Kay Ivey was sworn in as governor late Monday after a tumultuous week in Alabama politics that led to Robert Bentley’s resignation.

“This is a dark day, but one of opportunity for Alabama,” Ivey said. “I ask for your help and patience as together we steady the ship of state and improve Alabama’s image. These are my priorities.”

Ivey, who took the oath of office from Alabama Chief Justice Lyn Stuart, pledged a smooth transition. Stuart also gained her office when her predecessor, Roy Moore, was forced to step down.

“Despite the challenges and we face today, today’s transition should be viewed as a positive opportunity,” Ivey said “It is a demonstration of our successful practice of rule of law and principles of democracy.”

Ivey, who is 72, said that her administration will be open, transparent and honest.

“My commitment is to serve for the glory of God and good of mankind,” she said. “And so y’all, I humbly, very humbly, ask for your prayers of support in the next days and upcoming weeks. We will use this opportunity to make Alabama even better.”

Ivey, served as state treasurer from 2003 until 2011, and was lieutenant governor from January 2011 until taking the oath of office Monday afternoon.

She was a candidate for governor for a short time in 2010, but decided to leave a crowded field of Republicans to run for lieutenant governor.

A native of Wilcox County she graduated from Auburn, and has worked as a teacher and a banker. She also has worked for the Alabama Commission on Higher Education and in the Alabama Development Office.