Best and Brightest Columbia 2025

Welcome to our 2025 Best and Brightest 35 and Under. This year for the first time, we’re recognizing individuals from five geographic regions of South Carolina: Greenville, Columbia, Charleston, the Grand Strand, and now the Pee Dee region.

We launched our B2B: Pee Dee Business edition earlier this year, and we’re proud to add accomplished young people from that region to this year’s list.

The individuals in these five regions are still young, but they’re making a difference in so many fields, from real estate to banking, the law to education, health care to hospitality.

We salute them, and we can’t wait to see what else they accomplish in the coming years. Each one has his or her own story to tell, and it is our privilege to share those stories with our readers.

We will honor all of these remarkable young leaders at events in their respective cities during September and October.

Cara Anderson

Age 31

Director of Programs

Build Carolina

Photo credit: Cara Davis Anderson

I am the director of programs at Build Carolina, where for the past two years I’ve led our apprenticeship, and have recently begun leading our academy program — helping individuals gain the education and training needed to enter the tech industry. I’m especially excited about our work in Orangeburg County, where, through the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) grant program, we’re expanding technical apprenticeship opportunities for students and alumni of Claflin University, Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College, and South Carolina State University. As a Columbia, South Carolina, native, I’m committed to supporting the growth of our city into a vibrant place to live and work. I am also the author of “Austin the Great,” a children’s book promoting inclusion and acceptance, and a co-author in the textbook “Minority Voices in Higher Education: Toward a Global Majority.”

Your favorite quote and why:

"People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”

I love this quote because it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of being kind, genuine, and grounded in character. Life will challenge you, and there will be moments of pain and adversity —but those are the times when your true self shines through. In my own darkest moments, I try to hold onto joy and continue being a source of light for myself and others.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

I believe a successful leader is someone who communicates goals and expectations clearly and ensures everyone is on the same page. They are open to new ideas and willing to try different approaches. They bring out the best in their team by recognizing and leveraging the strengths of each team member to foster collaboration and drive results.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Let go of the need to have everything figured out or control how you imagine life will look. Set goals and be intentional in you efforts to reach them, but stay open and expect the unexpected. The path may look very different from what you imagined, and that's okay. Embrace it. Some of the most beautiful growth and strength come from the unknown.

Griffin Brooks

Age 26

Instructor of Statistics

University of South Carolina

Photo Credit: Jack Allen

A quality education in any form is something I consider invaluable. My earliest teachers were my parents and grandparents. During my time at the University of Alabama, two professors challenged me academically in ways I had never experienced. The passion they displayed for their subjects in the classroom transferred to me. As a statistics instructor at USC, I model my lectures after the pedagogy of these two professors. I tell my students the best way to grow is to be challenged. I want my students to actively learn rather than passively. I incorporate current events and my nerdy interests – such as roller coasters – into lectures to keep my students engaged. Outside the classroom, I volunteer at the USC Disability Center, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and participate in races that fund-raise for charitable causes.

Your favorite quote and why:

“That’s all we do isn’t it - look at things and try new drinks?” — Ernest Hemingway

“Hills Like White Elephants”, my favorite short story, follows a couple at a train station discussing their future. We face many difficult choices in life, and whatever we choose should be decided with intention.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

A successful leader is both a listener and doer. He or she listens to input from the team and is able to think critically while inspiring others to do their best work.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Failure is inevitable. How you respond to failure, whether through perseverance or adjusting the sail, is what shapes your life.

Benjamin Calhoun

Age 33

Attorney/Shareholder

Turner Padget Graham & Laney, P.A.

Photo provided

I am presently the youngest shareholder at my firm, Turner Padget, and I focus my practice on defending employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured clients in workers’ compensation matters across the Carolinas. For this, I have earned recognition as one of Columbia Business Monthly’s Legal Elite in Workers’ Compensation Defense from 2021 to 2023. Previously, I served as staff counsel to the South Carolina Administrative Law Court, which provided me with a unique judicial perspective on legal challenges. I grew up in a rural, blue-collar hometown built on a true sense of community. For me, continuing to return to my hometown to serve as a mentor to others, continuing to aid in this community’s development, and to share my professional experience is only natural given the gifts it bestowed me.

Molly Campolong

Age 35

Member

Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC

Photo Credit: Robinson Gray

I am a Member at Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC, where I have practiced law for eight years. Prior to working at Robinson Gray, I clerked for Justice Few at both the South Carolina Supreme Court and the South Carolina Court of Appeals. I practice in the areas of commercial transactions and corporate bankruptcy law. I have two young children, Betsy, four, and Chase, two, and a wonderful husband, also Chase. My husband Chase helps me to succeed in my career and at home every day. In my career, my goal is to help clients to solve their business and real estate issues, whether that is in front-end transactions and counsel or back-end workouts and commercial bankruptcies. More broadly, my goals include being a trustworthy person and a good mother to my children.

Kelsey Carter

Age 33

Executive Director

Camp Cole

Photo Credit: Provided

I’ve always had a passion for summer camp, especially after my brother Cole, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2004, and I shared a transformative experience that inspired the creation of Camp Cole. Along with our parents, Cole and I took part in a diagnosis-specific camp that connected us with other families facing similar challenges. We created memories that fueled my passion for helping others and laid the groundwork for my future. I followed my interests to the University of South Carolina, where I earned an honors degree in education. After graduation, I worked as an elementary teacher in Dallas, Texas, before returning to Columbia to kick-start the origins of Camp Cole. I’m married to Ben Carter and the mom of two precious boys.

Sara Caudle

Age 35

Investment Associate

Anchor Investment Management, LLC

Photo Credit: Lynn Luc

As an investment associate at Anchor Investment Management, I’m passionate about building lasting relationships and helping clients navigate life’s financial moments with clarity and care. Originally from Virginia, I graduated from Roanoke College with degrees in economics and business administration, and moved to Columbia in 2014 to grow both personally and professionally. Since then, this city has become home. I’m actively involved in the Rotary Club of Five Points and the United Way of the Midlands Young Leaders Society — two organizations that allow me to support meaningful causes and create local impact. As I continue growing in my leadership role at Anchor, I’m focused on mentoring others, enhancing the client experience, and contributing to the firm’s long-term success. Just as I’m committed to my clients, I’m equally dedicated to giving back.

Madison Crook

Age 26

Director of Operations and Human Resources

The Charter Institute at Erskine

Photo Credit: Jacob Carter

Born and raised in rural South Carolina, my small-town roots instilled in me a deep awareness of educational inequity, a passion that has driven my career. In my three years with the Institute, I’ve been instrumental in overseeing the strategic planning and execution of operational processes and human resource functions. I earned my degree in business administration with a human resource concentration from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina in 2021. Previously, I served as the executive assistant and coordinator of operations, where I provided comprehensive administrative support to executives, managed travel arrangements, maintained office and training calendars, and prepared responses to routine inquiries. I’m grateful for the opportunity to help support the Institute staff so they can better support the schools within the Charter Institute at Erskine portfolio.

Ashley Dixon

Age 35

Attorney

Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward

Photo: RGSL

I’ve had the opportunity to represent custodians, nurses, forklift drivers, manufacturers, etc. from all different socioeconomic backgrounds and walks of life. I’ve made many clients laugh when asking them to explain terms of the trade that may seem like second nature but are a foreign concept to a girl whose tool kit is hot pink. Being afforded the chance to meet and help people from such diverse circumstances has made me a better person. You never know what someone is going through, and I now stop and think about that before any encounter I have. I am so fortunate to be able to make a daily impact in the lives of so many across our state; I hope they realize the immeasurable impact they’ve had on mine.

Jamey Dye

Age 31

VP, Business Development & Distribution

Van idge

Photo Credit: Taylor Adams

I am the VP of business development and distribution for Van idge, a national insurance firm. Over the last 8½ years, I have worked to protect our clients and their insurance needs. My goal has been to ensure that a life tragedy does not also become a financial tragedy. I married the love of my life, Lauren Dye, this past April. We enjoy spending time together, going to Lake Murray, watching different sporting events and eating out at our favorite restaurants. I am a proud South Carolina grad with a bachelor’s degree in finance. I currently serve on the board of directors for the Palmetto Club as treasurer. I have served on the Midlands Heart Ball Planning Committee, and I am also the vice president of my BNI Group.

Michael Eargle

Age 27

Founder/President

M.E. Contracting

Photo Credit: Zach Clark

Being around the construction industry at a young age really instilled in me a love for building. Although I grew up a Gamecock fan, I discovered Clemson offered a construction science and management program. After graduating, I worked with large contractors in Charlotte and Atlanta. My father’s good friend, David Welsford, encouraged me to take the NASCLA General Contractor’s Exam. I was intimidated and considered just taking the residential exam, saying, “I don’t think I’ll ever do anything big enough to need NASCLA.” He insisted, “Take the big one, you never know where you’ll end up.” I’m incredibly grateful for that encouragement. I love this sector because working on larger projects means we get to impact more people in the communities we serve.

Anna Flynn

Age 32

Team Lead

Carahsoft Technology Inc.

Photo Credit: Patrick Flynn

As a team lead at Carahsoft, I help drive Adobe’s marketing strategy across government, education, and commercial sectors. My role allows me to work across teams and industries to connect organizations with solutions that improve communication, learning, and innovation. In addition to my work in tech, I hold both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in voice performance and was honored to win the Tennessee Symphony’s Concerto Competition. I’ve performed leading roles in operas such as “Carmen,” “L’Elisir d’Amore,” and “Hänsel und Gretel.” While my career path led me into marketing and leadership, the discipline and creativity I developed through music continue to shape who I am today. Whether through business or the arts, I’m passionate about using my skills to create a lasting impact and help others succeed.

Chandler Garnett

Age 31

Pastides Alumni Center Director of Sales

USC Alumni Association

Photo Credit: Jesse Breazeale

Born and raised in downtown Columbia, I am a proud alumna of Dreher High School and the University of South Carolina, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management. I currently serve as the Pastides Alumni Center director of sales for the USC Alumni Association. My career began at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden as events manager, followed by the role of sales manager for Experience Columbia SC. Passionate about fostering Columbia’s continued growth, I serve as secretary of Columbia Opportunity Resource, secretary and fundraising committee chair for the Palladium Board of Historic Columbia, and as a member of the Junior Achievement of Greater South Carolina Midlands Young Professional Advisory Board. In my free time, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, playing tennis, cheering on the Gamecocks, and exploring local restaurants and festivals with my husband, Jordan.

John Givens III

Age 33

Project Manager

Construction Dynamics Incorporated

Photo provided

I am a project manager at Construction Dynamics Incorporated. My journey in the built environment began at a young age, working for my father’s masonry company. My passion for construction management led me to seek an internship with CDI while studying civil engineering at South Carolina State University. Learning a trade as a teenager and working with CDI as an undergraduate provided me with a strong foundation for my career. Since graduating, I have successfully put in place over $250 million in construction projects across various sectors. I want to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in the built environment and advocate for trade and technical education. I am thrilled to be back at Construction Dynamics, which truly feels like home to me.

Reginald Hair

Age 33

Attorney and Founder of Hair Law Firm

Hair Law Firm

Photo Credit: Stephanie Williams Portraits

After graduating from the South Carolina Honors College at USC in 2013 and earning my law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 2015, I knew I wanted to use my legal career to drive meaningful change. As the founder of Hair Law Firm, a personal injury practice dedicated to helping the injured seek justice, my mission goes beyond building a successful firm. I’m also honored to be a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and I co-founded the Follow Today Lead Tomorrow Scholarship at my former high school to help students reach their potential and ease the financial burden of college. Through sponsorships, speaking at career day events, and youth outreach, I strive to represent what’s possible when you trust God, work hard, and lead with purpose.

Connor Hudson

Age 30

Manager of Transmission Planning & Reliability

Central Electric Power Cooperative, Inc.

Photo Credit: Central Electric

As manager of Transmission Planning and Reliability at Central Electric, I support South Carolina’s electric distribution cooperatives through a wide range of responsibilities including transmission modeling/analysis, project initialization, generator interconnection, and general engineering support. My passion for continuous learning and problem-solving makes serving the state’s electric cooperatives a rewarding part of my professional journey. Originally from Union, South Carolina, I was raised in an entrepreneurial family rooted in the utility sector, sparking an early interest in power systems. My fascination with science and math naturally led me to engineering, earning a B.S. from Clemson and an M.S. from Georgia Tech in electrical engineering. I began my career in research in Charleston before refocusing on utility power systems. Currently pursuing my MBA at the University of South Carolina, I am driven by a deep commitment to service – to people, to communities, and to the future of South Carolina’s electric grid.

Emily James

Age 33

Business Development Representative

Find Great People

Photo provided

As a proud Columbia native, I’ve built my career around connecting with purpose. At Find Great People, I’ve had the privilege of helping my clients make over 500 successful placements across various industries, roles, and skill levels. I take pride in being committed to creating lasting placements that support long-term growth for both individuals and organizations. I currently serve as vice chair of the board for Growing Home Southeast, and I’m actively involved in the Columbia Chamber of Commerce as a board member and chair of the Chamber Diplomats. I’m also a Leadership Columbia graduate and now serve on the program’s board. Long-term, I hope to continue growing professionally while supporting the development of others. Watching Columbia thrive and grow excites me, and I’m honored to play a small part in its future.

Jacob Kea

Age 28

Attorney

Reeves and Kea, LLC

Photo provided

I grew up in Chapin, South Carolina, and am proud to be a first-generation college graduate and attorney. After earning my law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law, I began my legal career at a national firm. Over time, I realized my passion was working more directly with individuals and families facing real-life challenges. That calling led me and my mentor, Paul Reeves, to form Reeves and Kea — a firm dedicated to providing legal representation to those who need it most. I’ve had the privilege of helping clients in cases involving serious injury, wrongful death, civil rights violations, and consumer fraud. My long-term goal is to grow Reeves and Kea into a household name for outstanding legal representation and a model of professionalism and courtesy, even in adversarial settings like litigation.

Kristina Leaphart

Age 31

Director of Marketing

Trinity Partners

Photo Credit: Amanda Coco

After graduating from the University of South Carolina in 2016, I moved to Raleigh where I spent five years honing my skills in commercial real estate marketing at two respected national firms. Born and raised in Lexington County, I always knew I’d return home — and in 2021, Trinity Partners gave me the opportunity. As director of marketing for Trinity Partners Columbia, I lead all aspects of our marketing efforts. My role includes overseeing property marketing deliverables, listing content, targeted email campaigns, research and analytics, press releases, social media strategy, and company events. I collaborate closely with our property management teams to craft and execute thoughtful, marketing plans that support our clients. I’m passionate about building campaigns that tell a story, reflect the strength of our team, and highlight the unique value of each property.

Eric Mac Lain

Age 32

College Football Analyst

ESPN

Photo Credit: ACC

I am entering my seventh football season at ESPN. On Saturdays, I’m an analyst on the ACC Huddle, the ACC Network’s signature traveling football show that goes to the conference’s biggest games in the fall. During the week, I have my own show, “Gramlich and Mac Lain,” that airs on SiriusXM and on YouTube. I played at Clemson 2011-‘15, where the Tigers captured two conference championships and made a national championship appearance. I’m a member of Shandon Baptist, and my wife, Kaki, and I have a 3-year-old daughter, Amelia Rose. Community is such a vital piece of our existence. We must recognize that giving back to our community can help shape a more supportive, equitable and thriving environment for others to succeed. Giving back is a responsibility and privilege that I do not take for granted.

Katie McCoy

Age 31

Project Manager

Thomas & Hutton

Photo Credit: Jessica Brady

I’m a Licensed Professional Engineer with a B.S. in environmental engineering from Georgia Tech, and I’m proud to be licensed in South Carolina, Georgia, and North Carolina. Since graduating in 2015, I’ve remained deeply engaged in the engineering community — completing the ACEC-SC Future Leaders Program in 2024 and serving on the ACEC-SC Environmental Affairs Committee and the WEASC Industrial Wastewater Committee. I take pride in being a trusted adviser to my clients and am committed to expanding our team’s presence and impact across the Southeast. Through leading the T&H Helping Hands initiative in Columbia, I’ve helped organize volunteer efforts and donations for local nonprofits like Harvest Hope Food Bank, Transitions Homeless Shelter, and Epworth Children’s Home — because strong communities start with showing up.

Ben McDougald

Age 27

Director of Development

University of South Carolina Athletics

Photo Credit: Brie Andrews

Originally from Anderson, South Carolina, I came to Columbia during Covid to pursue a graduate degree in sport and entertainment management. While in school, I took a job with South Carolina Athletics and quickly found a passion for supporting student-athletes. I focus my work on securing philanthropic support for USC Athletics. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is making a direct impact on the student-athlete experience and helping shape their success both on and off the field. I believe today’s student-athletes are tomorrow’s leaders of South Carolina, and I’m proud to play a part in their journey. Sharing in the success of our teams and seeing the positive impact they have on our community is something I’m truly grateful to be a part of.

Franklin McGuire

Age 33

Attorney

Goings Law Firm

Photo Credit: Stephanie Williams

I’m a father of two amazing boys and husband to the ever-wonderful Aryn, and for nearly 10 years now, it has been my great honor to serve in the Army National Guard. I’ve also started, grown, and exited several businesses while walking the professional path that led me to my current role as an attorney at Goings Law Firm. As a catastrophic personal injury attorney, I’m a resource no one needs until something truly devastating happens in their life. Being invited into those families and situations and getting an opportunity to help people in their hours of deepest need is the highest privilege I’ve ever known. To me, giving back to the community is simple, if not easy — it means dying to yourself, putting others first, and walking humbly along the path to which you’re called.

Jennifer Medina-Gurrera

Age 32

Senior Accountant

Children’s Trust of South Carolina

Photo Credit: Yair Centeno

As a Columbia, South Carolina native, I’ve always felt that I was meant to help others. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a master’s in accounting, I worked as an external and internal auditor before deciding I wanted to do more direct work giving back to the community. I joined the Children’s Trust of South Carolina team in 2022 as a senior accountant and have enjoyed being a part of creating a better community for children and families in South Carolina. When I first graduated, I wanted to do more networking and volunteer work in the community, but I wasn’t sure where to start. This is when I learned about Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR) and joined as a member before becoming a board member and chair of the volunteer action team.

Bret Mealing Jr.

Age 35

VP of Sales

SC Em oidery

Photo Credit: Columbia Metropolitan Magazine

I am a proud husband, father, and entrepreneur with over 13 years of sobriety — an achievement that has shaped every part of my life. My journey in recovery has given me the clarity and purpose to help grow my family’s business, SC Embroidery, which provides top-quality promotional products and marketing solutions to companies across the region. But my passion goes far beyond business. As a professional motivational speaker, I share my story of addiction, recovery, and hope with schools, organizations, and community groups. I also give back by staying active in the recovery community, attending multiple 12-step meetings each week, and mentoring others. Most recently, a business partner and I launched the first sober living home in Columbia specifically for college students — filling a vital gap in support for young adults in recovery.

Jason Mohn

Age 32

Financial Adviser

Northwestern Mutual

Photo Credit: Rob Mueller

Homegrown in Columbia, I graduated from the University of South Carolina Honors College, later earning an MBA with a finance concentration at USC before joining Northwestern Mutual. My hometown and its success are extremely important to me. I serve on the board of the Babcock Center Foundation and volunteer as a financial counselor to a fraternity at USC. I believe connections are important, and I am president of a business-networking group, sharing ideas with local entrepreneurs. I speak regularly at USC and try to remain actively involved on campus through service, mentorship, and cheering on Gamecock athletics. For many years, I’ve enjoyed coaching and officiating youth baseball and basketball throughout the Columbia area. I live in Forest Acres surrounded by family and friends with my wife Shelby, my high school sweetheart, and our two children.

Haley Moorman

Age 30

Attorney

Robinson Gray Stepp & Laffitte, LLC

Photo Credit: Joshua Aaron Photography

I grew up in Irmo, South Carolina, and earned both my undergraduate and law degrees from the University of South Carolina. My journey with Robinson Gray began back in 2015 as a file clerk, then a law clerk, and now as an attorney. I am also proudly co-chair of two programs: our law clerk program, supporting our clerks as they grow; and the publications committee of the S.C. Bar Young Lawyers Division, which allows me to extend that impact even further by connecting with young lawyers across the state. I also enjoy teaching Sunday school at my local church, which has taught me I didn’t miss my calling to be a teacher! I’ve been honored to receive recognition for this work from South Carolina Super Lawyers and Columbia Business Monthly.

Vianca Mireya Murray

Age 24

Chief Executive Officer, Entertainment Publicist, and Law Adviser

Vision Oasis Entertainment

Photo Credit: Adley Haywood

As a CEO, law adviser, and entertainment publicist, I’ve built my career helping entertainment industry entities turn vision into impact. I’m the founder of Vision Oasis Entertainment, a public relations, marketing, and management agency, and I also serve as PR manager and publicist at 247 Live Culture, a prominent Los Angeles rising entertainment agency. There, I lead campaigns, secure press coverage, and manage our PR department across music, film, and culture. I’m a graduate of Winston-Salem State University and New York University, where I studied entertainment law, PR, marketing, and music business. My portfolio includes work with global brands like Sony, Netflix, BET, and local businesses. My long-term goals include growing Vision Oasis into a full-service firm, launching a nonprofit, and establishing mentorship programs that empower Black youth in law, media, entertainment, and entrepreneurship.

Kristin Olcott

Age 35

Director of Authorization

The Charter Institute at Erskine

Photo Credit: Jacob Carter

After earning a degree in early childhood education from the University of South Carolina, I spent seven years as an elementary school teacher. That experience helped shape my understanding of what it takes to build successful learning environments that serve students, families, and communities. As Director of Authorization at the Charter Institute at Erskine, I help guide the development and opening of innovative, high-quality charter schools across South Carolina. My work centers on ensuring that new schools are prepared to operate effectively and deliver on their mission from day one. Looking ahead, I am committed to expanding access to excellent educational options for students and families. I believe that when schools are empowered to innovate and meet the unique needs of their communities, students thrive.

Evan Phillips

Age 35

Attorney

Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP

Photo Credit: Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP

Born and raised in Lexington, I now live in Columbia with my wife, Daina, and son, Theodore. I played golf at Presbyterian College, where I graduated with a degree in business administration. After graduating, I pursued professional golf for a couple of years. Once I decided to move in a different direction, I worked for Setzler & Scott P.A., which ultimately led me to attend law school. During my time in law school, I was also the managing editor of the South Carolina Law Review. I have worked at Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP since my first summer in law school and never seriously considered working anywhere else. I am surrounded by extremely intelligent and talented attorneys across practice groups who have afforded me the opportunity to continuously learn new areas of the law.

Micah Rea

Age 31

Director

Trump/Vance Presidential Appointee – U.S. Department of Commerce

Photo credit: U.S. Department of Commerce

I was born in Moscow, Russia, and adopted at the age of 3 by a loving Christian family who filled my life with Jesus, opportunity, and purpose. I’ve served in top leadership roles on gubernatorial, congressional, and local campaigns and was honored to work in the office of Gov. Henry McMaster and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette. I later launched my own consulting firm, advising successful candidates across the state and nation. I’ve had the privilege of serving as Chairman and as a member of numerous South Carolina boards dedicated to advancing Christian values. On April 1, 2025, I was appointed by the Trump/Vance Administration as director of the Office of Faith-Based Initiatives at the U.S. Department of Commerce, where I serve in Washington, D.C., advising the president and secretary on faith-based policy.

Rebecca Spence

Age 29

Partner Relations Coordinator

Columbia Chamber of Commerce

Photo Credit: Anna Peterson

I am the partner development coordinator at the Columbia Chamber, where I foster strategic partnerships, coordinate ribbon-cutting events, and lead the Diplomat Committee. Raised in Lexington, SC, I have a deep understanding of the local business landscape and a strong commitment to our community’s economic growth. With a degree in mass communications from the University of South Carolina, I blend relationship-building skills with strategic insight to guide partners through their journey with the Chamber, ensuring they see value and lasting results. My long-term goal is to expand the Chamber’s reach and influence, creating more opportunities for businesses to connect, grow, and thrive. Giving back to the community means using my skills, resources, and network to uplift others — whether by supporting small businesses, mentoring emerging leaders, or helping create programs that address local needs.

Mary Kate Toland

Age 27

Partner

The Southern Group

Photo Credit: Brittany Morgan Clark

I’m proud to call South Carolina home and have dedicated my career here as a lobbyist and policy professional with The Southern Group since 2017. As the youngest partner at the firm, I’ve had the privilege of helping pass meaningful legislation that drives real results for the industries I represent. I’m a graduate of the University of South Carolina as well as Leadership South Carolina. My background in advocacy and communications allows me to approach each challenge with energy, creativity, and a collaborative spirit. This year, I was honored to be named a South Carolina Women in Business award recipient. Long-term, I hope to continue building a career rooted in integrity and giving back to the state that’s given me so much. I live in Charleston with my husband Joe and our 2-year-old son, Chalmers.

Lawrence "Dale" Turner

Age 30

Attorney-at-Law

Laddaga-Garrett, P.A.

Photo Credit: MPA Strategies

I grew up in Sumter, South Carolina, I'm the oldest of four children, and I recently had my first child, Sophia. I am a double graduate from the University of South Carolina, where I earned both my undergraduate degree in public health, and my Juris Doctor at the Joseph F. Rice School of Law. After beginning my career as a family law attorney at Moore Bradley Myers, I now practice health care law at Laddaga-Garrett, P.A., where we represent hospital systems and health care providers against health insurance organizations. I work closely with my mentor, Lawrence Laddaga, and one day plan to step into his shoes to manage our law firm. I am proud to have made Columbia my home, where I began my career, married my wife, and started our family.

Emily White

Age 28

Social Media Marketing Director

CVETS

Photo Credit: Paige Kelso

I refer to myself as “the girl who makes TikToks,” but in reality, I'm a communications professional with a passion for building meaningful connections through storytelling. In my current role as social media marketing director at CVETS, I combine creativity with a data-driven approach to enhance brand visibility. My previous roles allowed me to amplify mission-driven organizations and foster civic engagement across the Midlands. My education and background in journalism help me create engaging and heartfelt stories that I’m very proud to share with the community. I earned my degree in broadcast journalism from the University of South Carolina and fell in love with Soda City. I decided to stay and have made it my home with my husband, Tyler. When I'm not working, I love diving into a new novel.

Corey Wise

Age 32

Project Manager

Thomas & Hutton

Photo Credit: Thomas & Hutton

I was born and raised in Lexington, South Carolina, and earned my B.S. in civil engineering from the University of South Carolina in 2015. Shortly after graduating, I joined Thomas & Hutton, where I’ve had the opportunity to serve as a project manager. In my role, I lead civil engineering projects that support growth across the Southeast, including industrial parks, data centers, and large-scale developments like the Scout Motors EV facility. I’ve been fortunate to mentor emerging engineers, volunteer through T&H Helping Hands, and coach youth football in my hometown. Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep learning, take on new challenges, and contribute to work that makes a lasting impact. Whether in the field, at the office, or out in the community, I strive to give my best to every opportunity.

Your favorite quote and why:

"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena." — Theodore Roosevelt

In a world of endless opinions and criticisms, action is really what counts.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

The best leaders are the ones who are barely noticed. When the work is done and the goal is reached, everyone feels like they did it themselves.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

You will stumble, but keep moving and work hard, no matter what.

Alexis Wood

Age 29

Director of Finance

Central Carolina Community Foundation

Photo provided

At 29 years old, I’m a proud mother to my 6-year-old daughter, Skylar, and the director of finance at Central Carolina Community Foundation. After earning my bachelor’s degree in accounting from Coastal Carolina University in 2018, I began building a career centered around finance, leadership, and service. In 2024, I graduated from Leadership Columbia, and in 2025, I completed the United Way of the Midlands Blueprint for Leadership program, which equipped me to make an impact as a board member. Currently, I’m serving my second term on the board of Columbia Opportunity Resource as vice chair of operations, and my first term on the Palladium Board at Historic Columbia. My long-term goal is launching or serving on a nonprofit that sponsors teenagers to travel around the world, exposing them to new cultures and career paths.

Your favorite quote and why:

My favorite quote is, “You won’t worry about the future if you’re firmly rooted in the present.” It’s a powerful reminder for me, especially because I often get caught up in what’s next instead of appreciating where I am right now. This quote encourages me to pause and truly acknowledge how far I’ve come. It reminds me to give thanks, be proud of myself, and to live fully in today.

What is your definition of a successful leader?

To me, a successful leader is someone who uplifts those around them and leads with a strong sense of care, responsibility, and integrity. True leadership isn’t about standing alone at the top —it’s about bringing others up with you. After all, how can you call yourself a great leader if you’re the only one in your circle growing or succeeding?

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

I would tell my 18-year-old self not to rush to grow up — adulthood will come fast enough, and there’s no prize for racing to the finish line. Take time to explore, make mistakes, and figure out what truly matters to you and the kind of life you want to build.