APRIL 7-9, 2025
Hyatt Regency Downtown Greenville, SC
This unique conference unites the dynamic sectors of health and wellness, conservation, and community and economic sustainability. This gathering, unlike any other in the nation, assembles leaders, innovators, and advocates from diverse fields under one roof to delve into pressing issues, share insights, and forge collaborative pathways toward a healthier, more sustainable future. Together, we have the power to inspire change, catalyze action, and chart a course towards a more resilient South Carolina, Southeast Region, and USA for generations to come.
The SC Resilience Conference is one of many initiatives of SC7, a partnership project between two South Carolina non-profit organizations, the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor and Global Eco Adventures. This year we are honored to have the South Carolina Office of Resilience as our Community and Economic Resilience Sponsor and BlueCross BlueShield, Medical University of South Carolina, SC Healthy Business Challenge as our Health and Wellness Sponsors. Together this team has developed an amazing lineup of speakers and crafted networking opportunities to make this year’s conference an event you will not want to miss.
COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC RESILIENCE SPONSOR
HEALTH & WELLNESS SPONSORS
Dear Esteemed Attendees,
Welcome to our 2nd annual conference uniting the dynamic sectors of health and wellness, conservation, and corporate and community sustainability. It is with immense pleasure and anticipation that we extend our warmest greetings to each of you as we embark on this unprecedented journey in South Carolina and the Southeast.
This gathering marks a historic moment as we assemble leaders, innovators, and advocates from diverse fields under one roof to delve into pressing issues, share insights, and forge collaborative pathways toward a healthier, more sustainable future. Never before have these pivotal spheres intersected in such a profound manner, promising a wealth of meaningful discussions and invaluable networking opportunities. Together, we have the power to inspire change, catalyze action, and chart a course towards a more resilient South Carolina for generations to come.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees for their unwavering support and dedication to this groundbreaking endeavor. Your presence here today is a testament to your commitment to driving positive change and shaping a brighter tomorrow.
May this conference be a catalyst for transformative dialogue, meaningful connections, and impactful collaborations that transcend boundaries and propel us towards our shared vision of a thriving and sustainable future.
Once again, welcome, and thank you for joining us.
SCCalm
FOREST THERAPY WITH YUKA GREER
Start your Monday morning by slowing down and reconnecting with nature—right here in the heart of Downtown Greenville. Led by a certified guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), this full-version forest bathing walk will begin at Cancer Survivors Park and meander gently toward Falls Park. Through a series of mindful invitations, you’ll engage your senses and deepen your connection with the natural world. By the end of the walk, your mind will feel refreshed and open—ready to fully receive and enjoy all that the conference has to offer.
SOUTH CAROLINA HEALTHY BUSINESS CHALLENGE SPRING SEMINAR SERIES
City Club Greenville - One Liberty Square 55 Beattie Pl Fl 17 Floor 17, Greenville, SC 29601
The South Carolina Healthy Business Challenge (SCHBC) is excited to bring its Spring Seminar Series to Greenville as part of the SC Resiliency Conference and in partnership with Blue Zones™. This exclusive event will introduce Blue Zones’ proven strategies for longevity and well-being, offering upstate businesses practical tools to cultivate healthier, more engaged, and resilient workforces.
ADVANCED REGISTRATION REQUIRED
For more information, email susan@schealthybiz or visit schealthybiz.com/events
3 PM - 5:30 PM Welcome from Conference Leadership Team
Welcome from Mayor Knox White, City of Greenville
KEYNOTE ADDRESS: The Power of Place: Building Resilient Communities for Health and Longevity
Nick Buettner, Vice President of Blue Zones, LLC
5:30 PM - 7 PM WELCOME NETWORKING RECEPTION
TUESDAY, APRIL 8th
8 AM - 9 AM BREAKFAST
8 AM - 8:45 AM
COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Ecological Theology: Protecting the Lord’s garden in the Bible Belt Dr. Tom Mullikin
Grab your breakfast and join this session that will explore the emergence of religion and the environment and the potential role religion can play in addressing anthropogenic climate change. An examination of the relationships between human cultures, religions, and environments will be considered and discussed.
9 AM - 9:45 AM
RESILIENCE PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
Bradley Craig, Resilience Planning Manager, SCOR
Andrew Predmore, Furman University
In Summer 2024, the SC Office of Resilience released the one-year update of the Strategic Statewide Resilience and Risk Reduction Plan, which provides additional data and an update on the plan’s implementation. SCOR will be joined by partners to discuss achievements, ongoing efforts, and next steps. The session will specifically focus on the information and resources available through SCOR for planning and coordinating resilience at the local and watershed level.
NATURAL SOLUTIONS: HARNESSING BIOPHILIA AND BIODIVERSITY FOR HEALTHIER WORKPLACES
Dr. Susan Johnson, Ph.D, Director of Health Promotion, MUSC
Ashley McLeod, President, Heritage Landcare
Explore how biophilia – the human connection to nature – and biodiversity – the variety of life in the natural world – can transform workplace environments and employee wellbeing. This session will delve into the ways biodiverse natural environments not only support mental and physical health but also enhance creativity and productivity. South Carolina-based examples will illustrate how investing in biodiversity and nature-focused strategies fosters resilience in workforce settings.
PRESERVING PARADISE: UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF CONSERVATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA
Raleigh West, Director of SC Conservation Bank
Join this informative discussion of conservation efforts in South Carolina as Raleigh uncovers the tapestry of conservation efforts in South Carolina. He will discuss the trends shaping land use across the Palmetto State and unveil the innovative measures being implemented to safeguard its cherished historic and natural landscapes. Delve into the interplay between public preserves and privately protected farms and forests, discovering the delicate balance essential for the preservation of South Carolina’s natural splendor.
GREEN STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE
Hunter Freeman, Green Stormwater Infrastructure Senior Advisor, McAdams Co.
McAdams’ projects connect people with nature by fostering environmental education, initiatives, and support for conservation and stewardship. Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) protects the environment, builds resilience, and integrates nature into built environments. GSI design principles bridge the gap between people and nature, ensuring sustainable, biophilic spaces that promote resilience and environmental protection. This session will showcase active transportation projects—such as greenways, roadways, and placemaking—that use GSI to encourage exploration of both natural and built environments, moving people physically or evoking nature through design.
AM - 10:50 AM
RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE FOLLOWING HURRICANE HELENE
Ran Reinhard, SCOR Disaster Recovery Division
Robbie Sofaly, American Red Cross
In late September, Hurricane Helene left a large path of damage across many parts of the state, particularly in the Upstate. This session will provide an overview of the storm’s impacts, the incredible coordination that has occurred to move resources to those who need it most, the role of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOADs), and provide an overview of SCOR’s state and federally funded long-term recovery programs.
prioritizing health & environmental stewardship as a business imperative: The South Carolina Healthy Business Challenge Blueprint Kaitlin DaPore and Caitlin Townsend
Join us for an insightful session delving into the multi-faceted role of the South Carolina Healthy Business Challenge as an invaluable resource through the unique lens of the intersectionality of the health of the natural environment with the health of human environments. This session will highlight the program’s unique ability to intertwine employee wellbeing, population health, environmental resiliency, conservation practices, and health promotion, creating a holistic approach to workforce well-being. Discover how businesses in South Carolina can leverage this valuable resource to not only enhance employee health but also contribute to sustainable practices and environmental conservation. Gain insights into successful case studies, innovative strategies, and the transformative impact of the Healthy Business Challenge in creating a healthier, more sustainable, and thriving workforce for the future.
AN URBAN OASIS & RUSTIC RETREAT
Will Haynie, Mayor of Mt. Pleasant and Ken Roper, Pickens County Administrator
Join us as we uncover the remarkable stories of two distinct communities— the urban Town of Mt. Pleasant and the rural expanse of Pickens County— united by a shared commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation. Explore how these diverse landscapes have leveraged their natural assets to fuel economic growth while nurturing the health and wellness of their communities. This session promises a compelling exploration of how communities, regardless of size or setting, can harness the power of nature to forge a brighter future for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the trailblazers shaping the next chapter of prosperity and well-being in urban and rural America.
THE ART OF SEEKIN’: BUILDING GULLAH GEECHEE CULTURAL RESILIENCE THROUGH INTENTIONAL COLLABORATION
Erica Xavier-Beauvoir, Resiliency Manager, Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor NHA
Coastal resilience is unique in Gullah Geechee culture through tradition, ancestral practice, and communal collaborative frameworks. There are over one million Gullah Geechee community members within the corridor. Often, the intricacies of Gullah Geechee culture are lost in rigid expectations, deadlines, and lack of cultural competency. This session examines Gullah Geechee customs and historical context, weaving intentional communal frameworks into standard engagement practice.
AM - 11:45 AM
FLOOD MITIGATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA
Pam Kendrick/Phleisha Lewis/Nancy Miramonti, SCOR Mitigation Division
Steve Kirk, City of Charleston / Zach Smoot, Woolpert
This session will highlight several flood mitigation projects across the state including the Ehrhardt Tunnel Project in Charleston, and the North Chastain & Little Creek Stream Restoration project in Greenville County. SCOR and local staff will discuss the need for, project details, and benefits of these projects. Funding for these projects was provided by SCOR’s CDBG-MIT and ARPA funded mitigation program.
GREEN EXERCISE & BLUE MIND: NATURE’S ROLE IN BUILDING RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
Dr. Susan Johnson, Ph.D, Director of Health Promotion, MUSC
Brian Thill, Director of Education, South Carolina Aquarium
Explore how green exercise (physical activity in natural environments) and the Blue Mind (the calming effects of water exposure) can foster community health and resilience. This session highlights successful programs and initiatives in South Carolina that connect outdoor recreation with health promotion and conservation.
STRONGER TOGETHER: THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP IN CONSERVATION SUCCESS
Chris Crolley, President, Coastal Expeditions Foundation
Join Chris to discuss conservation in South Carolina and the critical importance of partnerships in successful environmental projects. Learn about several key projects in the Lowcountry that could have only happened through collaboration and teamwork.
12 pm - 12:45 PM LUNCH
1 pm - 1:30 PM Free Time Exhibition Hall Open
THE CASE FOR CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY AND A RESILIENT ECONOMY
Leslie Skardon, CEO, Sustain SC
Sustainability is not a “nice to have” for organizations, but an economic imperative. This is true not only when looking at how to become more efficient from an operations perspective, but also as we examine global economic resilience. Sustainability and resilience planning are key factors as we continue to adapt to a changing world and respond to natural disasters. This session will do a deep dive into how corporate planning and preparedness in energy, circularity and conservation can help create a more resilient economy and world.
nutrition and environmental strategies for optimum health
Jana Davis MS, RDN Functional Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Owner of Carolina Green Living, LLC. Founder of First Surfrider Ocean Friendly Restaurant Program on the East Coast
Learn more about how the choices we make about food and our environment impact our overall health and well-being. We can greatly support our brain and cognitive function, our immune system and even our bones by making the right food choices and supporting our gut health. This talk will highlight the importance of consuming specific nutrient-dense foods while addressing environmental factors like washing produce to reduce pesticide exposure and minimizing plastics and other harmful chemicals in the preparation of our food. What we serve, prepare and cook our food and drinks in is equally important as the food we eat. Attendees will learn more about the best product options to use.
HARNESSING ADVANCED ENERGY
Dr. Julius Fridriksson, USC VP of Research; Dr. Tom Mullikin, Chairman of Governor’s Floodwater Commission; Dr. Travis W. Knight, USC Nuclear Engineering
Deploying reliable affordable and sustainable energy is critical to meeting climate related challenges. South Carolina can continue to serve as a global model for reduction of environmental footprint while enhancing economic output through advanced energy such as Small Modular Reactors and advanced storage to support other forms of clean energy.
TRAILBLAZING TOGETHER: ENGAGING COMMUNITIES WITH SC CALM, SC7, AND SC TRAIL TOWNS
Michelle McCollum, Yuka Greer &Abbey Crocker, South Carolina National Heritage Corridor
Is your community home to incredible natural resources that deserve to be shared with residents and visitors alike? This session is your opportunity to learn how to bring the SC National Heritage Corridor’s three exciting programs—SC Calm (a forest therapy initiative), SC7, and SC Trail Towns—to your area. Discover how these initiatives promote health and wellness for your citizens, enhance quality of life, and provide opportunities to boost your local economy.
2:15 PM - 2:45 PM AFTERNOON BREAK Exhibition Hall OPEN
2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
THE ECONOMICS OF RESILIENCE
Alex Butler, Resilience Planning Director, SCOR
Economics is a key component in resilience. This session will explore financial risk data and discuss the cost saving of mitigation and resilience investments.
Aesthetics and Your Community’s Image
Sarah Lyles, Director of PalmettoPride and Esther Wagner, Awareness & Education Coordinator Palmetto Pride
Litter is not just a problem of blight, it is a harbinger of community decline. Last year, PalmettoPride gave an overview of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. This year, Esther Wagner and Sarah Lyles will delve deeper into sustainable community improvements through litter prevention, street-scaping and public art.
Effects of Stress Hormones On the Body: bringing the mind and body back to homeostasis using a holistic approach
Nilüfer Ece Bozkan -Author, Yoga Instructor and Founder of Wellness with Nilufer, a holistic lifestyle practice specializing in nutrition and mindful movement
Stress levels ebb and flow all day long, rising and dipping with external and internal stimuli. While we need stress hormones to function, there is a point where prolonged high levels of stress and cortisol start to have adverse effects on the body. In this session we will discuss the hormones but more importantly how to manage the effects of and detoxing the body of cortisol. There is no running away from the fact that our lifestyles are cortisol inducing, but we can manage how it affects us, making sure that it doesn’t lead to detrimental health outcomes and making sure that we are still able to show up as our optimal selves both at work and at home.
An Introduction to Permaculture: Building Resilient Communities Through Sustainable Design
Scott Bunn, Founder, Treehouse
Trade
School
Permaculture Principles & Ethics: Understanding how nature-based design can create regenerative and resilient communities.
Practical Applications: How to implement permaculture in urban and rural settings, from food forests to water management.
Building a Self-Sustaining Future: Integrating permaculture into construction, homesteading, and disaster recovery efforts.
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
CLOSING RECEPTION
Blue Jeans, Bluegrass, and BBQ at Southernside Brewing
Enjoy a relaxing evening celebrating our Appalachian heritage with bluegrass and BBQ at Southernside Brewing.
Note: Transportation will not be provided. However, ample parking is available at the venue for those who choose to drive. Alternatively, a group led by the SC7 Expedition Team will depart from the hotel lobby at 6:00 PM to walk to the venue, which is approximately 1.4 miles away.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9TH
8 AM - 9 AM BREAKFAST
9 AM -9:45 AM KEYNOTE ADDRESS: STATE OF CONSERVATION IN SOUTH CAROLINA
Dr. Tom Mullikin, Director of SCDNR
10:00 Am - 11:30 AM REMARKS FROM THE Honorable Henry McMAster, Governor of South Carolina, and awards presentations
11:30 AM CLOSING REMARKS
12:00 PM NETWORKING LUNCHEON
CONFERENCE NOTES
