Jackson Free Press

The Mississippi Development Authority has named Malcolm White the agency's new Director of Tourism.

White formerly served as the executive director of the Mississippi Arts Commission for seven years, where he oversaw the agency's operations and staff. He will take over his position at MDA Jan. 14.

"I am happy and excited to be joining the MDA Tourism team," White stated in a press release. "Mississippi is at a unique crossroad in our journey to explore and tell our rich, diverse story. As we consider our opportunities, our assets, and our place in the authentic American landscape, we must also look to lift the spirits and economic prospects of all Mississippians and build civic pride in the process. Let's prepare for company and invite the world to visit our true Mississippi."

White founded one of the state's biggest tourism events, the Mal's St. Paddy's Parade, in 1983. The first parade drew a few hundred visitors. Now the parade attracts more than 60,000 locals and tourists and generates upward of $7 million for the local economy. The event benefits Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children.

"I am pleased to welcome Malcolm White to MDA as the agency's new tourism director," MDA Executive Director Brent Christensen stated in the release. "Over the years, he has been a valued partner to MDA, working with the agency to promote Mississippi's creative economy and its unique assets throughout the state. The experience he brings to this position will greatly benefit MDA as we continue to work to promote Mississippi as a tourism destination."

After spending the early 1980s managing and booking acts for multiple venues in Jackson, White founded the restaurant and bar Hal & Mal's with his brother, Hal White, in late 1980s. The downtown staple has been one of the city's most popular live music venues ever since.

"Many people in the Jackson area and around the state are familiar with Malcolm White, his devout entrepreneurial spirit, and his love of Mississippi and our unique, creative culture," Gov. Phil Bryant stated in the press release. "The experience he brings to this position and the vast amount of knowledge he has of the tourism industry will be beneficial not only to MDA but to the entire state of Mississippi and its tourism offerings, as well."

White has a bachelor's degree in social studies from the University of Southern Mississippi. He serves as chairman of the Mississippi Blues Commission and vice chairman of the state's Bicentennial Committee. He is also involved in South Arts, the Mississippi Country Music Trail, the Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts and Downtown Jackson Partners.