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Alabama Business Hall of Fame announces the inductees for 2025

Alabama’s Business Hall of Fame has welcomed six new inductees, celebrating excellence and leadership among the state’s industry leaders.

Established in 1973, the Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to businesses nationwide.

In a recent announcement, the organization shared the names for the 2025 class.

This year’s inductees include:

Terry C. Anderson

Florence, Alabama

Anderson is the Chairman and CEO of American Promotional Events, Inc., famously known for TNT Fireworks, founded in 1920 by his grandfather, Clyde W. Anderson. Over generations, the business has become the largest fireworks distributor globally, with operations across the US, Asia, Europe, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Alongside his role at TNT, Anderson chairs several other organizations, including Anco Far East Importers Ltd. in Hong Kong.

Fournier J. “Boots” Gale, III

Birmingham, Alabama

A seasoned attorney at Maynard Nexen PC, Gale has made a significant impact in the legal field, advising numerous businesses in Alabama. He played a key role in establishing the firm and has been influential as its managing shareholder and chairman. His contributions to the Alabama Business Council have also helped shape the region’s business landscape.

Benny M. Larussa, Junior

Birmingham, Alabama

As the founder and CEO of Sterling Capital Management, Larussa oversees a multi-asset holding company. Under his leadership, Sterling Capital operates significant entities, including Fenwick Food Group and Stoneriver Company, focusing on diverse sectors such as food products and multi-family property management.

In the mid-’80s, he was part of a team that established the first commercial bank in Birmingham, gaining valuable insights into the financial sector.

Tim M. Parker Jr.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Parker is the chairman of Parker Towing Company, which specializes in transporting goods along the Gulf Coast. The company deals with bulk materials such as steel and petroleum. Parker has contributed to Mercedes-Benz US International, Inc. through an advisory role.

William (Bill) J. Stevens

Vestavia Hills, Alabama

Stevens, the retired CEO of Motion Industries, has a notable history in industrial distribution. During his leadership, company sales surged from $1.85 billion to $4.8 billion. He has received several accolades for his contributions to the industry, including the 2014 Bearing Specialists Association Lifetime Achievement Award.

Susan N. Story

Breeze, Florida

The former CEO of American Water Works, the largest publicly traded utility company in the US, Story oversaw significant growth during her tenure. She is recognized among the few women leading an S&P 500 company and has held various leadership positions within the Southern Company.

Story serves on the boards of multiple corporations, including Dominion Energy and Carrier Global.

Members of the Alabama Business Hall of Fame are selected by a board composed of business leaders affiliated with state educational institutions. The induction ceremony is scheduled for November 13 in downtown Birmingham.

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