PROVEN LEADERSHIP

Executive Leadership

Transitioned the South Carolina Governor’s Office from a ceremonial entity to an active and aggressive leadership position.

Effective Governance

Worked with Gov. Richard W. Riley, the S.C. Department of Commerce, the S.C. Department of Education, the S.C. Film Office, and the S.C. Technical Education System.

Global Economic Development

Led two international economic development trips organized by the South Carolina Development Board.

Diplomatic Engagment

Participated regularly in the Southeast Economic Development Council and hosted the Consul Generals Conference to expand diplomatic relations and recruit economic investment to the region.

Local Economic Growth

Partnered in the creation of the S.C. Jobs and Economic Development Authority, bringing together private investors and local communities to fund and establish small-business incubators across the state.

Economic Modernization

Appointed by Gov. Riley as chairman of the Governor’s Implementation Task Force to address challenges in the agriculture and technology sectors, leading to the elimination of irrelevant and unnecessary laws and regulations.

Small-Business Advancement

Recognized by Inc. magazine for helping move South Carolina’s small-business development ranking from 49th to 14th nationally in one year.

Film Industry Recruitment

Recruited, through the Lt. Governor’s and S.C. Film offices, two successful miniseries, Chiefs and North & South, resulting in millions of dollars in economic investment in the state.

HBCU Support & Fundraising

Secured business support for Allen University's capital campaign, one of South Carolina’s eight historically Black colleges and universities.

Civil Rights Advocacy

Created the Love Fund to rebuild three Black churches in Lancaster County following their destruction by arson, raising more than $400,000 from across the nation and earning national media recognition.

Education Reform

Advocated for the Education Improvement Act, setting aside $228 million for education reform, accountability, and oversight.

Improving Literacy

Worked with communities across South Carolina to establish local literacy associations aimed at promoting reading and improving the state’s literacy rate.

Statewide Recognition

Awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, by Gov. Richard W. Riley in 1987.