Forty Under 40: Allyson Elizabeth Twiggs

After college, Allyson Twiggs sold ladies footwear at Dillard’s and loved her job. But she loves her career selling her city even more. And since July 2002, she has done just that as director of the Fayetteville Visitor’s Bureau.

Twiggs graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1994 with a journalism degree. She also played basketball for the Lady’Backs, and returned to the court after graduation as a color commentator at Lady’Back games.

But the experience taught her she didn’t want a career in broadcasting.

She later worked for staffing firm Robert Half International, and planned weddings as well. This allowed her to work from home while she had a child.
Twiggs was intrigued by an ad in the paper for a sales position with the Fayetteville Town Center, but a friend advised her to look into a job with the Visitor’s Bureau instead. The idea of selling and marketing Fayetteville was a dream job for her.

In July 2007, Twiggs earned certification as a destination management executive from the Destination Marketing Association International. She also serves on the board of Pagnozzi Charities, a group that raises scholarship money to allow disadvantaged kids to participate in sports camps and events.