The torch passes at The Group Travel Leader

LEXINGTON, Ky. — Associate editor Brian Jewell has been promoted to executive editor of The Group Travel Leader Inc., effective July 1. In his new position, Jewell will oversee production of The Group Travel Leader, Bank Travel Management and Going On Faith magazines.

Jewell replaces Herb Sparrow, who is retiring after more than 21 years as executive editor. Sparrow, a former wire service reporter who supervised the start of each publication, will continue to do contract writing and proofing for the publications.

Jewell began with the company as a freelance writer following his graduation from Transylvania University in Lexington in 2003 and joined the staff full time in September 2004.

“Some goodbyes are easier than others,” said Mac Lacy, president and publisher of The Group Travel Leader Inc. “Knowing that Herb will continue to travel and write for us and represent us as he has done so well over the past 20-plus years makes this one much easier.

“Brian is going to do a great job for us moving forward, and having Herb continue to work for us based on his schedule as our senior writer is the best possible ending we could hope for. Everyone’s excited about the future here.”