Vista Guild hires new director

A former spokeswoman for the state Agriculture Department has been named director of the organization that advocates for Columbia’s Vista entertainment district.

Meredith Atkinson, who grew up in Columbia and graduated from Clemson University, is the new executive director of the Congaree Vista Guild, the organization said Wednesday. The guild is composed of members representing restaurants, hotels, retailers and homeowners in the district known simply as the Vista.

“We’re looking forward to having Meredith’s leadership as the Vista Guild focuses on smart growth,” said Richard Burts, head of the guild’s board of directors.

Atkinson’s previous experience includes being marketing director for Columbiana Centre and a mall in Augusta, Ga., the guild said. Her college degree is in communications.

She succeeds Sarah Lewis, who left the post earlier this year.

This story was originally published August 27, 2015 at 4:31 PM with the headline "Vista Guild hires new director."