companies and its partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama. 

The BCA board of directors includes leaders from across the state. BCA President and CEO Katie Boyd Britt stated, “We again have gathered an incredible group of professionals to serve as our 2021 board of directors. Every member serves an important role and brings together diverse professional experience on issues important to Alabama business,” commented Britt. “The board plays an instrumental part in BCA’s ability to achieve the goals of growing the state’s economy, creating jobs, and encouraging investment in Alabama. I am excited to work with and learn from them as we all navigate through the new year.”

Stephanie A. Bryan, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Chairwoman & CEO, has been selected to serve on the Board of Directors. In her role as CEO of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Bryan oversees all Tribal operations including Tribal Government, Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA), and PCI Gaming Authority (PCIGA). Bryan has been a lifelong member of the tribe and advocates for her tribe on a local and national level. 

Gary Smith, who currently serves as President and CEO of PowerSouth Energy Cooperative was elected to serve as chairman of the board, succeeding John Mazyck. Smith has had other leadership roles with BCA including chairman of ProgressPAC. He graduated from the University of North Alabama and Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law. Smith also serves on the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama Board, Alabama Rural Electric Association Cooperatives Board, University of North Alabama Board, and the Southern Independent Bank Board, and others.

Britt stated, “Gary Smith has been a valuable partner of BCA for years and has contributed so much already through his involvement. His strong leadership has positively impacted BCA and ProgressPAC in innumerable ways, and I look forward to working alongside him as he continues to work on behalf of the Alabama business community.”

“I am honored to serve as BCA’s next chairman. It’s a privilege to be a part of this organization and the board serving the businesses of Alabama,” stated Gary Smith. “I am grateful to John for the countless contributions he made throughout his time as chairman. BCA has continued to succeed in part because of his leadership. I anticipate great things for the future of this organization.”

Upon the nomination, Stephanie Bryan stated, “I am honored to serve on BCA’s Board. The Tribe shares BCA’s priority of creating jobs for hardworking Alabamians, and I’m excited for this opportunity. I want to thank Katie Boyd Britt, Gary Smith, and all who were involved in this decision.”

Gary Smith praised Bryan, stating, “We are deeply appreciative of Stephanie’s leadership and willingness to serve in this important role. The Poarch Band of Creek Indians have a great track record of creating jobs and giving back to communities across our state, and BCA looks forward to having Stephanie’s valuable voice at the table.”

For a full list of the BCA board of directors, visit bcatoday.org.