The USC Salkehatchie Leadership Institute, in collaboration with SouthernCarolina Alliance, is actively engaged in its 2025 leadership development program, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Salkehatchie region's dynamics. This year’s program is structured to deliver in-depth sessions and immersive experiences focused on leadership skills, economic growth, and community impact.
“Leadership Salkehatchie provides a robust understanding of the region’s challenges and opportunities,” said Shelby Broomfield, director of the Salkehatchie Leadership Institute. “By engaging with key stakeholders and experiencing firsthand the diverse economic and community landscapes, participants are gaining the tools and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders.”
The program commenced with an intensive retreat designed to explore diverse leadership styles, including analytical, experimental, practical, and relational approaches. This foundational experience aimed to enhance participants' self-awareness and collaborative abilities. Following the retreat, the class has participated in a series of informative sessions and tours, designed to provide a rich understanding of the region.
Key program highlights include:
- Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Tour: Participants gained firsthand knowledge of the diverse contractors operating at SRNS, their respective missions, and the significant regional impact of this critical facility.
- SouthernCarolina Alliance Economic Development Workshop: This session provided valuable insights into the strategic economic development initiatives underway in the Salkehatchie region.
- South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (SC DEW) Workforce Development Session: Participants explored workforce development programs and initiatives specifically targeting rural areas, understanding the challenges and opportunities in this sector.
- Innovative Poultry Products Tour: The class visited this locally grown manufacturing facility in Olar, S.C., gaining a practical understanding of the role and impact of industrial cornerstones in rural community development.
- City of Hardeeville Tour: This tour offered participants further insights into the diverse communities and economic landscapes within the region.
“SouthernCarolina Alliance is proud to once again partner with USC Salkehatchie in sponsoring this important leadership program. As the regional economic development organization recruiting industries to our seven counties, SCA understands more than most that our people are our region’s greatest asset,” said Danny Black, President and CEO of SouthernCarolina Alliance. “We need to foster strong partners who understand the importance of economic development in improving the quality of life for our rural communities, and these are the future and current leaders who will be shaping our communities for decades to come. We are pleased to welcome them to this prestigious program and count them among the transformational leaders in our part of South Carolina.”
Participants in the 2025 Leadership Salkehatchie Program:
- Tammy Aguilar, Kimberly Clark Corporation (Barnwell)
- Ashley Bowers, Genesis Healthcare Inc. dba Walterboro Family Care (Colleton)
- Taylor Boykin, SouthernCarolina Alliance (Jasper)
- Ronald Brown, Retired (Barnwell)
- Selanda Brown, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (Barnwell)
- Jennifer Combs, City of Hardeeville (Jasper)
- Adrian Crawford, High Altitude Drone Services/Events Manager for Southern Palmetto Regional Chamber of Commerce (Barnwell)
- Marlon Creech, Town of Allendale Councilman/C4C Trucking, LLC-Owner (Allendale)
- Wilma Edmonds, Edmonds Insurance Agency Inc./Town of Govan-Mayor (Bamberg)
- Jacqueline Gallagher, USC Salkehatchie (Allendale/Colleton)
- Se'khu Gentle-Hadjo, Allendale County Fire Rescue/Chief of the Yamassee Indian Tribe (Allendale)
- Jeriah Greene, Hampton County School District (Colleton/Hampton)
- Samantha Haering, USC Beaufort (Beaufort)
- Hilary Hindman, Barnwell County (Barnwell)
- Stephanie Hutto, SRP Federal Credit Union (Barnwell)
- Paula Rhodes, Hampton Soil & Water Conservation District (Hampton)
- Blakely Stroble, Gehl Food and Beverages Southeast (Colleton)
About USC Salkehatchie Leadership Institute:
The USC Salkehatchie Leadership Institute is dedicated to fostering leadership development in the Salkehatchie region. Through comprehensive programs and partnerships, the institute aims to empower individuals to drive positive change and contribute to the region's growth.
About SouthernCarolina Alliance:
SouthernCarolina Alliance is the regional economic development organization providing economic development recruitment to the seven counties of Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties in South Carolina. SCA’s mission is to improve the quality of life for the region’s citizens through job creation.