For Bonnie Alley, welcoming people to Ames is more than a career—it’s personal. As an Ames native with a lifelong connection to the community, she takes great pride in sharing what makes her hometown special. As Director of Business Development at Discover Ames, Bonnie works with meeting planners, industry partners, Iowa State University, and local businesses to bring meetings, conferences, and events to Ames.
With a career rooted in hospitality, Bonnie understands the difference that genuine relationships and thoughtful service can make. Before joining Discover Ames, she served as a Dual General Manager and Revenue Manager for Comfort Inn & Suites and Sleep Inn in Ames. She and her husband, Bob, are also longtime small business owners, operating Alley’s Pizza in Nevada and Story City.
Bonnie’s passion for bringing people together extends beyond her work at Discover Ames. She has been actively involved in professional associations, industry leadership, and community organizations throughout her career. In 2026, she was honored as the Iowa Travel Industry Partners (iTIP) Partner of the Year in recognition of her contributions to Iowa’s tourism industry.
Whether she’s connecting with a meeting planner, collaborating with community partners, or welcoming visitors to Ames, Bonnie believes the little details and personal connections are what turn a good experience into a memorable one. And for her, there’s nothing more rewarding than helping others discover the place she’s always been proud to call home.
