AMHOF names interim director

TUSCUMBIA — More than five weeks after placing its executive director on administrative leave, the Alabama Music Hall of Fame Board has announced it has named an interim director.

Kelly Flippo McDonald is a native of Florence who has more than three decades of experience in the health care sector, where she served in a variety of leadership roles, including as marketing director and chief operating officer.

The release did not indicate which health care organizations McDonald is associated with.

According to the release, McDonald is a “long-time avid supporter of AMHOFandtheMuscle Shoals Music Association and she was instrumental in planning the local premiere for the critically acclaimed Muscle Shoals documentary.”

“Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to this role,” hall of fame board Chair Judy Hood said. “She is a natural leader and has the passion and political savvy to lead us through this transitional period.”

Sandra Burroughs, the hall of fame’s executive director since 2018, was placed on administrative leave without pay on March 6 pending the conclusion of “an investigation.”

The decision to place the executive director on leave took place during an emergency called meeting, but it was not revealed who was conducting the investigation.

Burroughs said she was made aware of the decision on April 15 afternoon.

“I cannot make any comments at this time,” she said.