FROM THE CHAIR
2024 was a truly transformative year for the Columbia Chamber, a year defined by bold collaboration and unwavering commitment to our community’s growth. With relentless energy and passion, we expanded our reach, elevated our programs, and united the region in a powerful mission.
Our Forward Together campaign set its sights on tackling the Midlands’ most urgent challenges and seizing its greatest opportunities:
• Talent and Workforce Development and Retention
• Amplifying Local and State Advocacy Efforts
• Empowering and Expanding Women, Minority, and Veteran-Owned Businesses
Over the course of the 2023-2024 fiscal year, we didn’t just meet these goals; we exceeded them. We proudly launched Campus Leaders, a program designed to provide college students with a Leadership Columbia-style experience, shaping the next generation of leaders. We broadened the workforce pipeline with LaunchCOLA, a groundbreaking initiative bringing work-based learning opportunities to high school juniors and seniors, while also breathing new life into our Midlands Youth Apprenticeship program.
Our influence now echoes through the halls of the statehouse, where our full-time presence ensures the voice of the business community is not only heard, but drives meaningful action. We’ve also introduced the Impact Bulletin, a weekly insider’s guide that keeps our Partners informed and empowered on policy issues across local, regional, and state levels.
And we didn’t stop there. Our Midlands Minority Business Accelerator program celebrated the graduation of its second cohort and embarked on its third. This hands-on initiative is more than a program; it’s a pathway to economic prosperity for high-potential women and minority-owned firms.
We also forged new paths with the launch of two business alliances in Forest Acres and Northeast Columbia, where local business leaders come together to tackle the unique challenges of their communities. These groups meet regularly at Gather & Grow events, networking and promoting their businesses with a shared vision for success.
Our commitment to supporting the military community took on new heights this year, as well. We hosted the inaugural “Clear Path to Transition” event, connecting retiring senior military leaders with local business opportunities, and provided a welcome orientation for over 1,200 officers.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and our dedicated staff, thank you for standing with the Columbia Chamber as we continue to build a stronger, more vibrant community together as we continue to make Columbia the best place to work, live and play. We appreciate your support that fuels our collective journey forward.
2023-24 CHAIR
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Karen Jenkins
CHAIR KRJ CONSULTING, LLC
Montague Laffitte
CHAIR-ELECT SOUTHSTATE BANK
John Griggs PAST-CHAIR SYNOVUS
Dr. Roslyn
Clark Artis BENEDICT COLLEGE
James Bennett FIRST CITIZENS BANK
BOARD COMMITTEE CHAIRS
DIPLOMAT LINK
CHAIR
Jodi Salter
USC WALKER INSTITUTE
LEADERSHIP COLUMBIA
ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR
Maggie Dittmar
THOMPSON TURNER CONSTRUCTION
BOARD MEMBERS
Dr. Michael Amiridis UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA
Robby Aull SSOE
Caleb Buchanan PRISMA HEALTH
William Cason THE CASON GROUP
Susan Cohen SOUTH CAROLINA RESTAURANT AND LODGING ASSOCIATION
Stephen Cutler UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA
Peyton Bryant FINANCE COMMITTEE CHAIR TRINITY PARTNERS
Ron Harvey
MMBA ADVISORY COMMITTEE CHAIR
GLOBAL CORE STRATEGIES & CONSULTING
David Looper
PUBLIC POLICY COMMITTEE CHAIR FURNITURE SERVICES, INC.
Brian Boyer BOYER CONSTRUCTION
John Cadena DOMINION ENERGY
LEADERSHIP COLUMBIA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR Frank Mundy STEWART
MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CHAIR
Brian Taylor MILLER VALENTINE CONSTRUCTION
Kristin Davis WELLS FARGO
Bill Duda OGLETREE DEAKINS
Bill Ellen EXPERIENCE COLUMBIA SC
Jason Giuletti CENTRAL SC ALLIANCE
Michael Gula COLUMBIA METROPOLITAN AIRPORT
Matt Kennell CITY CENTER PARTNERSHIP
Holt Chetwood FIRST CITIZENS BANK
Mike Farmer TD BANK
SMALL BUSINESS COUNCIL CHAIR
Adam Jones
JONES, MCADEN & ASSOCIATES
TALENT & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CHAIR
Laura McKinney FIRST COMMUNITY BANK
JT McLawhorn COLUMBIA URBAN LEAGUE, INC.
Matthew Littlejohn MUSC
Heather Mitchell BOUDREAUX GROUP, INC.
Kourtney Moody PEPSICO
Lara Lott Moore LEXINGTON MEDICAL CENTER
Kathleen Muthig
HAYNSWORTH SINKLER BOYD, P.A.
Anita Murphy PARTNER RELATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIR GROW FINANCIAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Chris Zimmer
RIVERBANKS FOUNDATION CHAIR TRUIST
Robert Rhodes BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD OF SOUTH CAROLINA
Terrance Ford AT&T
Jean Cecil Frick NP STRATEGY
Dr. Ronald Rhames MIDLANDS TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Larry Salley
GREATER COLUMBIA COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL
Mark Scriven ELLIOTT DAVIS
Brad Shank COLUMBIA FIREFLIES
Rick Shippey
MARK ANTHONY BREWING
Lindsey Spires Griffin BANK OF AMERICA
Sanders Tate MCMILLAN PAZDAN SMITH ARCHITECTURE
Stacy Williams
AGFIRST FARM CREDIT BANK
Nicole Hendricks Woods
ENCOMPASS HEALTH
YOUR COLUMBIACHAMBER
DID YOU KNOW:
The Columbia Chamber has seen 24% average growth over the last three years.
WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST PARTNERS
KEYSTONE
Bitty & Beau’s Coffee
Black Rooster
Bourbon
Canal Coffee Company
Chase Bank - Charleston
Chase Bank - Lady Street
Chase Bank - Two Notch Road
CPI Security
Direct Auto Insurance
Direct Auto Insurance
- Garners Ferry
Direct Auto Insurance
- Two Notch
Elmwood Funeral Home & Cemetery
Floor Pro
Gateway Management Company
Koala Insulation of The Midlands
Mac Gas
Mid Carolina Credit Union
Modern Roofing
Pelican’s Snoballs - Decker Blvd
Pelican’s Snoballs - North Main
Pelican’s Snoballs - Rosewood Dr
Pelican’s SnoballsWest Columbia
Soccer Stars
The Dragon Room
The Flying Biscuit Cafe
Time To Shine Car Wash
Waste Management of South Carolina
IMPACT
7 Brew Coffee – Garners
Ferry Rd
7 Brew Coffee – North Beltline Blvd
929 Kitchen & Bar
Ascend Studios, LLC
Barber Tech Academy
Bierkeller Brewing Company
Bolton & Associates
Carolina Fine Jewelry
Checkers and Rally’s
Chick-fil-A Forest Drive
Children’s Trust of South Carolina
Closet Factory
Club Pilates / Pure Barre
Columbia Housing
Communities in Schools of South Carolina
Crossroads RV dba Big Rig
Friendly RV Resort
D W Davis Consulting, LLC
Divine Home and Learning Center
Dunbar Funeral Home
Electrical by Judy, LLC
Elite Home Care, Day Centers and Transportation
Em Nails and Spa
First Bank
Five Nines
Flock and Rally: Integrated Communications & Marketing
GREEN Charter Midlands
Healing Hands and Hearts
Hispanic Connections, Inc
HOTWORX Columbia Devine St
Humana - Adrian Jones
iHeart Media
Lee Transport Equipment
Legacy Traditional Schools
Lombardo Homes
M.E. Contracting
MajorWorks, LLC
MOA Korean BBQ & Bar
Mobility Plus
Monolith Digital
Oak Street Health
Palmetto Insurance Group, LLC
Park Place Venue
Parker Poe
Party Reflections
PerfectVision
Poogan’s Southern Kitchen
Prohibition Columbia
Pucci Commercial Properties
Rave Installation LLC
Red Pen Edits & Consulting, LLC
Republic Services
Revv Beauty and Infusion Clinic
Riccobene Associates
Family Dentistry
Ruby Sunshine
Rytech Restoration of the Midlands
Signature Catering
Signature Catering and Market
South Carolina Ballet
South Carolina Department of Education
Speech-Language Pathology Associates of South Carolina, LLC
Stee Garman Photography LLC
Strategic Entrepreneur Empowerment (SEE)
T-Mobile Michael Strickland
The Bhang Group, LLC
The Palmetto Opera
Tidal Wave Auto Spa
Toms Creek Farmers Market Xchange
Touma Law
USC Alumni Association – Pastides Center
VHB
Vitality Living Columbia
Wilson’s Refrigerator & Air
YourWay Storage
CORNERSTONE
3D Nail Academy
A. A. Dicks Funeral Home
Abundant Graze, LLC
Aiken Chamber of Commerce
Bennett Distribution Services
C&S Tours, LLC
Capitol Tours
Columbia Music Festival Association
Columbia Opportunity Resource
CommunityWorks
Conservation Voters of South Carolina
Copper Canyon
Core Technology Solutions
CRAFTSC
Emeralds Artistry Entertainment
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott NE
First Tuesday Strategies
Goodwill Industries of Upstate/ Midlands South Carolina
Hampton Inn - Northeast
Historic Columbia
Interactive Display Systems, Inc.
Leadership Simplified
Lucid Logistics
Mid-State Tire Distributors
Parrish & Partners
Postal Plus Experts
Progressive Recovery Resources LLC
ProLogistix, an Employbridge
Company
Providence Home
PTSD Veterans Village
Quackenbush Architects & Planners
Roy’s BBQ & Grille
SC Uplift Community Outreach
SC Quantum
Sistercare
Soteria, LLC
South Carolina Department of Agriculture
South Carolina Education Lottery
South Carolina State Museum
Southern Seafood and Diet
SPERO Financial fka
South Carolina Telco
Federal Credit Union
State Farm - Milton Wright
Sterling One Group, LLC
SVN BlackStream Real Estate
The Balloon Squad
The Donut Guy
The Leadership Perspective
The Million Mile Project
The Post and Courier Columbia
Turning Pages
Williams & McCall Consulting LLC
Zorba’s
ONBOARDING: The Partner Relations team personally onboarded 105 new Partners this fiscal year. These onboarding sessions familiarize new Partners with all that the Chamber offers to jump start their journey. *Not all Partners listed
NEW PARTNER PERK: The Chamber announced a new partnership that promises to bring even more value and opportunities to our community. The Gatlic Group, a leader in credit card processing and merchant services, joined forces with the Columbia Chamber to offer exclusive benefits and services to our Partners.
POWER PARTNERS*
VISIONARY
CHAIRMAN
AMBASSADOR
Aflac Amazon
AT&T
AT&T Mobility
Burr Forman McNair
Colonial Life
Combined Insurance
ECS Southeast, LLP
Founders Federal Credit Union
EXECUTIVE
24/7 Health & Fitness
Center - Columbia
AECOM
AgFirst Farm Credit Bank
Allegiance Staffing
Atlantic at Parkridge
Baker Commercial Properties, LLC
Belk - Columbiana
Bennet at BullStreet
BHE GT&S
BlueChoice HealthPlan
Charter Communications
- Spectrum Reach
Chernoff Newman Cirba Solutions
Colliers
Columbia Fireflies
Columbia VA
Healthcare System
Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration
Delta Hotel by Marriott
Columbia Northeast
Elliott Davis, LLC
Enterprise Leasing
Company - Corporate
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Columbia
Downtown
Field & Stream Music Fest
First Community Bank - Corporate
First Reliance Bank
Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A.
Maynard Nexsen PC
McEntire Produce
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP
NP Strategy
Octapharma Plasma, Inc
Palmetto GBA
South Carolina Small Business Development Centers
Southeastern Freight Lines
Trane Technologies University of South Carolina
Verizon
Westinghouse Electric Company
Fisher Phillips LLP
Flex
Fluor Corporation
FN America, LLC
GMM Insurance
Good Life Cafe
Greystar Management 42 Magnolia + 5000 Forest
Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi
Haven Home Foundation
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia-Fort Jackson, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express
Columbia - Two Notch
Hotel Equities
Icon on Taylor
Lamar Advertising
Lauren Ridge
LTC Hospitality Services
Marriott Columbia
McMillan Pazdan Smith
Architecture
Moxy Columbia Downtown
- Hotel Equities
Mungo Homes
NAI Columbia, LLC
Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC
Player’s Club
Providence Park
Publix Super Markets, Inc. - Corporate
*Includes new and existing Power Partners
FORWARD TOGETHER
2023-2024 has shaped up to be a busy fiscal year for our Forward Together initiatives. We’ve been able to keep our Partners up to date weekly with public policy issues at the statehouse thanks to our advocacy work. Our Midlands Minority Business Accelerator is on track to graduate our third cohort with plans to expand in 2025. Our Campus Leaders program has its first class selected and is ready for the Fall session. Lastly, we welcomed a dynamic leader for our talent and workforce development initiative, Laura McKinney. Our hope is that through her work, the Chamber will become the one-stop-shop for companies looking to invest in our region. None of this would be possible without the support of our Forward Together investors.
Forward Together Investors
Richardson, Plowden and Robinson P.A.
Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, L.L.C.
Rogers Townsend LLC
SAFE Federal Credit Union - Sumter
Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel
Smoked
Sound & Images, Inc.
South Carolina Election Commission
South Carolina Federal
Credit Union
SouthState Bank
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Columbia near Fort Jackson
Sylvamo
Terminix Service, Inc.
The Carolina Haven
The Grand
The Grandview at Lake Murray
The Heights at Lake Murray
The Oaks Venue
The Venue & Soda
City Beer Garden
Turner, Padget, Graham & Laney, P.A.
Vista Commons
Whataburger
WIS News 10
Abacus Planning Group
Aflac
AgFirst Farm Credit Bank
Bank of America
BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Boudreaux Group
Cason Family Group
Colonial Life
Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration
Dominion Energy
Elliott Davis, LLC
ENVIRO AgScience, Inc.
First Citizens Bank
First Community Bank
Furniture Services, Inc.
Garvin Design Group
Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A.
Intellisystems
Karen’s Kitchen and Catering
The Knight Foundation
KRJ Consulting, LLC
LS3P
Mark Anthony Brewing, Inc.
Market on Main
Maynard Nexsen PC
McCrory Construction Company
McEntire Produce
McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture
Mungo Homes
MUSC Health Midlands Division
Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC
Palmetto Health Credit Union
PepsiCo Beverages
Richardson, Plowden and Robinson P.A.
Security Federal Bank
SouthState Bank
Southeastern Freight Lines
Stewart
Synovus
Terminix Service
Trinity Partners
Truist
W.O. Blackstone
CONNECT
MARKETING UPDATE
The Chamber’s marketing and communications department had a big year with an award win, interview in a national publication and the release of a 120-year history video. The communications team focused on CONNECTION this year, whether that be telling the stories of our Partners, or working collaboratively with the greater Midlands community.
EMAIL:
• 29.7% Average Open Rate National Average: 22.5%
• 165 New Subscribers
• Total Subscribers: 6,540
FACEBOOK:
• 444,000+ Impressions
• +458 Followers, 9,233 Total Followers
• Video views increased by 23.4%
INSTAGRAM:
• 57,000+ Impressions
• 400 New Followers
• Profile views up 5.5%
• 110,000+ Impressions
• +642 New Followers
TWITTER/X:
• 113,000+ Impressions
• 12,163 Total Followers
YOUTUBE:
• 4,703 Views
Impressions
The South Carolina Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America awarded the Columbia Chamber with the Silver Wing Award of Merit for the 2022-2023 Annual Report. This recognition is part of the annual Mercury Awards, a judged competition and gala that celebrates excellence in the creation and execution of public relations campaigns and tactics.
The Chamber marketing team was also interviewed regarding the 120th anniversary video that was debuted at the 120th Annual Diamond Gala. The video was a large undertaking many years in the making and was made possible through the archives of the South Caroliniana Library, the online news database at Richland Library and from historical contributions of local Partners, like the SC State Fair. The interview was published in the national publication, The Membership Management Report.
DIPLOMATS
The Diplomat program has maintained over 20 active Diplomats in 2023-2024. This year, the Diplomat Committee introduced a Partner Pal program, where Diplomats are assigned to a new Partner and asked to join them at their first Chamber event to help them form new connections.
The Diplomats met 20 times over the course of the fiscal year at Partner locations such as Edventure Children’s Museum, Dragon Room, Market on Main, and more.
SEPT. 2023
OCT. 2023
NOV. 2023
FEB. 2024
MARCH 2024
APRIL 2024
MAY 2024
JUNE 2024
AUG. 2024
HOST: Defender Firearms & Training
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: Victory Family Medicine
HOST: Unumb Center
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: TSA Choice
HOST: Cambria Hotel
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: KRJ Consulting, Ronald McDonald House
HOST: Homewood Suites
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: R. Bettis Construction, Any Lab Test Now
HOST: Still Hopes Episcopal
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: Collins Family & Elder Law Group
HOST: Pollock Company
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: T.D. Legal Nurse, Brett Groller Coaching
HOST: East Bay Deli
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: Hispanic Connections, The Seals
HOST: Hyatt Place Downtown
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: Emerald’s Artistry
HOST: Prohibition Columbia
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER: Mid Carolina Credit Union
ENGAGE
EVENTS
This year, every Chamber event sold out! This meant a lot of time for our Partners, new and old, to come together in fun and ENGAGING ways.
120TH DIAMOND GALA
The Chamber’s Annual Gala is the region’s premier business event, uniting Columbia’s influential leaders, small business owners, and community champions as they engage in celebration together. The 120th Diamond Gala, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, took place on October 5th at Segra Park, with the main event set directly on the baseball diamond.
The 120th Diamond Gala celebrated the Chamber’s rich history with a special video highlighting our milestones. With over 600 attendees, the event featured a memorable address, recognized outstanding community contributors, and ended with fireworks and live music by The Terence Young Project. Additionally, in 2023, the Public Servant of the Year Award was renamed to the Joe Taylor Public Servant Award, honoring Taylor’s legacy of service, integrity, and professionalism in the Midlands region.
• Ambassador of the Year: Kim Wilkerson
• Diplomat of the Year: Ann Thomason
• Joe Taylor Public Servant: Joe Taylor, posthumously
• Military Advocate of the Year: Dan Beatty
• Young Professional of the Year: Stacy Williams
• Partner of the Year: Coca-Cola Consolidated
SPORTING CLAY TOURNAMENT
Each fall, the Columbia Chamber and Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber come together to host a friendly Sporting Clay Tournament, offering Partners a chance to engage and connect in a relaxed, fun setting. The day, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, includes a sporting clay competition, prizes for top teams and individuals, and a 5-stand competition. In 2023, Chief Gregg Shockley with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department took home the Sheriff ShootOff prize, with a donation made to the Lexington County Sheriff’s Foundation in his honor. Attendees enjoyed lunch and a post-tournament reception, making this event a fantastic opportunity to network, compete, and support our local community.
38TH ANNUAL CHAMBER CLASSIC
SNEAK PEEK: Due to the growing popularity of the event, we’re excited to announce that the Fall 2024 Tournament will feature a morning and afternoon flight to accommodate even more participants!
The Columbia Chamber’s Annual Chamber Classic is a highly anticipated event for Chamber Partners and a highlight of the spring season. This Captain’s Choice tournament provides an exceptional opportunity for business leaders to connect, network, and engage while enjoying premier golf in the Midlands. With 50 teams and over 400 participants, this year’s 38th annual event, presented by Splash Omnimedia, set a record as the largest tournament in Chamber history. Players mingled with Columbia’s business elite and experienced the hospitality of top sponsors, making it a standout occasion that underscored our commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering meaningful connections within our community.
POWER IN HEELS
Power in Heels is a dynamic women’s event that offers a unique platform for women in business to gain valuable knowledge, engage in professional networking, and enjoy a fun and interactive atmosphere. The 2024 conference, presented by Collins Family & Elder Law Group, featured an inspiring Women in Leadership panel, where accomplished local women shared their insights on leadership and success. The prestigious Cathy Novinger Trailblazer Award was presented to Henri Baskins, honoring her longstanding career and contributions to Columbia and the Columbia Chamber. With over 300 participants, the conference provided numerous opportunities to engage and connect, including a lively reception with exciting raffles, a flashiest high heel competition, and more. The event’s success was further highlighted by its new early summer timing, ensuring continued growth and impact in the business community.
AWARDS
In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the Columbia Chamber presented awards at various events throughout the year to honor exceptional Partners and recognize their significant contributions to the Columbia business community. This approach maximized visibility and engagement while integrating recognition into significant moments throughout the year.
PARTNER ENGAGEMENTS
Hosted monthly, Chamber Partner Engagements are the perfect way for all Partners to gather and engage in a variety of locations. The Hospitality Industry Award was presented to DoubleTree by Hilton at January’s Partner Engagement, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the Columbia hospitality sector.
This year, our Partners gathered at:
1. Bourbon – sponsored by SCRLA
2. TD Bank – sponsored by TD Bank
3. GrowCo – sponsored by Five Points Association
4. The Hive Community Circle – sponsored by the Hive
5. Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi – sponsored by SCRLA
6. Carolina Haven – sponsored by Sound & Images
7. Craft Axe Throwing – sponsored by Craft Axe
8. Market on Main – sponsored by Main Street District
9. Bierkeller Brewing – Tri-Chamber with Cayce-West Columbia and Lexington Chambers in honor of Small Business Month
10. Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center –celebrating 20 years of the Convention Center
BREAKFAST BRIEFINGS
Breakfast Briefings, formerly Issues Forum, are monthly gatherings that unite Columbia’s business community for insightful and engaging discussions on local, regional, and federal issues. These events feature expert speakers who provide valuable perspectives on current topics, while attendees network over a hot breakfast. Breakfast Briefings also spotlight Chamber Partners, share Chamber updates, and offer legislative insights, making them a key opportunity to stay informed and engaged in shaping our business landscape.
This year’s topics included:
• September – “Safety is a Shared Responsibility”
• October – “If you believe in Columbia, you belong in the Chamber of Commerce”
• November – “Judicial Reform’s Impact on Business”
• December – “Insights from the SC State House”
• January – “South Carolina Ports’ Economic Impact”
• February – “Education and Business: Mentoring the Future Workforce”
• March – “Enriching the State through Economic Development”
• April – “Scout Motors: Cutting Edge Technology Changing the Landscape”
• May – “Opportunities Flow from River Development”
• June – “Paving the Way for South Carolina’s Future”
• August – “Building Boeing South Carolina’s Future”
RIBBON CUTTINGS
The Chamber was pleased to host 60 ribbon cuttings this fiscal year, more than doubling the previous year. Ribbon cuttings are a great way to welcome new Partners, engage with the community, and celebrate milestones of established Partners.
IMPACT
PUBLIC POLICY
Working together with all constituencies to include local, state and federally elected officials, the Columbia Chamber is focused on creating and maintaining a vision of sustainable growth that benefits and IMPACTS the entire region.
Listening to our Partners and providing avenues for an exchange of ideas builds the community foundation that instills a healthy work environment, fosters quality of life, and creates an atmosphere to retain talent and build the workforce.
2024 State House Legislative Session Recap:
As part of our Forward Together initiative, the Chamber welcomed Logan Howard as Director of Government Affairs. Logan advocated on behalf of the business community at the State House during the 2024 legislative session.
Columbia Chamber legislative priorities that passed during the 2024 session:
■ H. 3992,
Delinquent Unemployment Compensation Tax Rates
H. 3992 alleviates the burden placed on business owners who have fallen behind on unemployment insurance payments. Under this legislation, if an employer is acting in good faith and has entered into a department approved payment plan, and remains current on the plan, they would be reverted to their original rate class. This legislation is key in helping keep small businesses afloat, at a time when inflation, rising insurance costs, and wage pressures are already impacting their bottom line. The bill was ratified on May 8th and signed by Governor McMaster on May 13th.
■ H. 4832,
Paid Family Leave Insurance
The House passed H. 4832, and advanced it to the Senate where the bill was amended. The legislation enacts the Paid Family Leave Insurance Act, outlining requirements for family leave insurance policies. The bill was ratified on May 15th and was signed by Governor McMaster on May 21st.
■ S. 1021, Abandoned Buildings
Tax Credit
Local Impact
During the year, the Chamber was actively engaged in sponsoring and tracking activities with local and county governments to include topics such as candidate forums, community grants, the Transportation Penny, the land development code, military support, homelessness and numerous other issues which have the ability to impact our Partners and their businesses. The Chamber works with the City of Columbia, Richland County, Lexington County, Forest Acres, and Blythewood.
Legislative Reception
S. 1021 amends the current sunset date (Dec 31, 2025) to 2035 for abandoned buildings tax credit. Additionally, the legislation increases the maximum credit amount from $500,000 to $700,000. The bill was ratified on May 15th and was signed by Governor McMaster on May 20th.
■ S.
557, Apprentice Tax Credit
S. 557 increases the apprentice income tax credit from $1,000 to a maximum of $4,000 per adult apprentice or $6,000 per youth apprentice. The legislation allows employers to claim an additional $1,000 tax credit for up to three years if they hire an individual full-time upon completion of their apprenticeship. The bill was ratified on May 15th and was signed by Governor McMaster on May 21st.
The Metro Chamber Coalition held its annual legislative reception at the Columbia Museum of Art. The goal behind the reception is to bring together the legislature and business community. This is a chance for our Partners to connect with a legislator on certain bills that impact their business or to offer support. Lieutenant Governor Pam Evette provided the keynote. All five Metro Chambers (Columbia, Greenville, Charleston, Charlotte and Myrtle Beach) were represented.
Impact Bulletin
Each Friday, the Impact Bulletin is shared via email to update our Partners on pertinent legislation that was debated among the General Assembly the week prior. In addition to statewide updates, the bulletin includes local citywide and county issues, as well as Columbia Chamber news. Throughout the year, the Chamber monitored and tracked legislation pertaining to education, joint and several liability, energy generation, economic and workforce development, etc.
MILITARY
Columbia proudly calls itself a Great American Defense Community thanks to the support of our Partners. Home to the Army’s largest initial training base at Fort Jackson, the SC National Guard, the 169th “Swampfox” Fighter Wing at McEntire, and the US Army Readiness Division, we are proud of the impact our military Partners make on the community, the nation and globally. The military has an economic impact of $6.6 billion in the Midlands. The Chamber works to promote strong ties with the local school districts, nonprofit organizations, businesses, elected officials and military spouse groups.
This year, the Chamber joined forces with local military installations through numerous activities. The Chamber attended monthly welcome orientations and was able to speak to 1,200 officers. Chamber Partners were able to observe Night Infiltration Training for basic trainees as they learned to maneuver through an obstacle course during night exercises. Leadership Columbia tested their skills during Military Affairs Day by conquering Victory Tower –a test of strength, focus and agility that soldiers undergo.
Overall, our work helps create a supportive environment where military families can thrive, which in turn strengthens the overall effectiveness and readiness of our military forces.
Additional key activities sponsored and supported by the Columbia Chamber:
• Quarterly Military Outreach Group meetings with five commanders, congressional representatives, report from our Washington consultant, SC DVA, USO, and over 150 Chamber Partners
• Quarterly meetings with base commanders to coordinate opportunities for Chamber support
• Participation in military career fairs with Fort Jackson and the South Carolina National Guard
• Hosted “Clear Path to Transition” to connect retiring/departing officers with local business leaders for potential career opportunities in support of retaining talent
• Connected Partners with military contacts to share service contract opportunities
• Coordinated Fort Jackson soldier participation at activities such as sporting events, parades, and concerts
• Worked with non-profits to support military members like USO, Wreaths Across America, Camp Cole and many others
TRANSFORM
TALENT AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
As part of the Forward Together initiative, the Chamber is taking an active and impactful approach to Talent & Workforce Development. With the recent hire of Laura McKinney as Senior Vice President for Talent & Workforce Development, the Chamber has developed three programs that will be launched in late 2024/2025 and will begin addressing employer challenges with recruitment and retention, TRANSFORMING the workforce pipeline. These programs are Campus Leaders, LaunchCOLA, and Midlands Youth Apprenticeship. The Chamber utilizes the leadership and insights from the Talent & Workforce Development Committee to guide the formation and structure of the programs, as well as to find other ways to help address employer challenges.
Campus Leaders is a skills-building program that aims to develop emerging college student leaders while providing an educational experience with a strong emphasis on industry awareness, soft skill development and local community involvement. Upon completion of the program, Campus Leaders participants will have gained knowledge about career opportunities in the Midlands area, networking and leadership skills and formed a deeper connection to the Columbia area.
LaunchCOLA is an initiative that will connect high school juniors and seniors with paid work experience. The Chamber will work with school districts to facilitate a connection between students seeking work-based learning experiences and the businesses looking to develop and grow young talent.
Midlands Youth Apprenticeship (MYA) works with Midlands Technical College and the local business community to identify critical areas for employment that would benefit from the apprenticeship model and coordinate with local school districts to connect high school students with those opportunities.
GATHER & GROW
This year, the Chamber launched new location-based alliances and networking opportunities called Gather & Grow. We’ve partnered with representatives and business leaders in Forest Acres and Northeast Columbia to foster an environment that will strengthen relationships, promote growth, and TRANSFORM the communities around us.
Each business alliance works together to strategically evaluate the needs and interests of business owners in the respective areas.
The Chamber hosted five successful quarterly Gather & Grow events to date, and programming will continue to expand in the new year with new locations and speakers, as we look to bring business and community Partners together to learn how to best serve the Midlands.
LEADERSHIP COLUMBIA
In June 2024, Leadership Columbia (LC) completed its 51st year of programming, graduating 62 leaders in the Midlands. LC aims to TRANSFORM leaders through community involvement, professional development, and networking.
Leadership Columbia is the region’s signature leadership program offered through the Columbia Chamber. The 10-month program includes a required two-day retreat, nine monthly day-long sessions, a collaborative class project, and a variety of enrichment activities all designed to educate participants on critical issues facing the community while providing opportunities for deeper involvement in and around the greater Columbia region.
The class of 2024 completed 90 hours of class time, 1,289 project hours, and raised over $31,000 to benefit Serve & Connect’s new headquarters. A few noteworthy contributions from the class include a new pergola, basketball court, landscaping, outdoor pavilion, and a memorial garden to honor fallen police officers and community members. These improvements will allow Serve & Connect to continue their mission of fostering positive change through police and community relationships.
As of 2024, Leadership Columbia has completed 42 projects with organizations such as Carolina Boys Home, Epworth Children’s Home, Columbia Free Medical Clinic, Midlands Reading Consortium, Autism Academy, and Palmetto Place and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on Columbia.
The Leadership Columbia Alumni Association (LCAA) hosted four District X District events this year. These events strive to give the community insight on the growth taking place in Columbia. The districts LCAA were able to highlight include Main Street, North Main, The BullStreet District, and Devine Street.
There are now over 2,200 Leadership Columbia graduates to date.
MIDLANDS MINORITY BUSINESS ACCELERATOR (MMBA)
This year was a TRANSFORMATIVE year for the MMBA. Our mission to advance economic inclusion by supporting minority-owned, women-owned, and veteranowned businesses continues to drive our economy, and the progress we made this year is a testament to the dedication of all our participants, alumni, sponsors, and community partners.
Throughout the year, we have seen significant milestones, such as growing our cohort to 10 participants, participating in a joint session with the Greenville and Charleston Chambers, and growing our alumni network. These accomplishments not only highlight the strength of this program, but also reinforce the importance of building a vibrant and diverse local economy.
Joint Session:
The standout moment of the year was our collaborative annual Joint Session. This provides participants and alumni across the state a chance to connect, share and learn from one another. The collaboration highlighted the economic impact across the state of South Carolina. The session included a keynote from Representative Wendell Jones, a workshop led by program sponsor Bank of America, and peerto-peer networking.
Alumni Events:
This year, we hosted two alumni events, “Cultivating Connections: Empowering Success with the MMBA”, designed to support the continued growth and
development of our graduates. The purpose is to provide a platform for alumni to reconnect, share their successes, growth, and experiences, while also learning from leaders and accessing new resources.
Alumni Network:
Our MMBA alumni network continues to grow, with 16 who have completed the program. These graduates are making significant contributions and TRANSFORMING their businesses. 100% of alumni reported they have increased or maintained their annual revenue. Alumni have retained and created 74 jobs, expanded into second locations, and have continued to invest in their communities by hiring local talent.
Goals for Next Year:
As we look ahead, our goals are clear. We aim to continue the expansion of the program, reaching more minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses across the Midlands, and deepening our economic impact. We are committed to supporting our alumni in achieving their goals. We will continue to build on our statewide efforts with the Greenville and Charleston Chambers.
SMALL BUSINESS
Through the Chamber’s small business initiatives, we highlight our commitment to fostering South Carolina’s growth and development within the small business community. Through Small Business Breakouts and the Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union Small Business Champion Program, we have continued to provide resources and opportunities for education, networking, and motivation.
The Chamber welcomed five new small businesses to the 2024 Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union Small Business Champion Program. Building on the success and excitement of last year’s initiative, the program continues to elevate and TRANSFORM local small businesses in the Midlands by offering resources and support. This year, winners received personalized mentorship from a Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union expert, a Chamber
Diplomat pairing, and a full year of Partnership dues with the Chamber. These resources are offered to ensure the success of these businesses and maximize their year as a Chamber Partner.
2024 Participants:
• Williams and McCall Consulting, LLC
• The Balloon Squad
• Stee Garman Photography, LLC
• The Donut Guy
• Postal Plus Experts
CHAMBER COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Leadership Columbia Advisory Board
Maggie Dittmar, Thompson Turner Construction
Dana Austin, SC Forestry Commission
Jennifer Blackhurst, Synovus
Eleanor Dreher Boyd, Midlands Fatherhood Coalition
Daniel Branham, W.O. Blackstone
Murray Coleman, United Way of the Midlands
Nic Collins, Nic Collins Enterprises
Tammie C. Epps, Prisma Health
Jennifer Fallaw, South Carolina Federal Credit Union
Kenneth Givens II, Miller Valentine Construction
Ashley Graham, Dominion Energy
Kayla Gupton, Colonial Life
Lisa Henry, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Todd Hudak, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Kristin Hudson, Prisma Health Midlands Foundation
Leah G. Johnson, SC Academy of Physician Assistants
Chandler Jordan, SC Economics
David Looper, Furniture Services, Inc.
Bryanta “Bre” Maxwell, Indigo Consulting, LLC
Courtney Melendez, Cason Development Group
Shayla Merritt, Cyberwoven
Megan Newbold, Garvin Design Group
David Palkovitz, Apollon Wealth Management
Punam Patel, Scout Motors
Kassy Alia Ray, Serve & Connect
Charles Stuart, Hood Construction
Brian Taylor, Miller Valentine Construction
Sara Vernon, McGuireWoods Consulting
Chuck Whipple, ECS Southeast
Leadership
Columbia Alumni Advisory Board
Frank Mundy, Stewart
DeAnna Bookert-Heard, The Bookert Agency, City of Columbia Police Department
President Chisolm, Palmetto GBA
Maureen Derrick, University of South Carolina
Elizabeth Hutton, Dominion Energy
Ashley Jenkins Woods, City of Columbia
Ebony Kelly, City of Columbia
Emilie Lewis, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
David Looper, Furniture Services Inc.
Amanda Loveday, NP Strategy
Kim McMahon, University of South Carolina
Henry Simons, City of Columbia
Elizabeth Wynn, Chernoff Newman
Midlands Minority Business Accelerator Advisory Board
Ron Harvey, Global Core Strategies & Consulting
John Cadena, Dominion Energy
Lynn Hutto, LIH Consulting, LLC
Karen Jenkins, KRJ Consulting
Lasenta Lewis-Ellis, LLE Construction Group, LLC
Joseph “Jemie” Meachum, Bank of America
Dominik Mjartan, Optus Bank
Michael Murphy, Synovus
Bob Quinn, SCRA
Diana Stevenson, Grace Outdoor Advertising
Military Affairs Group & Cohort Members
Brian Taylor, Miller Valentine Construction
Lara Lott Moore, Lexington Medical Center
Karen Jenkins, KRJ Consulting
David Looper, Furniture Services, Inc.
Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration
BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Sound & Images, Inc.
First Command
Doubletree by Hilton South Carolina State Fair
South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Richland School District Two
USO
AUSA
University of South Carolina Congressional District Leaders
CASE
Public Policy Committee
David Looper, Furniture Services, Inc.
David Adams, MUSC
Benton Williamson, Haynesworth
Sinkler Boyd, P.A.
John Cadena, Dominion Energy
Susan Cohen, SCRLA
Brooks Owings, Wilson Kibler
Macon Lovelace, Trinity Partners
Kevin Ross, AFLAC
Jean Cecil Frick, NP Strategy
Ted Creech, SCDOT
Austin Monts, Mungo Homes
Mark Hoosier, FN Manufacturing
Nicole Morgan, Columbia Museum of Art
Katie Titus, Bon Secours Mercy Health
Amanda Taylor, AT&T
Mark James, Cypress Commercial
Small Business Council
Adam Jones, Jones, McAden and Associates
David Belton, A. Dowl Knight & Company, PC
Ayesha Driggers, City of Columbia – Business Opportunities
Michael Evans, Integrated Media Publishing
Ron Harvey, Global Strategies and Consulting, LLC
James Shadd, Shadd Law Firm, LLC
Ty Westbrook, Global Strategies and Consulting, LLC
Ann Thomason, Ann Thomason Real Estate
Michelle Rosenthal, Richland County
Pamela Green, Richland County
Steve Padgett, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Arieal Humphries, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union
Kalenna Ginyard, City of Columbia – Business Opportunities
La’Sasha Breland, Richland County Government Office of Small Business Opportunity
Partner Relations Committee
Anita Murphy, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union
Nick Annan, Elliott Penn, LLP
Keith Bogart, Zero Gravity
Brad Davis, McCrory Construction Company, Inc.
Steve Doyle, CPR Cell Phone Repair
Nicole Hendricks Woods, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia
Margaret Clarkson, LS3P
Leanna Lee, Graduate Columbia
Diplomats
Jodi Salter, University of South Carolina – The Walker Institute
Jessica Burton, Friendly Atmosphere Mentoring
Steve Doyle, CPR Cell Phone Repair
Audra Hawisher, Post & Courier
Emily James, Find Great People
Kayla Jordan, Comfort Keepers
Nick Joyner, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
Terry Judy, Gatlic Group
Dougal Kear, Merrill Gardens at Columbia
Donna Ladd, SREE Hospitality
Maggie Mondragon, iHeart Radio
Anita Murphy, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union
Fred Mutz, EdVenture
Shriya Patel, Hyatt Place, Downtown Columbia
Nick Picariello, Carolina Conditions
Mitchell Pollock, First Carolina Bank
Ann Thomason, ERA Wilder Realty
Mike Weaver, The Weaver Agency
Zachary Wilkerson, Servpro
Amy Yoho, Cardinal Newman School
Talent & Workforce Committee
Laura McKinney, First Community Bank
Caitlin Bruner, Colonial Life
Cheryl Garza, Dominion Energy
Nicole Hendricks Woods, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia
Stephanie Pfeiffer, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
Jodi Salter, University of South Carolina – The Walker Institute
Forest Acres Business Alliance
Emilie Lewis, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
Chris Tenderlin, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
Katy Renfroe, Cool Care Heating, Air, Plumbing & Refrigeration
Bailey Lewis, Words First
Marice Wilson, Lexington Medical Center
Lynnsey Baker, City of Forest Acres
Stephen Oliver, City of Forest Acres
Thomas Andrews, City of Forest Acres
Dee Robinson, Richland Library
Elizabeth Barrett, Richland Library
Northeast Business Alliance
Kayla Jordan, Comfort Keepers
Ann Thomason, ERA Wilder
Angela Koska, Sandhills Bookkeeping
Tara Craps, East Bay Deli
Kevin Wimberly, SC Uplift Community Outreach
Dee Robinson, Richland Library
Heather Leigh, Greenhaven Memorial Gardens
Arieal Humphries, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union
*Bold indicates Chair
*Not all committee members listed
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
November 20, 2024 SPORTING CLAY
TOURNAMENT
April 3, 2025
39th ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC
June 2025 POWER IN HEELS
October 2, 2025 122nd ANNUAL GALA
Learn more about the Columbia Chamber and get connected by scanning this code
COLUMBIACHAMBER STAFF
Carl Blackstone PRESIDENT & CEO cblackstone@columbiachamber.com
Laura McKinney SENIOR VP OF TALENT & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT lmckinney@columbiachamber.com
Meg Senn VP OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING msenn@columbiachamber.com
Leah Kelly
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT lkelly@columbiachamber.com
Hilary Bell DIRECTOR OF EVENTS hbell@columbiachamber.com
Rachel Pedde DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS rpedde@columbiachamber.com
Amy Alimohamed PARTNER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER aalimohamed@columbiachamber.com
Jenna Scurry
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT jscurry@columbiachamber.com
Ashleigh Pair Conner, CMP VP OF DEVELOPMENT aconner@columbiachamber.com
Susan Vaughan McPherson VP OF PUBLIC POLICY & MILITARY AFFAIRS smcpherson@columbiachamber.com
Anna Peterson DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS apeterson@columbiachamber.com
Naomi Walton DIRECTOR OF SMALL & MINORITY BUSINESS nwalton@columbiachamber.com
Mary Beth Sanderson DIRECTOR OF LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT msanderson@columbiachamber.com
Logan Howard DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS lhoward@columbiachamber.com
Rebecca Spence PARTNER DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR rspence@columbiachamber.com