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Selma native Candace Johnson was honored for her work with the University of Alabama Center for Economic Development (UACED) at the Governor’s Conference on Tourism last month.

A 1999 graduate of Meadowview Christian School, Johnson is the project manager for the Alabama Birding Trails.

“I love my job and promoting my home state to visitors. Birding brings together conservation and tourism and is one of my favorite programs we manage,” Johnson said. “It is always an honor to be recognized by your peers and this award has a front row spot in my office.”

Johnson, who spoke at the Selma Rotary Club last month, thanked Lee Sentell and Nisa Miranda.

“I appreciate Lee Sentell and his year of campaigns to highlight different assets of the state each year,” Johnson said. “This project would have never been possible with the leadership of Nisa Miranda our former director of UACED.”

The center received the Partnership of the Year award and Keya Nkonoki received the Rising Star award. It has been a partner with the Alabama Tourism Department and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources in the development of The Alabama Birding Trails for over 13 years.

The Alabama Birding Trails improve the educational resources available to tourists and area residents relative to the spectacular birding opportunities in the region.