Hattiesburg Convention Commission Presents Proclamation Honoring Dr. Aubrey K. Lucas for His 34 Years of Leadership and Dedicated Service to the Growth and Prosperity of Hattiesburg and its Convention Commission
Members of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission Board of Directors and staff recently presented a proclamation to Dr. Aubey K. Lucas recognizing and honoring his 34 years of leadership and dedicated service to the growth and prosperity of Hattiesburg through the Convention Commission.
“Dr. Lucas has been a staunch advocate for the vision and mission of the Convention Commission,” said Rick Taylor, Executive Director of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission. “Driven in large part through his guidance, the Commission has successfully developed, operated, and maintained significant attractions and projects that have become cornerstones of Hattiesburg's cultural and economic landscape.”
Today the Hattiesburg Convention Commission operates the African American Military History Museum, Generations Strong Wall, Hattiesburg Pocket Museum, Hattiesburg Zoo, Historic Eureka School, Lake Terrace Convention Center, Oseola McCarty House, Saenger Theater, Serengeti Springs, Smith Drug Co. and The Lawn at Lake Terrace.
“It has been my honor to work with Dr. Lucas on the Commission Board,” said Jennifer Payne, Chair of the Board of Commissioners. “He has always remained steadfast to the Commission’s mission of creating and growing quality attractions that both educate and entertain visitors of all ages while positively impacting the economic development of our city.” “The legacy of his work and influence will have a lasting impact on every visitor to a Hattiesburg Convention Commission attraction,” continued Payne.
Proclamation
WHEREAS, Dr. Aubrey Lucas was selected as an original member of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission Board in 1991, serving with unwavering dedication for thirty-four years until 2025; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Lucas has been a visionary leader and steadfast advocate throughout the Commission's remarkable transformation from a modest organization with a $1 million budget and three employees to a thriving enterprise with an $18 million budget and over 400 employees; and
WHEREAS, under his guidance and leadership, the Commission has successfully developed, operated, and maintained thirteen significant attractions and projects that have become cornerstones of Hattiesburg's cultural and economic landscape, including the flagship Lake Terrace Convention Center, the historic Saenger Theater, the Hattiesburg Zoo, the African American Military History Museum, and the newest addition, Serengeti Springs Water Park; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Lucas demonstrated exceptional resilience and leadership during challenging times, including the devastating tornado that struck the African American Military History Museum and Eureka School in 2013, public opposition to convention center development, always maintaining his commitment to the Commission's mission and the betterment of Hattiesburg; and
WHEREAS, his wisdom, diplomacy, political savvy, and unwavering encouragement have been instrumental in navigating complex decisions and fostering collaborative relationships that enabled the Commission to achieve remarkable milestones; and
WHEREAS, through the Commission's success under Dr. Lucas's leadership, the organization now generates 64% of all visitor spending in the City of Hattiesburg, contributing approximately $370 million annually in guest spending to the local economy; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Lucas has served as an inspiration to fellow board members, community leaders, and Commission staff, exemplifying the highest standards of public service, integrity, and commitment to community development;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Commissioners of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission hereby extends its deepest gratitude and highest commendation to Dr. Aubrey Lucas for his extraordinary thirty-four years of dedicated service, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the growth and prosperity of Hattiesburg and its Convention Commission.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Dr. Lucas's legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission's success story, and his contributions will continue to benefit generations of visitors, residents, and community members for years to come.
We wish Dr. Lucas the very best as he embarks on this new chapter of his life, knowing that his remarkable impact on our organization and community will be remembered and celebrated always.
ADOPTED this the Twenty-First day of August, 2025 by the Board of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission.
