Leadership Salkehatchie participants recently gathered at the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie for a session focused on regional prosperity and the vital intersection of economic development and education. The event featured a keynote address from South Carolina Deputy Secretary of Commerce Ashely Teasdel, who shared insights into the state's evolving economic landscape and the critical role of rural leadership.

Teasdel emphasized that economic development at its core is about expanding access to jobs, education, and entrepreneurship to create a better future for all South Carolinians. She noted that the South Carolina Department of Commerce is operating with a strategic framework aimed at bringing high-value industries—such as advanced energy, life sciences, and corporate headquarters—to every corner of the state.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that momentum reaches every corner of the state, including rural communities like yours,” Teasdel told the group. She highlighted that in the past year, over 40% of the state’s announced capital investment and new jobs were located in rural Tier 3 and Tier 4 counties, the highest percentage since 2010. Teasdel also discussed the Rural Development Strategic Planning Initiative, which provides funding and strategic planning for county seats to improve community connectivity and vitality, with projects currently progressing in Walterboro and Bamberg.

The session also included a "Leading our Schools" panel discussion featuring regional superintendents Dr. Vallerie Cave (Allendale County), Dr. Laura Hickson (Jasper County), and Dr. Glenda Sheffield (Hampton County). The panel explored the essential role education plays in shaping the future of the Salkehatchie region and preparing a workforce ready for the high-value industries being recruited to the state.

Leadership Salkehatchie, a program of the Salkehatchie Leadership Institute, empowers emerging leaders across Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. Through expert-led sessions and tours participants explore diverse aspects of community vitality while networking with professionals from various sectors.

“What you’re doing and learning in this program matters,” Teasdel concluded. “When individuals grow, communities grow with them. And when communities grow, opportunity expands.”