NEWS RELEASE
(Montgomery, AL) Governor Kay Ivey has appointed Drake State Community & Technical College President Dr. Patricia Sims to the Alabama State Port Authority Board of Directors. Sims will serve as the representative of the Northern District in a position previously held by Algernon “Al” Stanley whose term expired July 31, 2020.
“I’ve appointed individuals that have consistently demonstrated the necessary knowledge and leadership skills critical to economic expansion in Alabama,” said Ivey. “The success of our port is fundamental to Alabama businesses and jobs, and I’m confident these folks will contribute to great work being done under John Driscoll and the board.”
Established by legislative act in 2000, the nine-member Port Authority board holds fiscal and policy oversight for the public seaport. The Port Authority owns and operates the State of Alabama’s deep-water port facilities at the Port of Mobile, one of the nation’s largest seaports.
The Authority’s container, general cargo and bulk facilities handle more than 26 million tons of cargo annual and have immediate access to two interstate systems, five Class 1 railroads, and nearly 15,000 miles of inland waterways. The cargo and vessel activity associated with the Port Authority’s assets employ over 150,400 Alabamians and generates over $25.4 billion in economic value for the state.
“Of course it’s an honor to have received this appointment and I intend to execute my role with commitment and integrity,” said Sims. “The Port Authority is an anchor to Alabama’s economy and I look forward to being able to contribute to its continued success.”
Drake State Community & Technical College was founded in 1961 and is a member of the Alabama Community College System. The College is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Located in Huntsville, Ala.,
Drake State offers a wide range of technical degrees, transferable college credits, associate degrees and workforce training for traditional and non-traditional students.
