Allegrucci son takes tourism post

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, Apr 17, 2003 by Chris Grenz Capital-Journal

By Chris Grenz

The Capital-Journal

The son of a Kansas Supreme Court justice and a key aide to Gov. Kathleen Sebelius has taken over as head of the state tourism division.

Scott Allegrucci, who will lead the Travel and Tourism Development Division within the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing, was one of two new directors announced at the agency on Wednesday. He was selected by Lt. Gov. John Moore, who doubles as the commerce secretary.

Allegrucci is the son of Joyce Allegrucci, who served as Sebelius' campaign manager before becoming the governor's appointments secretary earlier this year, and Kansas Supreme Court Justice Donald Allegrucci, a former state senator.

In her role within the Sebelius administration, Joyce Allegrucci is among the governor's top advisers.

But his high-profile parents weren't a factor in Scott Allegrucci getting the job at the commerce department, said Sally Lunsford, the agency's spokeswoman.

"Certainly there is concern that some might see it that way," Lunsford said. "Obviously we can't pretend that he's not related to Joyce Allegrucci and a Kansas Supreme Court justice. But he was selected because of his own virtues and talents."

Scott Allegrucci is a native Kansan who recently conceived and oversaw the January 2003 Family Festival, which was a part of Sebelius' inaugural activities. The event, which attracted about 8,000 people, featured Kansas' heritage.

His background also includes jobs in California and New York as a performer, writer, director and producer for television, feature films and the stage.

Moore said Allegrucci would take a "fresh look" at the department, adding that his background would be beneficial.

"We believe his media expertise and knowledge, his creative approach to challenges, and his leadership skills uniquely qualify him to successfully tell the Kansas story and increase tourism," Moore said.

Allegrucci, who replaces Jeff Mercer as head of tourism, will begin immediately and will be paid $60,000 annually.

"I am truly honored to have this opportunity to help advance Kansas tourism and increase economic opportunities in the state," he said. "I am proud of our state's unique, creative experiences and welcome the challenging work of building and then exceeding our visitors' expectations."

Also announced on Wednesday, Matthew Jordan will become director of the Community Development Division, starting April 28. Jordan, also a native Kansan, has worked for the Community Development Commission in Dermott, Ark., and for the cities of Lenexa and Wichita. Jordan, who also will be paid $60,000 annually, replaces Ned Webb.

Chris Grenz can be reached at (785) 296-3005 or cgrenz@cjonline.com.

Post: Community Development Division director also named

See POST, page 2C