Here are The State’s 20 under 40 honorees. Do you know any of them?
In these uncertain times, it’s only natural for us to worry about the future.
For that reason, The State’s annual 20 under 40 recognition couldn’t be more timely. This is the 17th year that The State and thestate.com have recognized 20 people under the age 40 in the Midlands.
The 20 people honored here are some of the best young adults in the Midlands. They are already having an impact on our community either through their professions or through their volunteer and civic work. You’ll meet people who overcame — or are overcoming — some major life challenges. You’ll meet young adults who saw needs in their communities and took the initiative to meet them.
One member of our class is so impressive that 36 different people nominated her. Another is so respected that when word got out he was being nominated, so many of his employees asked to participate that a drawing had to be held.
Each year, we usually ask the 20 under 40 class to identify a time when their lives changed. The answers are usually strong, but this year’s are particularly powerful. I encourage you to read them.
The 20 people featured below were picked from among 50 nominees. As always, the judging was difficult because the Midlands has a lot of young adults doing great things. Thanks to everyone who submitted a nomination.
While we don’t know what the future brings, we in the Midlands can be comforted that it’s in the hands of some amazing young adults. After reading this special section, I think you’ll agree.
Danielle Bethea-Brown
Assistant director of employment, Lexington Medical Center
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Columbia College, 2005; Master of Arts in Human Resource Development, Webster University, 2007
Family: Husband, Jason P. Brown; daughters, Delaney & Sydney
Community and professional highlights: Appointed to National Talent Acquisition at the American Red Cross at 27 years of age; standardized recruitment for American Red Cross Chapter Services, 2012; awarded “Lexy” at Lexington Medical Center for Best Efficiency, 2016; organized Lexington Medical Center’s first recruitment social and career fair with more than 750 applicants in attendance, 2017/2019; completed Lexington Medical Center’s Leadership Development Program, 2019; staffed the largest hospital expansion in South Carolina history, 2019; Talent Acquisition Leadership Keynotes Board Member, 2020; professional member of the Society for Human Resources Management and the South Carolina Healthcare Human Resources Association; volunteer and donate to a host of organizations: ECPI Advisory Board, Lexington Medical Center’s Women of Hope, Project Hope, Ladies Armed with Knowledge, Kim’s Kids Foundation, Elite Ladies of Fairfield County, Junior Achievement, and Beyond Words Dance Academy.
What’s the best advice you have received? Rome wasn’t built in a day…pace yourself. Slow and steady is the path to long term success. You can have it all. Just not all at once. - Oprah Winfrey
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? It’s a growing, thriving city with a family oriented small-town feel. Even though there are at least two degrees of separation, everyone still knows your name. Columbia is conveniently located between the mountains and the beach, which means a weekend getaway is at your fingertips.
My life changed when: I became the first person in my immediate family to attain a higher education. Knowledge is power. My education has afforded me the opportunity to see life through a different lens and provide access and exposure for my children.
Your nomination mentions your work with Project Hope. Why is that important? Project HOPE is a South Carolina Department of Social Services program that provides education and training in health care to low income individuals. Project Hope has allowed me to empower underprivileged recipients receiving government assistance. Attaining an education and acquiring a career earning wages above the poverty line changed the course of the participants’ lives. This program enabled me to bridge the nursing skill gap for my employer while ensuring the participants secured job placement.
Brenton Brown
Director of public policy and community affairs, S.C. Commission for Minority Affairs
Age: 39
Education: Juris Doctor, University of South Carolina School of Law; Bachelor of Science, The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina
Family: Wife, Jesulon Gibbs Brown, J.D., Ph.D.; son, Hamilton Joshua Brown
Community and professional highlights: Director of public policy and community affairs for the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs, developing and advancing the agency’s policy priorities and community advocacy efforts; former public school educator having served as a school level teacher of the year, department chair, and program coordinator; executive board member for the Columbia Branch of the NAACP; lifelong member of Brookland Baptist Church, West Columbia, Eagle Scout, Boy Scout Troop 74, Brookland Baptist Church
What’s the best advice you have received? A quote by A. Philip Randolph guides my personal and professional endeavors: “A community is democratic only when the humblest and weakest person can enjoy the highest civil, economic, and social rights that the biggest and most powerful possess.” I seek to embody this in every aspect of my life, and I aim to live in such a way that lives are made better through the work in which I engage.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? This is trite, but the Midlands is home. The South is like no other place and nowhere exemplifies the South as does the Midlands. I say this not to idealize who we are as Southerners, but to recognize this place as a beautiful mélange of intersecting people and cultures. There is much to love about home, and we have added to the tapestry of our country as much – if not more so – than any other region.
My life changed when… My wife and I welcomed our son to our family five years ago. Fatherhood has been a humbling experience. I have taken stock of my own growth as I witness the maturation of my son. Due to the fact that I know he is watching me, I have found myself learning to be more loving, patient, temperate, discerning, and deliberate.
What’s the one thing you wish people knew about the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs? I want people to know that the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs exists to advocate for the socioeconomic progress of our state’s racial and ethnic minority communities. Our advocacy efforts are aimed at enriching the lives of these communities through awareness of and engagement with issues that affect policy, equity and prosperity. As of now, we are a small agency, but we are making an indelible mark in the lives of our constituents.
Kelsey Carter
Founder and executive director, Camp Cole
Age: 28
Education: University of South Carolina, Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education and Teaching
Family: Married to Ben Carter, 31
Community and professional highlights: My greatest accomplishments are the impact that I am able to bring to other people’s lives. I am dedicated to serving the youth in our community and found my largest rewards are watching children learn how to persevere through difficult tasks, experience the power of rising as we all lift each other and develop character skills that will last a lifetime.
What’s the best advice you have received? “Whatever you are, be a good one.” Abraham Lincoln
“When given the choice between being right or being kind choose kind.” R.J. Palacio
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? My favorite parts about living in the Midlands are taking walks with our dogs at the Riverwalk, spending Saturdays at Soda City, and watching our beloved Gamecocks play..well, any sport.
My life changed when . . . My life changed when I moved back to Columbia after my mother passed away from a neurological stroke in 2016. My family was already small having lost a brother, Cole, to cancer at the age of 11 in 2004, and it was in their memory that I founded the organization, Camp Cole. Myself, along with the Fawcett family, knew that our community deserved a state-of-the-art facility that prioritizes and focuses on serving our most deserving populations, people with disabilities and life challenges. I want to give back and serve the community that I call family and that has comforted me during my heartaches, trials, and loss.
Why is the work at Camp Cole so important? Camp Cole is providing a camp for all people — a camp that values inclusivity, innovation, and diversity. At Camp Cole, we provide camp experiences for children, teens, and adults with illnesses, disabilities, and life challenges. All people deserve the opportunity to experience the magic of friendship and the connectivity you can share with others experiencing similar hardships.
Kimberlei Davis
Multimedia strategist
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Johnson C. Smith University; Master of Education, Cambridge College; Nursing, Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College
Family: Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people in your life who want you in theirs; the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what. - Unknown
Community and professional highlights: 2020 United Way of the Midlands Blueprint for Leadership; 2020 Congressional Black Caucus Advocacy and Campaign Training; 2019 James E. Clyburn Fellow; 2019 Talented Tenth (SC) DuBois Fellow; 2018 South Carolina Black Pages Top 20 Under 40; 2015 Leadership Orangeburg County; member, Prisma Health-Midlands Patient and Family Advisory Council; member, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; member, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated; member, The Links, Incorporated; charter member, American Business Women’s Association - EmpowHER Chapter; former vice-chair, Orangeburg County First Steps; former board member, Orangeburg Consolidated School District Five Bootstraps Mentoring Foundation; former member, Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands Marketing Advisory Committee; former ambassador family, Orangeburg County March of Dimes March for Babies; miracle family, University of South Carolina Dance Marathon; volunteer, Habitat for Humanity; volunteer, Harvest Hope Food Bank; United States Army Reserve Veteran
What’s the best advice you have received? Protect your peace.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? One of the most rewarding parts about calling the Midlands home, is being a part of so many great networks of outstanding individuals who sharpen me. The Palmetto State has seen its share of tragedies since we’ve been here, but like its people I rise to any challenge with hope.
My life changed when ... Be The Match mailed me a certified letter that said a young boy across the globe had adrenoleukodystrophy and I was his best chance at living. Days leading up to the procedure, some family tried to talk me out of going through with it, warning me about the risks, possible side effects and their apprehension, especially with me being a new mother. But it was because I was a mom of a son who at several times faced his own health challenges — I knew I had to answer the call. Though I suffered complications from the anesthesia following the hours-long surgery and the recipient passed away a few months after the transplant, I would do it again.
What does The LEAP Foundation do? Through small acts of kindness like care bundles for families leaving the neonatal intensive care unit to the bi-annual Eggstravaganza for foster children, The LEAP Foundation aims to sprinkle joy and hope in the lives of these two groups of overcomers.
David Erbacher
Director of sales and marketing, Hyatt Place Columbia/Downtown/The Vista
Age: 32
Education: Bachelor of Science, University of South Carolina, Hotel Restaurant Tourism Management
Family: Wife, Kimberly Erbacher; two daughters, Amelia, 2, and Ellison, 1
Community and professional highlights: 2017 and 2019 Hyatt Place Director of Sales of the Year nominee; ACC college soccer referee, officiated matches such as 2014, 2015 and 2016 ACC women’s semi-finals, 2017 ACC women’s finals, 2018 women’s semi-finals and 2018 and 2019 men’s semi-finals; 2016–present, Richland County Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee; 2016–present, board member of Congaree Vista Guild; past president of the Congaree Vista Guild
What’s the best advice you have received? “Don’t worry about anyone else but yourself. If you focus on what you need to do to achieve your goals, the rest will fall into place. The ones that focus on others, trip on their own feet.”
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? What is not to love? You have an unbelievable university in your backyard, three beautiful rivers that offer endless options, the best zoo in the country, and a city eager to grow and develop with the absolute best of them. Located in the Midlands you are also an hour plus away from the ocean and the mountains, depending on your mood!
My life changed when: I met my wife. She taught me there was more to life than sports and work and how amazing growing a family and understanding other aspects of life are.
Why is it important for you to be involved in the Congaree Vista Guild? Learning the history of The Vista from our board members was very important to me. Being a part of the Vista Guild to me means keeping our foundations intact and carrying the torch to make sure we make the best judgments possible to keep this thriving community moving forward.
Jared Evans
Director of military engagement and veteran initiatives, Palmetto College, University of South Carolina
Age: 34
Education: MBA, University of South Carolina, 2017; Bachelor of Science in Sport and Entertainment Management, University of South Carolina, 2012
Family: I have a beautiful wife, Leah, and two amazing daughters. Brinley, who looks just like her mom, just turned 6 in February, and our little ginger, Marley, who is 3 and a half. We’re also very excited about welcoming our third daughter, Sutton, who is due on Memorial Day.
Community and professional highlights: I have the privilege of serving on the boards of multiple military and first responder non-profits, to include; the 9/11 Remembrance Foundation of SC, Friends of Fisher House, Military Veterans Engagement Council for the Columbia VA Medical Center, and the South Carolina Veterans Higher Education Group. Professionally, my greatest accomplishment has been successfully creating a department at the UofSC, to ensure there is an enhanced commitment to Serving Those Who Serve, which wouldn’t have been possible without the support and guidance of people far smarter than myself.
What’s the best advice you have received? Learn to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations. Constantly pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is the only way to achieve growth. With that comes failure, so don’t let the fear of failure prevent you from growing. Failure isn’t finite. I’ve learned the most about myself during periods of what I perceived to be failure, when in actuality, it was a tremendous opportunity for personal and professional growth.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The people. People make a community what it is, and having the pleasure of working downtown, while living in Irmo, gives me the ability to connect with individuals from different communities, which collectively makes the Midlands such a great place to live. Lake Murray doesn’t hurt either!
My life changed when: When I joined the Marine Corps. Enlisting in the Marines fundamentally altered the direction of my life. It challenged me in ways I never imagined and provided me with perspective and experiences I wouldn’t have otherwise received, that have shaped me into the person I am today.
What opportunities do you see for veterans and military service members within higher education? There is a narrative and perception that veterans and warfighters “wound up” in the military because they weren’t smart enough for college or had no other options. This narrative is directly contradicted by actual data. The OIF/OEF veteran or currently serving warfighters are some of the most successful students within the higher education landscape. We voluntarily enlisted during a time of war, not because we were out of options, but because of an overwhelming desire to serve our country. When we choose to transition out of the service and attend college or pursue a degree while still serving, we have tremendous academic and professional success. Institutions of higher education across the state of South Carolina can provide excellent educational opportunities to the more than 400,000 veterans (and growing) and eight military installations across the state. From there, it is incumbent upon us to keep this highly talented group of individuals in the state to help further grow, develop, and lead the state’s economy into the future.
Sarah A. Ford
Legal director, South Carolina Victim Assistance Network
Age: 38
Education: Bachelor of Arts in history and political science, Columbia College, 2004; Juris Doctor from Charleston School of Law, 2007
Family: Michele Bossi, mother; Frederick Ford, father; Phillip Ford, brother
Community and professional highlights: Legal director at the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network since 2017, leading a team of attorneys and advocates to provide direct legal services to South Carolina crime victims. Former prosecutor with a focus on crimes against women and children.
Teach for America, 2004; SC Bar Young Lawyers Division, Star of the Quarter; South Carolina Women Lawyers Association; South Carolina Bar House of Delegates, 2016-2018; past president of Junior Service League of Orangeburg; Catch the Vision International, Haiti mission team; Columbia College Alumnae Association; volunteer at The Cinderella Project, Orangeburg Calhoun FreeMedical Clinic, Toys for Tots, Showcase Orangeburg
What’s the best advice you have received? My dad gave me a framed copy of Theordore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech when I moved into my first office. And the lesson of that speech has always stuck with me: Don’t worry about what other people will think. Jump in. Do the hard things. Face your fears. Fail. Pick yourself up. Jump back in the arena. Keep daring greatly. I now give a copy of that speech to the young lawyers I work with after they take on their first case. Whether they win or get a less than desired result, they’re in the arena. And that’s what counts.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The people are friendly. There are beautiful lakes and outdoor activities. We’ve got great festivals, amazing local entertainment, lots of shopping, and incredible restaurants. The Midlands are at the center of our great state, in more ways than one. I’m proud to call Orangeburg and the Midlands my home! P.S. Go Gamecocks! And Go Koalas!
My life changed when: I learned that the most difficult lessons and experiences in your life will often lead you to your personal ministry. Those experiences that you think will break you lead you to where you can do the most good for others. It’s the things you think are “wrong” with you that are the very things that connect you and inspire others. Perfection is not attainable. But excellence is. Our “messiness” does not disqualify us from making a difference. It’s what qualifies us.
If people could do your job for a day, what would surprise them the most about SC crime victims? Crime victims are the forgotten people in our criminal justice system. At the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network, we’re working to change that. Victims have the right to be represented to ensure they are not left out of the criminal justice process. Survivors have been victimized in some way, but the system focuses almost exclusively on the perpetrator. Victims have constitutional rights, yet they’re often ignored. They have a right to be heard and included in the system. Victims and citizens deserve a seat at the table where laws and reforms are taking place that directly affect them.
Whitney B. Harrison
Attorney, McGowan, Hood and Felder LLC
Age: 34
Education: Bachelor of Arts with honors in History, Presbyterian College; Juris Doctor, University of South Carolina School of Law.
Family: Parents, Smitty and Terry Harrison; brother and dear friend, Trey Harrison.
Community and professional highlights: I proudly serve on the boards of SC Appleseed (as chair of the litigation committee), SC Bar Foundation (as vice-chair of the Supreme Court Historical Society committee), and SC Association of Justice (as the co-chair for the rules and practice committee). I recently became the first female to receive the SC Bar’s Trial and Appellate Advocacy Award. My most cherished highlight is winning State Fair blue ribbons for lemon, pecan, and vanilla pound cakes using my grandfather’s recipe, which won him blue ribbons in the 1960s.
What’s the best advice you have received? John V. Griffith, former president of Presbyterian College, told me to remember we are heirs of cities we did not build. With our grand inheritances come a responsibility to serve our communities with our time and talents to ensure that those who follow us will receive the same. If we remain steadfast to serving and caring for one another, there are no limits to the cities we can furnish our heirs.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The people. The Midlands is filled with warm, caring people who always take the time to share a smile and start a conversation. Whether you are strolling through the Soda City Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning or popping into Tiffany’s Bakery in the northeast to grab a treat, you will find a friend — and often a brand new one. We have so much to be proud of here in the Midlands, but for me there is no higher accolade than being known as a community that values kindness and a sense of inclusion that makes everyone feel like family.
My life changed when: I declined doctors’ advice to take a leave of absence from law school and instead completed my final year while being sick. At the time, I had just undergone a surgery to prevent melanoma from spreading that involved removing a grapefruit-sized mass. Returning to law school hooked to tubes and a machine began my two-year fight not only to heal but also to pass the bar examination. Although it took years to fully appreciate it, my decision to trust the quiet inner voice saying “I am strong enough to try” was the most significant decision I will likely ever make. Today that resilient voice guides all aspects of my life.
One nominator praised your ability to overcome failures. How did you learn to do that?: With practice! I have failed in life. Repeatedly. Each time, I strive to own the failure, which includes grieving it and moving forward. In that way I have learned that when something matters, it’s worth trying again.
J. Benjamin Jackson III, MD
University of South Carolina: associate professor, director of orthopaedic research, medical director foot and ankle division
Age: 37
Education: MBA, 2020, USC Darla-Moore School of Business; MD, 2008, Wake Forest University; Bachelor of Science, 2004, Mars Hill College
Family: Wife, Jill Atkins Jackson; children, Noah (12), Owen (11), Wyatt (8), Webb (5)
Community and professional highlights: $2.9-million Department of Defense grant to study stress fractures; vice president, S.C. Orthopaedic Association; U.S. Soccer National Referee, 2014-2018; MLS; MLS Reserve League, NASL, USL, PDL Referee; NCAA national referee, 2013-2017; more than 20 NCAA championship matches officiated, including NCAA Division 1 Men’s Elite Eight match; associate professor, University of South Carolina School of Medicine; director of orthopaedic research; more than 20 peer reviewed publications; nine book chapters; medical mission to Bonne Fin, Haiti; member of Riverland Hills Baptist Church and youth soccer coach; Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and American Association Orthopaedic Surgeons; emerging Leader, American Orthopaedic Association; journal reviewer, Foot and Ankle International, Foot and Ankle Orthopaedics, Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research; NCAA Academic All-American, 2000 and 2001; South Atlantic Conference Scholar Athlete, 2002 and 2003; South Atlantic Conference cross country second team All-Conference, 2000 and 2001.
What’s the best advice you have received? “Do nothing out of vein conceit or selfish ambition, but in humility consider others more significant than yourself.” Philippians 2:3
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The people. I’m was born in Orangeburg and then grew up in Lexington. The people in the Midlands are genuine, caring and vibrant. Lake Murray and the short drive to the beach or mountains make it a great location to live.
My life changed when: I was working in the operating room in Lexington and met Dr. Thomas Gross, a local orthopaedic surgeon. He encouraged me to work on research with him. He was an amazing mentor while I was in undergrad and taught me about orthopaedics, how to read x-rays and modeled how to be a caring physician and surgeon. He inspired me to become an orthopaedic surgeon and researcher.
Can you talk about the benefits of your research into Teriparatide? Teriparatide is naturally made hormone that has been used to treat osteoporosis (thin bones). It has been noted that it increases the body’s ability and speed at which is makes bone. This encourage us to use it to treat stress fractures in our athletes. We and other team physicians noted the significant improvement in bone healing. This inspired the grant application and the DoD believed that this may have a significant impact on the #1 reason for lost training times in troops, stress fractures.
Chanda Jefferson
2020 South Carolina Teacher of the Year; Fairfield County School District
Age: 33
Education: Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences, 2009, University of South Carolina; Masters of Teaching Secondary Sciences, 2011, University of South Carolina; Masters of Education in Public School Building Leadership, 2019, Columbia University
Family: Mother, Martha Jefferson; father and stepmother, Henry and Helen Harris; sisters Dora Simmons, Earline Frazier, Tamala Harris, and Melody Harris; brothers, Willie Jefferson and Earl Jefferson
Community and professional highlights: 2020 South Carolina Teacher of the Year; Presidential Award for Math and Science nominee; S.C. Education Policy Fellowship class of 2020; Leadership South Carolina class of 2020; 2018-2019 Fairfield County School District Teacher of the Year; Fairfield County Education Foundation Board of Directors; 2018 Proclamation for DNA Day in South Carolina; South Carolina Future Minds Teacher Cabinet Member; Amazon Educator Academy Advisory Committee; Educational Network Partner with the National Institutes of Health; 2015 Society of Developmental Biology Speaker; 2014 Seimens Science Teacher as Researcher; 2014 South Carolina Outstanding Biology Teacher Awardee; 2013 Princeton University Molecular Biology Institute Scholar
What’s the best advice you have received? Speak up about things that matter, help those in need, and love your neighbor.
From an early age, I felt called to help others. The overwhelming feeling of joy that I experience while serving keeps me going, because I know that all it takes is touching one life to make the world a better place. I believe that everyone was brought into this world to make a difference so it is my goal to inspire someone each day.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? I moved to the Midlands to attend college at the University of South Carolina and I have been here for fifteen years, so I absolutely love the Metro. I enjoy spending my weekends shopping at the Soda City Market, taking walks at Sesquicentennial State Park, cheering on the Gamecocks, and even kayaking down the Broad River. The Midlands is conveniently located so I can travel anywhere in the state in just a few hours. The wide range of activities in the area creates a city feel but it is just the right size to offer opportunities for meaningful connections.
My life changed when: In the Spring of 2011, former assistant principal of C.A. Johnson High School Wilfred Rogers walked into the Home Depot where I was working part-time as a cashier and told me that his school was hiring science teachers. Soon after that, I interviewed and accepted my first teaching position. That was one of the best decisions that I made in my life!
What’s been the most rewarding thing about being named the South Carolina Teacher of the Year? It is such an honor to represent all of the hardworking teachers of South Carolina and the students that they serve each day. Teachers go into classrooms to help shape the minds of future generations while taking on many roles to prepare them for success. We are not “just teachers,” but professionals who should be valued for our expertise. The job of a teacher is tough, yet rewarding, and as I travel around the state I encourage teachers to continue to be a light for their students and be advocates for our profession. I also enjoy celebrating the great things that are happening in classrooms across our state. SC Teachers Rock!
Ben Johnson
Research director, S.C. Department of Commerce
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Science, Finance and Marketing, 2002, University of South Carolina; MBA, 2015, University of South Carolina.
Family: Husband, Andres Bernal
Community and professional highlights: Board member, USC/Columbia Technology Incubator; SC Logistic; Eau Claire Development Corporation; former president and board member, AIDS Benefit Foundation; volunteer, Hootie and the Blowfish Foundation; Leadership Columbia, class of 2008.
What’s the best advice you have received? “Nothing changes if nothing changes.” I’m not sure where I originally saw this, but it motivates me in so many aspects of my life. It is easy to get bogged down on things that are not going the way we might like them to go, but we keep doing the same things that got us there, expecting a different outcome. We should take an active role rather than letting life happen to you.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? I believe that the Midlands is such an underappreciated area of the country. I’ve had amazing opportunities for professional growth here. Our three interstates make every corner of our city feel like it is 20 minutes away at the most. Columbia has great restaurants, tons of concerts, and because of our low cost of housing compared to other cities, people have more disposable income so that they can actually take advantage of those things. Most of all, I like the laid- back, relaxed attitude of the people. Generally speaking, people here are friendly and cheerful.
My life changed when: In 2010, I had the opportunity to go on a Rotary Group Study Exchange for five weeks to the Parana state of Brazil. It was an eye-opening experience as we stayed with different families, shared cultures and experienced life outside the United States. It expanded my curiosity to explore other cultures, and as a result I’ve made an effort to travel as much as possible, and try to see life from as many points of view as possible.
What’s the greatest opportunity for South Carolina to continue developing economically? South Carolina can continue set itself apart from other states by strategically developing its vibrant workforce. Since 2010, South Carolina has been one of the fastest growing states in the country, both by population as well as through economic development efforts. We are tied for having the lowest unemployment rate in the country, so most everyone who wants a job is able to get one. That said, we have to keep working to empower South Carolinians to grow and change as the economy does, particularly in the digital space. It is imperative to give students as well as adults opportunities to explore career paths and expand their skill sets through K-12 education, the technical college system and university system.
Hilary L. Lichterman, Ph.D.
Associate director of residence life, residence life housing, University of South Carolina
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Spanish for the Professions and Psychology from Marquette University, Milwaukee; Master of Arts in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education from Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana; Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration in Higher Education at the University of South Carolina.Family: Parents, Lorin and Judy Lichterman; brother, Eric; extended family members; chosen friends
Community and professional highlights: Serve as the associate director of residence life in University Housing at the University of South Carolina, July 2010 to present;; University 101: The Student In the University instructor, 2011 to present; University 401: Graduation with Leadership Distinction (third semester) instructor; Faculty for ACPA — College Student Educators International Residential Curriculum Institute, 2014-2018, faculty for Southeastern Association of Housing Officers Regional Entry Level Institute, 2015, Faculty for ACPA — College Student Educators International Institute on the Curricular Approach, 2019-present; faculty for the Association of College and University Housing Officers – International National Housing Training Institute, June 2020; presented at numerous local, regional, national, and international conferences; forthcoming book with four dear colleagues, The Curricular Approach to Student Affairs: A Revolutionary Shift for Learning Beyond the Classroom; Girls on the Run of Columbia board member, since October 2019; Girl Scouts of South Carolina — Mountains to Midlands, Powerful Women Summit emcee and featured guest speaker, Columbia, January 2017; Avon Breast Cancer Walk volunteer with on-site donations processing, October 2012.
What’s the best advice you have received? “Time will pass one way or another, make good use of the time you are given,” and “Some of the most important words in life are please and thank you.”
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The sense of community in the Midlands is special. People, who hail from near and far, make our home a place where tradition runs deep yet change and growth are abundant. The festivals, trails and outdoor spaces, local businesses, and food are some of my favorite highlights. Having grown up in southeastern Wisconsin, the pimento cheese, balmy weather, and short drives to the coast and mountains make me happy.
My life changed when: College as an 18-year-old opened my head and heart in ways words cannot begin to describe. Engaging in community service in the Milwaukee, WI community, serving as a resident assistant in my residence hall, and forming bonds with peers, faculty, and campus staff influenced my career path. My career brings me much joy and allows me to “pay it forward” for students to explore and pursue their life passions. I have equally found my hobbies and passions, such as Zumba/fitness, reading, cooking, and photography, as a result of my exposure to diverse people, ideas, places, and experiences.
You are described as a leading scholar and champion of the residential curricular movement. Describe what that is. Learning happens everywhere on a college campus. Residence halls, and other environments beyond the traditional classroom, are unique spaces for students to learn in alignment with the academic mission of the institution, decades of research and scholarship on college students, and employability outcomes. A residential curriculum is a systemic way to be purposeful and strategic about how educators who work with college students beyond the classroom can identify learning priorities for students in their institutional context and then make decisions about initiatives, experiences, resources, and outcomes to align with those learning priorities. My dissertation, a labor of love, Organizational Perspective on Implementing the Residential Curriculum Approach: An Ethnographic Case Study, is the first published research on the curricular approach in student affairs and specifically in housing and residence life.
Liz H. McCary
Vice president of marketing, Colliers International-South Carolina
Age: 35
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina in Marketing and Entrepreneurship with a minor in Spanish.
Family: My family includes my amazing parents, Walter and Beth Howell; a younger sister and brother-in-law, Tracey and Anthony Maier; my in-laws, Mack and Ann McCary; and lastly, but certainly not least, my husband Luke McCary, also a 20 under 40 recipient.
Community and professional highlights: President-elect of SMPS Palmetto Chapter; 2018 CREW Midlands president and current board member; authored “Celebrating Small Victories with Metastatic Breast Cancer” on healthline.com; 2019 Breasties for Life. Breasties for Liz walk team raised over $10,000 for breast cancer in SC, NC and GA. 2020 video interview on Healthline.com called “How I Cope”; program speaker at the 2020 Southeast SMPS Conference “Course Correction: Turning Adversity into Opportunity”; 2016 Columbia Business Monthly’s “Best & Brightest”; 2016 graduate of CREW Network’s Leadership Certification Program; 2015 Recipient of the President’s Award at Colliers International South Carolina; 2015 Colliers International Best New Business Proposal in the Americas; 2016 Recipient of Colliers International USA Marketing Contributor of the Year; 2016 recipient of Colliers International USA Best Market Intelligence Initiative; 2018 recipient of Colliers International USA ONE Colliers Award; certified BBQ Pitmaster and participate on the East Coast Smoke BBQ competition team.
What’s the best advice you have received? Whenever I am faced with a tough situation I think back to advice my parents gave me years ago.They advised me to step back from the issue and determine will my response 1. Hurt me? 2. Hurt someone else? or 3. Is it the right thing to do? This advice has served me well in all parts of my life and continues to help me make decisions that I am proud of and keeps me true to myself and my values.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? Hands down, the people. The community in the Midlands makes this city a great place to live. Both Luke and I are transplants to Columbia — we came for higher education and work opportunities. But Columbia embraced us and we are honored to call this city home.
My life changed when: Until this past year, I took many life-changing moments for granted like graduating from college, getting my first full-time job, buying my first home, meeting and marrying my husband and so much more. But I realize today that all those moments prepared me for the biggest life changing moment, which has been fighting stage 4 breast cancer since my diagnosis at the age of 33. Tomorrow isn’t promised and now more than ever I believe in celebrating the small victories in life, as well as the big.
You are described as a leader of Colliers’ United Way campaign. Why is that work important? If our community’s health, education and people are not strong, then we have no foundation in which to grow. Giving back to the community I live in is really important to me. I give to help others and to ensure we have a strong foundation for the next generation. But each time I help, I realize I grow and receive so much more from the experience. United Way is a great organization that offers many different opportunities to get involved — whether through time and/or monetary gifts.
Mark C. McLawhorn
Attorney, McLawhorn Legal, LLC
Age: 35
Education: University of South Carolina, Bachelor of Arts Political Science, Minor in Economics; University of South Carolina School of Law, Juris Doctor; the Chinese University of Hong Kong Faculty of Law, Master of Laws Chinese Business Law
Family: Parents, James and Barbara McLawhorn; sister, Karla Hawkins; brother, James McLawhorn III; brother-in-law, Eric Hawkins Sr.; five nephews
Community and professional highlights: My experience as an assistant Federal Public Defender taught me to think critically about how socioeconomics and the lack of educational opportunities impact the criminal justice system. Working as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Bruce Williams of the South Carolina Court of Appeals and the Honorable Carl E. Stewart, then-Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and as an associate with attorney I.S. Leevy Johnson played a pivotal role in my professional development. Volunteering at career day at local elementary schools, back-to-school events, and the Columbia Urban League’s Christmas Basket Program allow me an opportunity to give back to the community. Also, participating as a fellow of the 2016 Richard W. Riley Diversity Leaders Initiative was a rewarding experience.
What’s the best advice you have received? The best advice I have received is a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
If you can’t fly, then run.
If you can’t run, then walk.
If you can’t walk, then crawl,
But by all means, keep moving forward.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? As a native of Columbia, I have witnessed the renaissance of this thriving city through urban development and cultural events. I enjoy attending festivals and entertainment events such as the Columbia International Festival, the Harambee Festival, the Latin Festival, and collegiate sporting events. After traveling to six continents, I can truly say that Columbia’s residents are some of the friendliest people in the world.
My life changed when: My life changed after I received a full-tuition scholarship and enrolled as a student at the Chinese University of Hong Kong Faculty of Law. Within a period of an eighteen-hour flight, I left a place of comfort and arrived in an urban metropolis of over seven million people who spoke different languages, ate diverse foods, and practiced different religions. This experience broadened my perspective on Chinese culture and globalization.
Your nomination says you visited a school in Zambia. What was that like? My friends and I donated school supplies to the OHCM School in Livingstone, Zambia. During our visit, we learned that the school’s top need was an additional toilet. The school had one toilet for 200 students. This was a humbling experience because we often take necessities for granted. Despite this hardship, the school’s modest entrance sign, which was painted on a concrete wall, captured the true richness of the school. The sign stated, “Doing What Others Say Can’t Be Done.”
Shayla Rae Merritt
Associate, marketing and communications manager, Stevens & Wilkinson
Age: 33
Education: University of South Carolina, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, Master of Mass Communication, Concentration: Integrated Communication; Syracuse University, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, B.S., Public Affairs, Concentration.
Family: Charles Ray Merritt, father; Louisa Frazier-Merritt, mother; Philip Frazier, brother, and Regina Tennon, sister
Community and professional highlights: Midlands Business Leadership Group Council, Board Diversity Task Force, 2019-present; Mental Illness Recovery Center Board of Trustees, 2018/2019-2021; Talented Tenth Board of Directors, 2019-present; MyCarolina Alumni Association, University of South Carolina, Black Alumni Council board member, 2019-2021; Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Columbia Advisory Board, 2018-present; City Center Partnership, marketing committee, 2016-present; University of South Carolina, School of Journalism and Mass Communications: Frazier-Merritt Family Scholarship – Proudly Supporting Women + Students of Color Interested in S.T.E.M. and Journalism, founder; AIA South Carolina- Marketing and Communications Committee, 2018-present; Carolina Women for Change (CW4C) – Board of Directors; Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Columbia Class of 2018; AIA South Carolina-2019 Presidential Citation Award; “30 Under 35” — Columbia Business Monthly Magazine, 2017.
What’s the best advice you have received? “Always be yourself – no matter what!”
At times, I think it’s easy to just be the person others want you to be. It was my family who taught me that this is foolish. Constantly walking on eggshells around others who think you should act, sound, or even look a certain way only hurts you. People will never get to know who you are if you spend time worrying about what they think. Those who love you for exactly who you are are the ones you want around. They know and appreciate your spirit!
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? There is an energy in Columbia that I just don’t think you will find in other parts of the state. The experiences that are available here are un-matched — experiences that I just don’t think would be readily available, or even offered, to someone my age. I love that there are so many young change-makers out and about in the community actively making our region a better place. It’s amazing to both see and to be a part of. I am always encouraged by those around me to get involved, which I then encourage others to do as well.
On a personal note, I love Columbia’s weather. While I am a very proud native of Buffalo, N.Y., the weather there is snowy and extremely cold most of the year. As someone who really loves to be outside, I enjoy knowing that in February, for instance, I will still be able to go running or walking outside. You just can’t beat a 70-degree day in the dead of winter!
My life changed when: About two years ago my father was diagnosed with dementia and our world fundamentally changed. Watching my family navigate this journey with him has been truly eye opening. In a lot of ways it has taught me to be more present. To make each moment count, no matter how big or small.
You advocate for mental health awareness and sit on the board of MIRCI. Why is that important? I think the real reason I advocate for more awareness surrounding mental health and homelessness is because it is a topic of conversation that is often overlooked, especially in the African American community. Statistically we (as a group) are 10% more likely to suffer from psychological distress and 40% more likely to experience or become homeless. Insert MIRCI. For more than 60 years, MIRCI has provided homeless outreach, behavioral health care, permanent supportive housing, benefits assistance, payee services, and youth services to all of their clients in Lexington and Richland counties. Their staff work hard to make sure their clients have access to the best services, all while advocating for and educating the community about what it means to both experience homelessness and live with a mental illness. I proudly serve on the board because I strongly and wholeheartedly believe in their mission and vision.
Chynna A. Phillips, MSW, MPH
Director of research and policy, Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina
Age: 29
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Sociology, Xavier University, 2012; Master of Public Health, Health Services, Policy and Management, University of South Carolina, 2018; Master of Social Work, Health and Mental Health, University of South Carolina, 2018
Family: An amazing husband of 5 years, Landry Phillips; our beautiful son, Landry Phillips II, 3.
Community and professional highlights: My husband and I, along with a small group of investors, are set to open our first business, Regal Lounge Men’s Barbershop and Spa, in the heart of downtown Columbia this spring. Professional Leadership: Advisory Board Member, University of South Carolina Collaborative on Race and Reconciliation, 2019-present; national advisory member, Generations United, 2017-present; chair, city of Columbia 2020 Complete Count Committee, 2019-present; Columbia Business Monthly’s Best and Brightest 35 and under, class of 2019; member, Midlands Business Leadership Group, diversity task force, 2019-present; chair, Statewide Kinship Care Advisory Council, 2017-2019; member, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. 2008-present.
What’s the best advice you have received? “Every person you meet is either a teacher or a mirror.”
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The Midlands is where my husband and I blossomed into the best version of ourselves. After coming here to attend graduate school, Go Gamecocks!, we quickly fell in love. While enrolled in both the College of Social Work and the Arnold School of Public Health, faculty and staff challenged my world view and encouraged me to think differently about what it meant to give back to the health and well-being of my community. It was because of connections made in graduate school that I began my career within the philanthropic sector. It was the Darla Moore School of Business that nurtured my husband’s passions and equipped him with the mentors and tools needed to make his vision of owning a small business come to life. At its core, my reason for my love of the Midlands/South Carolina is the many people I have met who have mentored and poured so much love and light into my life. People who are dynamic enough to be leaders within their sector or field, but yet humble enough to meet up for coffee and share their wisdom.
My life changed when: My life changed on January 15, 2017, 12:30 p.m., when I became a mother. I was given a new definition of love, sacrifice, and happiness all at the same moment. I am happy to be on this journey of parenthood with such an amazing life partner.
Describe the work you’re doing with the South Carolina Statewide Kinship Care Council: The term Kinship Care is used when a child is being raised by grandparents, another relative or family friend. As immediate past chair of the SC Statewide Kinship Care Advisory Council, I worked with others toward a mission of raising awareness statewide on the challenges kinship families face by lifting up their voices to key stakeholders while offering practice and policy recommendations to strengthen resources, engagement and supports for kinship families. This role has introduced me to a strong network of advocates who simply want a South Carolina where every child and family can thrive.
Mal Reeder
Midlands Technical College, chair of Faculty Council, Humanities Department faculty member
Age: 33
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, University of South Carolina, 2008; Master of Arts in Communication Studies, Colorado State University, 2010; Graduate Certificate in Women’s Studies, Colorado State University, 2010.
Family: Robert C. Reeder, father
Community and professional highlights: Midlands Technical College, chair of Faculty Council, Humanities Department faculty member, co-facilitator of the Faculty Learning Community, faculty advisor; member of the 2020 class of the SC Technical College System’s Leadership Academy; member of the 2020 class of the Education Leaders Experience; 2018 graduate of Leadership Columbia, weekly volunteer at Transitions.
What’s the best advice you have received? Leslie Knope once said, “We need to remember what’s important in life: friends, waffles, work. Or waffles, friends, work. Doesn’t matter, but work is third.” But if we are talking about the best advice I have ever received from a real person, it would be this: never stop being excited about the little things.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? The humidity. Just kidding! I love all the little things: Chris Trainor’s Twitter. The addition of curly fries at Colonial Life Arena. Vista Lights. Ms. Gail at the Publix on Gervais. The jokes on the State Farm sign on Millwood Ave. $5 Firefly berm tickets. The view coming across the Gervais Street Bridge into town. Gamecock Jesus. The dill popcorn at the Nick.
My life changed when: I turned 30 and backpacked across Europe by myself. Anyone who knows me will admit that I am quite routine. Most would say I am type A and very tightly wound. My whole life I have strived for perfection. I turn things in early. Panic when things go wrong. I’m guilty of living life from the pages of my calendar and the “to-do” items on a list. At 30 I felt burnout, lost, and most importantly, alone. I needed a reset. And thus, I decided to take a solo trip across Europe. I didn’t do much planning. I asked a few people for recommendations. I packed a piece of notebook paper with some simple notes and stashed a travel book I borrowed from my aunt and uncle into a bag and off I went. What happened in the coming days changed me in ways I will never be able to describe. Finding time to challenge ourselves, for self-reflection and self-love, is something we should all do more often. My life changed when I spent time with me.
How would describe Midlands Tech’s value to the our community? At MTC, we take pride in playing a major role in helping strengthen our communities through our students’ success. More than 82% of graduates remain here to live, work, and flourish. They become entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, accountants — the list is endless. The point is — MTC provides our students the educational foundation to help them become the citizens who will contribute to the economic vitality and future sustainability of the region. Our students are among the greatest gifts to the Midlands.
Josh Shearer
Club Manager, Sam’s Club
Age: 40
Education: I had the good fortune of attending one semester at The Pennsylvania College of Technology, a branch of Penn State University. When someone with Sam’s Club had a very simple conversation with me about potential leadership, I decided to take a different educational path, one where I would learn the ins and outs of the business world firsthand. I did not return to college after that one semester. I instead pursued a full-time opportunity with Sam’s Club. Throughout my career, I have learned more valuable lessons than I ever could have learned through simple book teaching. However, through personal effort to continue studying, reading, and conducting my own research online, I have been able to advance my ‘book smart’ knowledge and learn important skills necessary for understanding the business world.
Family: My family consists of my lovely wife, Amy, whom I have been married to for 16 years, and my two teenage boys, Dakota and Bryce.
Community and professional highlights: In terms of community and professional highlights, there are two things that stand out to me on this. One of my proudest moments in my professional career was when our club was honored with the Market Club of the Year award last year. The sheer joy and sense of accomplishment that I witnessed from my team was simply amazing. As far as a community highlight, I remember vividly going to a Run Hard 5K race to run with my youngest son. When we were getting ready there was a little boy that did not have a family sponsor to run with him at all, so he did not want to participate. Without hesitation, my son, Bryce, said, “Dad, I will run with a friend.” This allowed me to talk the young boy into running with me. I remember him stopping at the halfway point to take a quick break and then we continued on to finish the race. This was rewarding because not only was I encouraged by my son acknowledging a concern before us and identifying a way to help, but I was also blessed to see the pure joy and appreciation on the young boy’s face once he realized he had someone willing to take the time to motivate and run with him.
What’s the best advice you have received? The best advice I have ever received came from one of my previous leaders and mentors. To this day, it is something I strive to live by. He told me that no matter what I do or where I go to never forget where I came from.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? For one, I enjoy the people. How can you not love the good old southern hospitality? I also love the fact that within a short drive in any direction, you can experience anything from the beach, the city, the great outdoors, the mountains, and so much more.
My life changed when: My life changed the moment I found myself in a place where I was unsure which direction I should go or what I should focus on next. At that time, I turned to my late grandfather, Paw, for guidance. Paw explained to me that I needed to focus on establishing my family and doing whatever what was necessary to take care of and provide for them. That’s when my wife and I decided to move with the company and leave Pennsylvania to start our new life in South Carolina.
You started working at a Sam’s Club as a tire installer at age 18. How were you able to advance to become a decorated store manager? That’s actually a pretty simple question for me to answer. From the time I was very young, my dad always focused on instilling the importance of work ethic within me. Because of that, I started to set achievable goals as I entered the workforce. I then focused on the people around me. How could I learn from them? How could I get them on my side to help achieve our goals? I quickly understood that when things go well, the praise goes to the team. When things do not go as planned or even fail, then I own that, not them. It was my team, both past and present, that got me to this point. Striving to develop people to their fullest potential is the key to success.
Helen Reneé Tison
Associate vice president and Columbia office lead at Michael Baker International
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Science in Engineering, University of South Carolina, class of 2003; Dreher High School, class of 1998
Family: Parents, Tim and Debbie Tison; sister, Ashley Tison Freeman, brother-in-law, John Freeman; soon-to-be niece or nephew, Baby Freeman (due May 2020)
Community and professional highlights: Registered Professional Engineer in South Carolina, Missouri, North Carolina, and Virginia; promoted to associate vice president for Michael Baker International; promoted to the Columbia office lead for the Columbia office that has a staff of over 80 employees; American Public Works Association of South Carolina — Midlands Branch, president-elect for 2020-2021; American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina and S.C. Department of Transportation Partnering Committee; member of the USC College of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Industrial Advisory Board; volunteer mentor and jury panel participant, USC College of Civil and Environmental Engineering; charter member of Women in Transportation South Carolina; Volunteer with the Midlands Reading Consortium, United Way of the Midlands; and member of the Women in Philanthropy of South Carolina.
What’s the best advice you have received? The best advice I have ever received and now pass along is “bring solutions not problems.” As someone who finds problem solving fun, this resonated with me. We run into problems everyday day both in our professional and personal lives. Focusing on solving the problem is a positive approach to life that always yields better results than dwelling on the problem.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? I love living in the Midlands because it is home. I grew up in Columbia and went to USC. Family is so important to me and here, I am surrounded by whole family (except for a few relatives in Kansas) and lifelong friends. My favorite memories took place here and include spending summers on Lake Murray and cheering on the Gamecocks in the fall. Columbia has grown so much, and while it’s a big city by South Carolina standards, it still has small town charm. It’s somewhere I can make a difference. My roots are here, and I have found my wings here too – it’s the best of both worlds for me.
My life changed when: A pivotal point in my life was when I decided to major in Civil Engineering. Growing up, I liked to draw and create but not exactly in an artistic way. I like coloring inside the lines and symmetry. I thought that engineering would allow for a more structured creativity. With the path I chose, I get to design complicated highways and watch them as they are constructed.
You are a charter member of the new South Carolina Chapter of Women in Transportation Society. Why is the organization important? Women in Transportation is an international organization dedicated to building the future of transportation through the global advancement of women. Transportation is my professional background and I am very passionate about it. I am glad that I am a part of this organization’s roots in South Carolina.
Robert L. Wells
Brookland-Cayce High School physical education teacher, head varsity basketball coach, assistant athletic director; trustee at Brookland-Baptist Church
Age: 34
Education: Newberry College Bachelor of Science in Leisure Services and Minor in Sports Management, 2007. P.A.C.E participant (Alternative Teaching Program), 2010
Family: Wife, April Wells; son, Robert L. Wells, Jr. , 4; daughter; Aubrey Wells, 5 months
Community/Professional Highlights: 2017 Lexington County Basketball Coach of the Year, 2017 Region Coach of the Year, 2017 Brookland Cayce Basketball Region Championship, 2017 3A Lower State Runner-up, 2017 Brookland Baptist Men’s Day Committee Member, 2017 Installed as Trustee at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia, 2018 Vacation Bible School Teacher, 2020 won 100 career games at BCHS, Physical Education Teacher for 10 years (2 years at Hopkins Elementary and 8 years at BCHS), Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
What’s the best advice you have received? For I know the plans I have for you, “declares the Lord,” plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
Everyone has different talents and strengths. If we all give our talents and strengths to the Lord, he understands how and when to help us use them. No need to stress, he has major blessings in store for our future.
What do you like most about living in the Midlands? I was raised in the Midlands and met my beautiful wife, April, here. I love my church, Brookland-Baptist, which I have attended since childhood. I enjoy attending Gamecocks football and basketball games with my family.
My life changed when: During my sophomore year at Newberry College when I injured my ACL playing football. The injury helped me understand that ACADEMICS is more important than ATHLETICS. It made me resonate on the question, “What is your plan when an injury ends your sports career?”
What’s the most rewarding aspect of coaching high school basketball at your alma mater? The opportunity to teach and coach life lessons to young men that were raised in the same neighborhood, walk the same hallways, and wear the same Bearcat jersey that I wore. I am very blessed to have the opportunity each day and pray that GOD continues to allow me to be a vessel to the young men I coach and teach at Brookland-Cayce High School.
This story was originally published March 29, 2020 at 7:00 AM.