2024 Annual Report
Dear Friends,
As we look back on 2024, I am filled with profound gratitude and pride. Thanks to your unwavering support, Conservation Voters of South Carolina (CVSC) and Conservation Voters of South Carolina Education Fund (CVSCEF) achieved milestones that will protect our state’s air, land, and water for generations to come.
CVSC and CVSC PAC This past year, your commitment powered some of the most ambitious efforts in our organization’s history. Together, we successfully pushed back against risky, far-reaching energy legislation that threatened the progress toward a cleaner energy future for South Carolina — an effort that would not have been possible without your advocacy and generosity. With your support, we also made our most substantial investment yet in the 2024 primary and general elections through CVSC and CVSC PAC — connecting with voters more than 4.7 million times to ensure conservation remained a top priority at the ballot box.
CVSC Education Fund We also celebrated a new chapter in leadership development with the launch of the Palmetto Leadership Academy, an exciting initiative through CVSCEF. In 2024, we proudly graduated both spring and fall cohorts of emerging leaders, individuals now prepared to serve their communities and to champion conservation across the state. Over half of our graduates have already secured placements on public boards and commissions. At the same time, CVSCEF has been forging strong, meaningful partnerships with environmental and conservation organizations across South Carolina. These collaborations are building a stronger, united movement that will defend and enhance the landscapes, air, and water we all treasure.
Recognizing the passion and dedication of conservation champions like you, we launched new giving programs this year to honor and engage those who believe deeply in protecting our state’s natural heritage for the benefit of future generations. Your investments in our mission are making a real and lasting impact.
We also recognize that the challenges ahead are real and growing. Sprawling development, pressure on our water resources, and decisions that overlook long-term impacts in favor of short-term gains continue to put our precious natural resources at risk. But with your continued support, we are poised to meet these challenges and build a future where South Carolina’s landscapes and communities thrive for generations to come.
This annual report is a small way to say thank you for your support and trust in our work and highlight the victories that you made possible. It is a heartfelt reflection of the impact you made in 2024 through your commitment to conservation and your belief in our mission. We are excited to continue this journey with you, protecting South Carolina’s treasured landscapes, air, and water for future generations.
With gratitude and determination,
John Tynan, President
Conservation Voters of South Carolina
CVSC Mission
CVSC fights for our air, land, and water through bipartisan and pragmatic political action, making conservation and environmental issues a top priority among South Carolina’s elected leaders, political candidates, and voters.
Board of Directors
Mark Robertson, Chair
Chynna Phillips, Vice Chair
Willie Morgan, Secretary & Treasurer
Paul Agnew
Greg Gregory
Ben Johnson
Kevin Kay
Arnold Nemirow
Taylor Speer
Ann Warner
2,323
Donors & Action Takers
9,830 Followers on Social Media Platforms
4,148 Online Actions
3,701 Emails to Legislators
4.7 million
Voter Contacts
31 CVSC-Endorsed Candidates Elected to Office
58 CVSC-Driven News Articles & Published Media
CVSC Vision
Our vision for South Carolina is one where natural resources are recognized as an irreplaceable part of our economy, history, and culture — and where economic development and conservation goals align.
Staff
John Tynan
Zach Bjur
John Brooker
Jalen Brooks-Knepfle
Emily Doscher
Kate Durand
Katie Welborn Hagan
Heidi Johnson-Young
Alan Lee
Kendra Mallett-Brunson
Shea Maple
Tyler Mason
Meredith McNeely
Tori Oluseyi
Evan Renshaw
Erin Siebert
Tanya Trinh
Letter from CVSC Board Chair
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As I reflect on all that we accomplished in 2024, I’m filled with a deep sense of appreciation and gratitude for the incredible progress we’ve made together at Conservation Voters of South Carolina (CVSC).
Thanks to your support, we celebrated significant victories for conservation. CVSC championed efforts to defend South Carolina’s water resources, protecting clean drinking water and healthy ecosystems for future generations. We also fought off risky and expensive energy legislation, safeguarding South Carolinians from financial and environmental harm. Our election work reached millions of voters, amplifying the importance of conservation issues at the ballot box. Moreover, our advocacy work secured increased funding for public lands, conserving critical habitats and providing more opportunities for South Carolinians to enjoy the outdoors.
None of these achievements would have been possible without the steadfast commitment of our donors, volunteers, and advocates. Your generous contributions have fueled CVSC’s work, and your voices have amplified our message in the halls of government and in our communities. Together, we have shown that when we unite around a shared vision, we can make a lasting impact.
Thank you for standing with CVSC. Your dedication inspires us every day and makes our successes possible. Together, we are shaping a future for our state where nature thrives and people prosper. Here’s to continuing this important work in the year ahead.
With gratitude,
With gratitude,
Mark Robertson Chair, Board of Directors
Conservation Voters of South Carolina
Legislative Priorities
Energy
In May 2024, CVSC fought hard to block H.5118, a controversial and risky mega-energy bill, investing nearly $100,000 to educate and inform South Carolinians about its far-reaching and dangerous impacts. Our work spans the entire energy sector—from generation facilities to transmission systems to end-use—ensuring that energy in South Carolina remains clean, affordable, reliable, and secure. We remain steadfast in our commitment to opposing any regulatory changes that threaten our environment or burden consumers.
Land
Water
We partnered with the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (DES) to implement the PFOS, PFOA, and Emerging Contaminants Remediation Fund, advancing efforts to remove toxic “forever chemicals” known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from drinking water statewide. Our commitment extends beyond contaminant mitigation—we actively support water infrastructure improvements in underserved communities and work to safeguard South Carolina’s water resources for future generations.
South Carolina boasts approximately 3 million acres of protected land and water about 15% of the state—including working farms and forests, scenic mountains and marshes, and culturally and historically significant sites. CVSC is committed to building on this success with a bold vision to double the amount of protected land. We actively champion policies, funding mechanisms, and strategic partnerships that empower nonprofits and state and local governments to achieve this goal. By supporting both the acquisition and enhancement of protected lands through public and private investments, we are ensuring that conservation continues to enhance South Carolina’s environment, economy, and quality of life.
Endorsements are the cornerstone of CVSC’s political strategy—powerful tools that shape the narrative around conservation and influence the future of environmental leadership in South Carolina. In 2024, CVSC’s political team rose to meet a pivotal election year with determination and vision. With strategic endorsements and targeted support, we helped secure critical victories in open House and Senate districts, ensuring the continued presence of strong conservation champions in the Statehouse. Notably, CVSC ran a targeted campaign to turn out Democratic and Republican voters for Russell Ott in a very competitive Senate race. CVSC also supported Jeffrey Graham in the Democratic primary and runoff elections, where he won by only 24 votes in the runoff election.
CVSC endorsed and worked tirelessly to support a number of successful, close races in the SC GOP primary elections, including Blake Sanders, David Martin, and Paul Wickensimer. Wins in general election State House races for Heather Bauer, Shannon Erickson, Lonnie Hosey, Jason Luck, Heath Sessions, and
Spencer Wetmore secured critical victories that will help safeguard our state’s air, land, and water for today, and tomorrow.
CVSC also supported Robert Reese, a graduate of the Palmetto Leadership Academy program. Reese won an open seat for the House after after our endorsement and continued engagement in the Democratic Primary.
On the ballot in Jasper County, voters approved a sales tax referendum after a targeted and robust campaign led by CVSC and our partners to turn out “yes” votes. This measure is projected to generate approximately $470 million over the next 15 years, providing critical funding for a range of conservation and transportation initiatives.
See more about the 2024 results and CVSC’s endorsements at cvsc.org/elections.
endorsed candidates elected to office
105,000
Doors knocked on
136,000 Phone calls
350,000
Texts sent 1,093,000
Mailers distributed $1.4 million Invested in political programs
CVSC makes ambitious investments because we have ambitious goals. Thank you for standing with us in this fight to protect the air, land, water and communities that make South Carolina so special.
CVSC Donors
Bill & Penny Agnew
Paul & Robyn Agnew
Francis Beach
Richard Beck & Karen Lovelace
Andy Berly
Carla Borders
Robert Bunch
Moultrie & Fran Burns
Charlotte Caldwell & Jeffrey
Schutz
Alys Campaigne & George Abar
Les Case
Ed Chaplin
Elliott Close
Wade Crow
Connie Darden-Young & Jesse
Colin Young
Bailey Davis
Donna Davis
Frank DeBolt
Peter DeLorme
Thank You to Our Generous Donors. We are deeply grateful to the following donors who made cumulative gifts of $250 or more in 2024.
Debra Dickinson
Beverley DuBose
Edwin Epps
Carol Ervin
Robbie Ervin
Laura Gates
Bettina & Don George
P. Edwin Good, Jr.
Courtneylove Gowans
Greg & Sherri Gregory
Julian Hankinson & Monty Mullen
Stephen Hanson
Ellen Harley
David J. Harmon
Kay Haun
Rebecca Haynes & Bobby Davis
John & Elaine Hester
Susan Hilfer
Glenn & Heather Hilliard
Stephen & Susan Hoffius
Frank & Anne Holleman
cvsc.org/give.
Laurel Society Donors
Susannah Knox & Blan Holman
Bo & Lisa Hunter
Laura La Pre-Hinty
Richard Lovegreen
The Maddrey Foundation
Lee Manigault
Harriet McDougal
Cecily McMillan
Willie Morgan
Wendy Zara & Dean Moss
Arnold Nemirow
Ruth & Charles Nicholson
Kevin O’Hara
Linda Parker
Charles & Celeste Patrick
Susan Pearlstine
Jennie & Vincent Pezé
Catherine Powell
Frank & Jane Powell
David Reeves
Ezra Riber
The Grove Donors
Mark & Debbie Robertson
David Ruef
Bob Schofield
Harry Shealy
Vincent & Amy Sheheen
Liz Shelly
Brad Wyche & Diane Smock
Eve Stacey
Jim & Emelia Stephenson
Cynthia Swanson Powell
John Thompson & Julia Forster
John & Mary Virginia Tynan
Ann Warner
Cheryl Watson
Charles Wofford & Nancy Thomas
Dr. Rhonda Wright
John & Jill Zlogar
CVSC Education Fund Mission
CVSC Education Fund is dedicated to maximizing the participation of conservation-minded citizens in decisions regarding South Carolina’s environment, natural resources, and community health made at the state and local levels.
Board of Directors
Cynthia Powell, Chair
Arnold Nemirow, Vice Chair
Ken Harvin
Michael Brown
Susan Hilfer
2024 Fall Cohort of the Palmetto Leadership Academy
Letter from CVSCEF Board Chair
Dear CVSC Community,
As Board Chair for CVSCEF, I thank you for helping us to make incredible strides in 2024. Your support has been instrumental in advancing our mission to educate, engage, and empower South Carolinians to protect the natural treasures that make our state unique.
In 2024, we launched the Palmetto Leadership Academy, a groundbreaking initiative designed to prepare aspiring leaders to serve on public boards and commissions. By equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to champion conservation efforts from within, we are cultivating a new generation of advocates who are committed to safeguarding South Carolina’s environment and communities. Their passion and dedication inspire hope for a brighter, more sustainable future.
We’ve also deepened our collaborations with coalitions and partners across the state. Through these partnerships, we have amplified our collective voice, highlighting the urgent threats facing our treasured places and communities. From advocating for clean energy solutions to protecting our waterways and natural habitats, we’ve worked tirelessly to bring conservation issues to the forefront of public consciousness.
Our efforts to actively engage South Carolinians have reached new heights this year. By hosting community forums, workshops, and educational programs, we’ve empowered individuals to take action in their own neighborhoods. Together, we’ve built a strong network of advocates who are standing up for clean air, clean water, and the preservation of our state’s natural beauty.
As we look ahead to 2025, our work is far from over. The challenges we face are significant, but so are the opportunities to create meaningful change. With your continued support, we will expand our educational initiatives, strengthen our partnerships, and inspire even more South Carolinians to join us in protecting the places we all love.
Thank you for being an essential part of this journey. Your commitment to conservation education and engagement fuels our efforts and makes everything we achieve possible. Together, we are building a legacy of stewardship and sustainability for future generations.
With many thanks,
Cynthia Powell Chair, Board of Directors
Conservation Voters of South Carolina Education Fund
Key Achievements and Impact
Palmetto Leadership Academy
Rosenwald School Preservation
Identified and executed a pilot study of 6 of the remaining 44 Rosenwald School sites, along with our partners at The WeGOJA Foundation
The Palmetto Leadership Academy welcomed a total of 30 participants across its 2024 Spring & Fall Cohorts, coming from across South Carolina to learn about community and conservation leadership opportunities. Since completion of the program, PLA Fellows have stepped into community leadership roles across South Carolina—serving on nonprofit boards, advisory councils, and political party committees. Over 90% of former fellows are actively pursuing vacancies on statewide boards and commissions. Interest in the program continues to grow and the 2025 cohort of PLA Fellows is underway.
over 800 wells tested approximately 20% of owners with dangerously high levels of PFAS have been provided filtration at no cost
Coalition & Partnerships
CVSCEF is committed to building a stronger conservation movement for South Carolina through transformative, collaborative partnerships.
The South Carolina Conservation Coalition grew by 8 new partners in 2024 to a total of 48 conservation-minded member organizations. 2025 priorities included:
• Supporting a clean and just energy transition
• Preserving South Carolina’s natural heritage and rural character
• Protecting Carolina Bays and wetlands
• Implementing signage for wastewater outfalls
The Electric Transportation Network raises public awareness about electric transportation in the state, builds support among electric transportation businesses for policy change, and mobilizes partners to support legislation expanding electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The Electric Transportation Network was started in 2021 and has grown to 277 members.
The Energy Justice Coalition works to uplift communities facing high energy burdens and other systemic inequities within South Carolina’s energy landscape. Rooted in facilitated dialogue, grassroots engagement, and environmental justice principles, the coalition advocates for a clean and equitable energy future for all South Carolinians. CVSCEF helped launch the EJC in 2021 and continues to serve on its steering committee in support of this vital work.
Income
Total: $1,036,830.61
CVSCEF Donors
Carrie Agnew
LaBruce Alexander
Susan Angelo
Tom & Leslie Balliet
Mr. & Mrs. Howell Beach
Henry & Katharine Beard
Kara Berly
Jim Bradley
Marian & Jim Brailsford
Opal Brown
Robert Bunch
Butler Conservation Fund
Charlotte Caldwell & Jeffrey Schutz
Andrea and Edwin Cooper
Steve Dopp & Wendy Meyer Dopp
Brooks & Carol Young Gallagher
Laura Gates
The Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation
Betsy & Samuel George
Edward & Leslie Giobbe
Greg & Sherri Gregory
Laurel Society Donors
Thank You to Our Generous Donors. We are deeply grateful to the following donors who made cumulative gifts of $250 or more in 2024.
Allen & Nikki Grumbine
Duke & Barbara Hagerty
Susan Hamilton & Thomas Gross
Alan Hancock & Adam Silvernail
Susan Hilfer
Bill Holt
Marion Huggins
Arlene Jacquette
Ben Johnson & Betty Caughman
Carson Johnson
John & Susan Jordan
Timothy Joy
Kevin & Julia Kay
Bill Kee and Frank Lee
Kathleen Kempe & Ron Sobczak
Tom and Sandy Kester
The Honorable William D. Keyserling
Cassandra King
William & Joanne Lehman
Peter Maronge
John McClanahan
The Mills Bee Lane Memorial Foundation
Donald Moore
The Morning Sun Foundation
The Patrick Family Foundation
Phicas Foundation
Chynna Phillips
Cynthia Swanson Powell
Jackie & Jean Rion
Mark & Debbie Robertson
Katherine Robinson
Charles Sasser
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Schulze
Susan & Russell Stall
The Sunshine Foundation
Christy Taucher
True Bleu Charitable Fund
Brad Turley
Unity Myrtle Beach
Richard Watkins
Ellen Wood
The Grove Donors
Thank you for following the work of CVSCEF to protect South Carolina’s treasured spaces and natural resources. Please consider a gift of your own in support of environmental future. Visit cvscef.org/contribute.
