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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578691077464.jpeg" alt="Allie Glidewell" />
 <figcaption>Allie Glidewell</figcaption>
 </figure>DHDCDowntown Hays Development Corp. on Friday announced the addition of Allie Glidewell as the new director of events and operations.&nbsp;Born and raised in Wichita, Glidewell came to Hays to pursue an education at Fort Hays State University. In May, she will graduate with a degree in tourism and hospitality.“Fort Hays has provided me with a deep enjoyment of hospitality,” Glidewell said. “My classes have given me an educational background in topics such as event management, civic leadership and sustainability. What I really love about FHSU is the many opportunities to gain a real world education. I’ve been able to travel to conferences and conventions all over the United States and even study abroad. Through these experiences, my education has been enriched and I feel very well prepared for a successful future with DHDC.”Despite not yet graduating, Glidewell's past work experiences are many, having served in the areas of dining, hotel management and customer service.“My previous work and internship experiences have been wonderful opportunities for both personal and professional growth. I am thrilled about the position with DHDC and the chance to work closely with the Hays community for many years to come,” Glidewell said.The director of events and operations position is new for DHDC, and its creation is a direct result of a new strategic plan created for the organization by FHSU's Management Development Center. Glidewell's duties will primarily focus on the 13 annual events hosted by DHDC, including sponsor engagement, vendor relationships, and committee management."We are thrilled that Allie has joined our team," said Sara Bloom, DHDC executive director. "The energy and experience she brings are very exciting. With Allie in this position, it will allows me to focus more on relationships, marketing, and the development of our beautiful Downtown Hays. Our new strategic plan has several goals laid out for us to achieve in the next two to five years, and I'm thankful to have more time and energy to pour into those initiatives.”Glidewell began her position at DHDC on Jan. 2. Community members are encouraged to reach out to her at <a href="mailto:allie@downtownhays.com">allie@downtownhays.com</a>.

New director of events and operations joins DHDC