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2D ...........................................................................................................THE STATE SUNDAY MARCH 20 2016

One helped start an an-

nual flyover along thecoast to honor the

state’s military men

and women.

Another uses music to help

mentor and inspire young peo-

ple.

One volunteers her time to

prosecute domestic violence

cases, and another led his com-pany in delivering 2,000 pizzas

after last October’s floods.

The 2016 members of The

State’s 20 under 40 class serve

their communities in a varietyof ways. Some have devoted

their careers to helping people

of all ages forge a better life.

Others volunteer countless

hours to make the Midlands an

even better place to live and

visit.

For the past 13 years, The

State has honored annually 20

people under the age of 40 who

are making a difference in our

community. The winners are

selected from nominations sub-

mitted by our readers.

This year’s class is featured

throughout this special section.On these pages you will meet

people who are immensely proud

of the Midlands. You’ll also learn

that each is committed to mak-

ing the region even better.

The State is proud to honor

these young men and women.

We’re grateful for the contribu-

tions they’ve already made, and

we’re excited about the future

they will help build.

Paul Osmundson

Associate Editor

TRACY GLANTZ [email protected]

20 young professionalshelping to build Midlands

Charlie Banks .............. ................ ...........18

Joshua A. Bennett..................................13

Mauricus “Moe” Brown ............. .............13

Lauren Chess..........................................14

Jarrett Coco............................................15

Andy Folsom............................................7

Nathaniel Walter Graham III ............... ....9

John C. Griggs III ............... ............... .....16

Katherine Swartz Hilton ............... .........18

Kristen Jerome.......................................10

Erin E. Johnson ......................................17

Michelle Parsons Kelley... ............... .......12

Spann Laffitte ............... ............... ............3

Sarah C. Longshore................................11

Jeremy Martin .........................................6

Bianca “BiancaChardei”

Richardson .....15

Marvin E. Robinson Jr. ....... ............... ......7

Neal Douglas Truslow...... ............... .......12

Joseph Walker III....................................11

Nikole (Nikki) Williams............ ............... .4

Bios compiled by: Paul Osmundson

Photos by: Matt Walsh & Tim Dominick

INDEX

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SUNDAY MARCH 20 2016 THE STATE ..................................................................................................... 3D

Favorite quote or saying:

“He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; Who hasthe respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; Who has filled his niche andaccomplished his task; Who has left the worldbetter than he found it; Who has never lackedappreciation of earth’s beauty or failed toexpress it; Who has always looked for the bestin others and given the best he had; Whoselife was an inspiration; Whose memory abenediction.” — paraphrased from Elisabeth- Anne Anderson Stanley

Community or professional highlights:Friends of Epworth Board; Vernon Grants

committee member, Trinity Episcopal Cathe-dral; Salute from the Shore board member;Dental Access Days and Land of Smiles

My life changed when:I lost my father in December. In time the

grief will become more manageable, but Ihope that I will be able hold on to the perspec-tive that is so clear today. With the finite time

we have to allocate to what matters to us in

life, it’s critical to ensure what we “decide”matters, actually does. My faith, my family,my friends and my community are at the topof the list for me.

What do you want people to believeabout you?

I would hope that people feel that I am afun, genuine, hard-working, trustworthy in-dividual that is committed to his family, hisfriends and his community.

What do you like most about livingin the Midlands?

We’ve been incredibly fortunate to besurrounded by friends and family that have

welcomed us and helped make Columbia ourhome. There is so much that the Midlandsoffer that we enjoy. Some of our favorites havebeen family time spent along the Riverwalk,the trails of Congaree National Park, Game-cock sporting events, casual Saturdays at SodaCity, Sundays at Trinity Cathedral, and enjoy-ing the ever-growing restaurant scene.

The community’s response to the Octoberfloods epitomized what makes the Midlands a

wonderful place to live and raise a family. While we have all the benefits of an urbansetting, we still benefit from the communityfeel of a smaller town. That was clearly ondisplay as people took vacation days from

work to haul flood-damaged carpet and furni-ture out of the homes of people they hadnever met. We opened our hearts and homesto those that were impacted and it was repre-sentative of this community.

You have been recognized for givingback to the community. Why do youbelieve that involvement is important?

My maternal grandfather, Dr. HarrisonPeeples, had the following quote in his deskand it has always stuck with me: “The truemeaning of life is to plant trees, under whoseshade you do not expect to sit.” By contrib-uting today we are making the communityand state a better place for generations tocome. I believe we each have that responsi-bility to give back and to be involved. Bydoing so not only do we improve the lives of others but we can derive much personal fulfill-ment in the process.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 39

OCCUPATION: Vice president of sales andaccount management, Delta Dental ofSouth Carolina

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SPANN LAFFITTE

CONGRATULATIONSSPANN!We congratulate H. Spann Laffitte, Jr. for being named

one of The State’s 2016 “Top 20 Under 40.”

We salute your professionalism, your leadership and

your passionate commitment to the welfare of your

community.

Thank you for being part of the

Delta Dental team!

H. Spann Laffitte, Jr.

Vice President of Sales

and Account Management

Delta Dental of South Carolina

Delta Dental of South Carolina

1320 Main Street, Suite 650 / Columbia, South Carolina 29201 / 803-454-8484

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My mother used to tell me everyday to always remember “Faith and Confidence”: Havefaith in God and confidence in yourself.

Community or professional highlights:Hartsville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sig-

ma Theta Sorority Inc.; early childhood coor-dinator for the S.C. Lowcountry Promise Zone;

International Noyce Leadership Fellow, 2014-2015; commissioner, Pop Warner Capital CityRavens Football League; Bookman Road Ele-mentary SIC; Lake Carolina Elementary SIC;Blueprint for Leadership Graduate

My life changed when:Everyday you walk out the door, your life

can change in an instant.When I was 15 yearsold, sitting in my high school library, I over-heard a disparaging conversation regardingpoor, run-down, rural schools (later to bedubbed “the corridor of shame”). I quicklyrealized this term was used to describe me, myfamily, my schools, and my community. Know-ing that we as students were already seen asunder-achievers, “can’t doers,” I knew that my

purpose in life was to ensure that no child I

would come in contact with would ever feelthat they could not achieve. My life changedagain in 2013 when my mother passed away.She was the backbone of our family and mybest friend. I would talk to her at least threetimes a day. When I lost her, I did not know

where my strength would come from. That year taught me resilience and determination.She would tell me to never give up no matterhow difficult the journey.


I want others to believe that everything I docomes from a place of love and compassion forthem as individuals. Each one of us has a storyand is fighting battles that few know about.And more often than not, we do not take thetime to recognize this. I want people to knowthat I care.


Columbia has the familiar small town feeling wrapped in the bigger city. There are many

opportunities to be involved with, whether

you’re looking for arts and culture or politicsand change. The people of the Midlands go outof their way to make sure you are surroundedby friends and are always there to lend a hand.I grew up in a small town where everybodyknows your name. The feeling here is the same.

What’s the most rewarding part of working at the S.C. Children’s Museum?

When I left the classroom 11 years ago, I setmy sights on finding a place that inspired chil-dren to learn and grow as individuals. Ed-

Venture opens the door to imagination and

creativity. There are no limits to what you mayexperience. Every so often I walk out on themuseum floor and watch children see Eddie(the 40-foot tall, 35,000-pound, 10-year-oldboy that sits in the middle of the museum) forthe first time. The excitement on their facesand the disbelief in their eyes makes me smileevery time. I have had the opportunity to doamazing things at EdVenture and breakthrough the walls of the bricks and mortar andoffer programming that was necessary for thebetterment of the people throughout S.C.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 36

OCCUPATION: Executive vice presidentof EdVenture Children's Museum

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NIKOLE (NIKKI) WILLIAMS


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lradac.org

Favorite quote or saying:“Make a career of humanity. Commit your-

self to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a greater person of yourself, a grea-ter nation of your country, and a finer world tolive in.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

Community or professional highlights: With more than 10 years working in the

nonprofit sector, Martin has dedicated hiscareer to helping others overcome addictionand rebuild their lives. His dedication andsuccess in this field stem from his personalexperience of having a substance use disorder

and his strong desire to support individuals intheir journey of recovery. He previouslyserved as Emergency Services Program Man-ager at Transitions, working to help individu-als who are homeless re-establish their lives.In 2014, Martin left to accept a quality assur-ance position at LRADAC, one of the largestsubstance use disorder treatment centers inSouth Carolina. Within six months of accept-ing this position, he became the agency’s vicepresident of treatment and intervention ser-

vices. Since 2014, he has also served as an

adjunct instructor for the University of SouthCarolina’s College of Social Work. In 2015, he

was awarded Alumnus of The Year by theUniversity of South Carolina’s College of Social Work. He has served on United Way of the Midlands’ Health Council since 2013, andcurrently as a member of its CommunityImpact Committee. He is vice president of theboard of directors for The Pressley House,

vice chair of Ment al Illness Recovery CenterInc.’s Human Rights Committee, a member of Faces of Voices of the Midlands’ Board of Directors, and was most recently selected to

serve on the board of directors for the Mid-lands Area Consortium for the Homeless.

My life changed when:I began to work a program dedicated to

supporting my recovery from substance use.The people that I met through this journey,and the work that I put in to changing my life,have helped me to realize the need for ad-

vocates who were dedicated to helping individuals with substance use disorders. This life

experience has shaped my career, my commit-

ment to helping others, and my personal life.


I want others to see my story as a demon-stration that recovery from substance usedisorders is possible, and that despite one’spast, recovery is limitless.


I love the community and that there are somany people actively involved in making it a

better place to live for all of our neighbors, not just those that are more fortunate.

How rewarding is it to help othersovercome their addictions?

Helping individuals with substance usedisorders re-establish their lives is one of themost rewarding experiences in my life. I amable to take the darkest times of my past anduse those to help others rebuild their lives andbuild a solid foundation for their future.

JEREMY MARTIN

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 35

OCCUPATION: Vice president of treatmentand intervention, LRADAC

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Favorite quote or saying:“Heights by great men reached and kept were

not obtained by sudden flight but, while theircompanions slept, they were toiling upward inthe night.” –Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Community or professional highlights:2012 Leadership Lexington County graduate;

2013 Leadership Columbia Graduate; past chair,Young Bankers Board, S.C. Bankers Association;chair, Tax and Accommodations Committee,town of Lexington; Chair, Greater LexingtonChamber of Commerce and Visitors Centerboard of directors; vice chair, Healing FamiliesFoundation; usher, Corpus Christi CatholicChurch

My life changed when:My first child was born. My wife and I discov-

ered that we had time for things that wedidn’t think we had. It taught me to bebetter at time management and to be moreefficient in tasks.


That I deliver upon expectations and Iam hard working, honest, ethical andreliable. I am efficient and responsive in

what I do and have a strong passion for mycommunity and the South Carolina bank-ing industry.


I enjoy its proximity to the mountainsand the beach. I like the quality of life itprovides and all of the opportunities there

are to get involved with organizations in theMidlands community.

As chairman of the Greater LexingtonChamber of Commerce, what do youbelieve are Lexington's greatestassets?

I believe Lexington has many assets. In noparticular order, those include Lake Murray,our hospital system, our schools, our baseballteam and stadium, our downtown businessesand restaurants, and our overall businesscommunity.

Finally, I feel that our best assets are ourcommunity leaders. Our leaders, along withthese other strengths, work together in orderto improve our quality of life, attract newbusinesses and generate smart growth for theLexington community.

MARVIN E. ROBINSON JR.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 39

OCCUPATION: Business bankingrelationship manager, Wells Fargo Bank,NA

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Favorite quote or saying:“Things turn out best for the people who

make the best of the way things turn out.”- John Wooden

Community or professional highlights: Working at BlueCross for almost seven

years with so many talented and dedicatedpeople has definitely been my professionalhighlight. I am also grateful to have been able

to serve my community and our state, as well, through helping t o found Salute fromthe Shore. Additionally, my service on the

boards of the United Way of the Midlandsand the Sisters of Charity Foundation of

South Carolina has been especially reward-ing. I have gained a new perspective on theroot causes of many problems in the Midlandsand our state, and I have experienced first-hand our community’s commitment to help-ing those in need.

My life changed when:My life changed when my wife, Lucy, and I

moved back to Columbia from Atlanta to workfor BlueCross BlueShield. BlueCross has beena wonderful place to work and grow person-ally and professionally, and I have seen count-less times what true commitment looks likefrom our company and our employees. Most

importantly, though, Columbia is where ourtwo sons were born, and where we have beenembraced by our family and friends. My fam-ily has been such a wonderful support systemhere, and we are so fortunate to be able toraise our family in the Midlands with suchfantastic people and opportunities. On a light-er note, my life definitely changed again inDecember when we learned that my wife waspregnant with twins, and it will change drasti-cally when they are born this summer!

What do you want people to believe

about you?I want people to believe that I am a person

of integrity, faith and character. I hope theysee me as a good husband, father, son, broth-er, friend, co-worker and community member.I want them to believe I am committed to my

job and to my community. I want them t obelieve those things not because I say them,but because I act accordingly.


The people. The people in Columbia are as

quality as you will find anywhere. They arebright, driven, and fun to be around, yet peo-ple in the Midlands remain humble. A closesecond best thing about the Midlands is how

easy everything is. Whether it is mundanethings like going to the grocery store or get-ting a bite to eat, or more exciting things likeGamecock sporting events, going to the parkor the Soda City market, all the many eventsand happenings are just so easy to experiencein the Midlands.

Why did you help start ‘Salute from the Shore’ and what does it do?

The founders of “Salute from the Shore”really wanted to demonstrate South Carolina’sappreciation for the freedom that our military

allows us to enjoy. We are all able to live ourlives every day and celebrate our freedom onthe Fourth of July because of the men and

women of the military. We decided that aflyover of the entire South Carolina coastcould be a profound focal point for the “Sa-lute” and for people to say thank you to themilitary for all the sacrifices they make tokeep us free and safe. The Salute serves as acelebration of our freedom and also as a cele-bration of the men and women who providethat freedom. In addition to the flyover andthe “Salute,” we share our message of appre-

ciation with as many members of the militaryas possible, especially those that have beenoverseas and those that have paid the ultimatesacrifice.

ANDY FOLSOM

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 35

OCCUPATION: Assistant vicepresident/deputy general counsel atBlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Favorite quote or saying:“Music is nothing separate from me …

It is me. You’d have to remove it surgical-ly.”– Ray Charles

Community or professionalhighlights:

Professionally, I was the first recipientof the Marjorie Stands Music Educatoraward from the South Carolina Sympho-ny League. In 2011, I received a Nation-al Board Certification in Music, whichallows me to teach in any state in thecountry without obtaining additional

certification. Only about 3 percent of teachers nationwide obtain this certifi-

cation. Additionally, I am frequentlysought after to serve as a guest choralclinician for the South Carolina MusicEducators Association Choral Clinics and

with various school districts around SouthCarolina. In the community, I have di-rected a number of musicals at WorkshopTheatre including Suessical, Urinetown,

High School Musical and High School Musical 2” and have musically directedDreamgirls at Trustus Theatre and Ain’t

Misbehavin at Workshop Theatre.I am also very involved with my

church, Trenholm Road United Metho-dist Church, and have had the opportuni-ty to spread music ministry at variouscommunity events in the Midlands andoverseas.

My life changed when:I joined the chorus program in high

school as a senior. My chorus teacher,Linda McMaster at South Florence HighSchool, inspired me to teach musicthrough singing and performing.

What do you want people tobelieve about you?

I want people to believe that I alwaysput others first and that what you see is

what you get. I am very honest withmyself and with others, and there is greatfreedom in that.

What do you like most about livingin the Midlands?I love the people, the opportunities that

music and arts continue to bring to ourregion, the culture, and the food.

You are involved in several choirs for teens and children. Why do youbelieve that work is important?

Children and teens need positive rolemodels in their lives, and I try to be onefor them. One way to inspire youth isthrough music. Music is a common lan-

guage shared by people of various walks of life. Inspiring through music gives me theopportunity to expose youth to a diversityof ideas, people, culture, influences, andstyles. This is very important to me, partic-ularly for many of the youth I teach be-cause they may not otherwise have thoseopportunities. In some ways, I feel that the

work I do makes their lives and experi-ences richer and well-rounded, goodqualities for them to build upon as theymature.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 39

OCCUPATION: Director of choral activities atDreher High School and music associate atTrenholm Road United Methodist Church

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NATHANIEL WALTER GRAHAM III


Since joiningBauknight Pietras& Stormer,P.A.in 2010,Kristenhas specializedin providingadvisoryand assuranceservices togeneraland specialtycontractors,distributors,andtax-exemptorganizations.Her clientshavecome to

knowher asa trustedfinancial advisor throughher rolesinmergerand acquisitiontransactions andassurance services.

Outsideof work,Kristen devotesher timeand talentto theColumbiaYMCA. Sheis theyoungestDowntown Board

President in thehistoryof theColumbia YMCAassociation.

CLASS OF2016

1517Gervais StreetColumbia, SC 29201803.771.8943

www.bpscpas.com

PLEASE JOIN US IN CONGRATULATING

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

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MARCO’S PIZZA &CAROLINA MATTRESS

JOE WALKER!

Congratulations

ONBEHALF

OF

Congratulations Kristen Jerome!

One Columbia for Arts and History public art, audience development, artist resources, comprehensive arts calendar

onecolumbiasc.com@onecolumbia | facebook.com/onecolumbia

Favorite quote or saying:Take on the challenges that you’re

not quite ready for; life is better livedoutside of your comfort zone.


Youngest sitting chair of theDowntown YMCA Board of Advisors;Leadership Columbia class of 2014;One Columbia for Arts and HistoricPreservation, treasurer

My life changed when: When I met my husband. He is truly

my better, taller, funnier half.

What do you want people to be-lieve about you?

That I’m trustworthy.

What do you like most aboutliving in the Midlands?

It feels like Columbia justemerged from those awkwardteenage years, and is finally cominginto her own. She still has thesmall-town Southern charms, where

you run into people you know atevery turn, but with big-city amen-ities like a spectacular restaurantscene, a funky arts community and

sports. I’ve been a witness to somuch progress here over the pastdecade, and it is exciting to be asmall part of that growth.

Why do you believe workingwith the YMCA is important?

The YMCA addresses some of the most pressing, basic needs of

our community. Our programstake on child hunger and schoolreadiness, build support systemsaround those with chronic dis-eases, and provide a place whereeveryone belongs. If you head outto Owens Field on a Saturday inthe fall, there are hundreds of kids playing soccer, and it’simpossible to tell who was able topay their registration fees. No

one is turned away based on aninability to pay – it is an evenplaying field, so to say. The Yfosters connections: friendships,coaches, mentors – and that’s areally powerful thing. We go waybeyond fitness in helping peoplereach their full potential andthrive.

KRISTEN JEROME

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AGE: 29

OCCUPATION: CPA

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Favorite quote or saying:To be truly happy, I believe that you must

“wrap yourself into a cause that will paydividends to others for a lifetime” (authorunknown). This quote speaks to the verynature of the work I do in the public schoolsystem as an educator. Sometimes we maynever know what impact we have had onanother person’s life, but it is gratifying toknow that I put my energy into a cause

much greater than myself.


As an assistant principal at DutchFork High School, I was blessed with

strong mentors and many unique oppor-tunities that contributed to my profession-

al growth. I was named the 2013 SouthernInterscholastic Press Association Adminis-

trator of the Year, and I am a recipient of theSuperintendent’s Award for OutstandingLeadership. I was also very proud to serve asthe 2015 South Carolina Secondary AssistantPrincipal of the Year and to have beennamed one of three finalists for the 2015National Assistant Principal of the Year title.And finally, I feel privileged to have beenselected as the principal of Saluda HighSchool in 2015; this role has been the mostrewarding of my career so far and one of

which I am the most proud .

My life changed when:My life changed when I was diag-

nosed with multiple sclerosis at age 33.In the spring of 2014, I had a suddenand dramatic decrease in vision, somuch so that I was hospitalized for ashort time and was out of work forseveral weeks. During this time, thedoctors could not tell me how much of my vision would return, or if my vision

would return at all. I was unable to domany simple things in life like put on

eyeliner, read a recipe on a browniebox, drive a car, or admire the freckleson my daughters’ noses.

For the first time in my life, I wasdependent on someone else for almosteverything. But what I worried aboutthe most was not being able to return to

work as a school administrator, or howeffective I could be without the abilityto see if I did return. I prayed relent-lessly, and when my vision finally re-turned to normal about six monthslater, I vowed to never take another day

of work for granted again. I am a differ-ent person today than I was a few yearsago because I understand now that eachday is a gift.


Being a high school principal requires me tomake difficult decisions — decisions that aresometimes unpopular and cause dissensionamong stakeholders. However, I would wantpeople to believe that I make every decision

with the best interest of students in mind. Theyare always my first priority — above myself andabove any adult.


As the mother of a 6-year-old and an 8-year-old, I am thankful for the many fun attractionsand events in the Midlands area, such as Ed-

Venture, Riverbanks Zoo, HiWire TrampolinePark, Saluda Shoals Park, the S.C. State Fair,events at Colonial Life Arena, ballet perform-ances at the Koger Center, the Columbia Mario-nette Theater, and the list goes on and on!

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnedsince becoming a high school principal?

I always imagined that being a high schoolprincipal would feel lonely; however, I havelearned that there are many exceptional peopleon my team who are willing to help. It’s notabout being the boss or having the final say; it’sabout creating the right conditions for others tobe successful.

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AGE: 35

OCCUPATION: Saluda High School principal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SARAH C. LONGSHORE

Favorite quote or saying:Luke 12:48(b)…”Everyone to whom much

was given, of him much shall be required…”

Community or professional highlights:I have been afforded the opportunity to

serve this community in many ways, and forthat, I am thankful. I have had many high-lights, all of which center around being ableto give back to others. I am forever indebtedto this community for allowing me such apleasure.

My life changed when:I was in combat for the first time. I had a

moment of clairvoyance where I understoodunequivocally that I was not in control. It

was this understand ing that led me to thegift of salvation. I knew that I had to be

wholly dependent on the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ if I was to have hope in this

world and, more important ly, for eternity. Iknew at that moment what total relianceand dependence upon God truly was.


That I am a humbled and broken sinner,living daily in the grace of a Lord and saviorthat does not fail nor make mistakes. That isall that matters.


Family. I have a uniquely close extendedfamily for this day and age. My familymeans the world to me; I wouldn’t trade theopportunity to be a part of it for anything.

What motivated you to give away2,000 pizzas to flood victimsin October?

To me, the answer here is obvious:There was a need and I had the means tosatisfy it. This action was never truly aquestion of “should we.” As soon as Iarrived on the ground and saw what we

were facing as a community, I shut downone of our stores for all retail operationsand told them to start preparing andcooking pizzas around the clock to bedelivered, as ready, to all affected areas.

The Marco’s team never wavered, nevercomplained about forfeiting tips, neverquestioned the intent. We are a team and

we serve together. I applaud those thatparticipated; it was humbling to be asmall part.

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AGE: 34

OCCUPATION: Self employed, Multi-BrandBusiness Development (Marco’s Pizza,Carolina Mattress and Furniture, DirectPrint and Marketing, and JP ContractSolutions Inc.)

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JOSEPH WALKER III

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

12/20

Favorite quote or saying:A river cuts through a rock not because of

its power, but its persistence.

Community or professional highlights:Selected as the founding member of the

S.C. Army National Guard’s first Trial De-fense Services, selected to serve as leaddefense counsel in the first General Court-

Martial believed to have been conductedsince the Civil War, as well as two highly

publicized Special Courts-Martial pro-ceedings conducted in 2014; selected to

serve with the South Carolina State Part-

nership Program with Colombia. Since2009, served as a positive male role-model

and mentor to Kassiem (a previous residentof the Epworth Children’s Home in Colum-bia), who has since graduated from DreherHigh School and has joined Job Corps tobetter himself; past vice-president and pastpresident of the Young Alumni Council of the My Carolina Alumni Association; serveson the board of the Columbia Kiwanis Club

My life changed when:I just knew my life changed when Lauren

agreed to marry me. Then I realized I was wrong, and I just knew it changed when wehad our first daughter, Peyton. But I candefinitely say that my life was turned onits head when we had our twin daughters,Harper and Emma, in November 2015.


To me, loyalty is not a word, it is alifestyle. I am unwaveringly devoted to myfamily, my friends, my clients, my profes-

sion, my university, and our nation.


I was born and raised right here inColumbia, so the Midlands has alwaysbeen my home. That said, I’ve travelledthe world and haven’t found a place thatoffers me what this place has: it’s wheremy favorite memories of growing up are,

where my family and friends are, and

where my Gamecocks play.

Why is your service in the NationalGuard important to you?

I believe that what I am doing now mat-ters both at home and abroad. Serving inthe SCARNG allows me to give back notonly to my nation, but also to my commu-nity and state. In particular, my involve-ment with the SCARNG’s State PartnershipProgram has taken me from Columbia,S.C., to the Republic of Colombia, SouthAmerica, where I am working with a team

of legal professionals seeking to build atransparent, effective military justice sys-tem that will stand as an example to theregion and promote trust, respect for therule of law on the South American conti-nent (and, hopefully, the world). I hope andpray that my service today means war willbe something that my children never haveto know other than through reading about itin history books.

NEAL DOUGLAS TRUSLOW

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AGE: 32

OCCUPATION: Litigator, Truslow & TruslowLaw Firm, Columbia, South Carolina; judgeadvocate, South Carolina Army NationalGuard.

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Favorite quote or saying:“Now to Him who is able to do immeasur-

ably more than all we ask or imagine, accord-ing to His power that is at work within us.”Ephesians 3:20

Community or professional highlights:I am serving as a board member on theState Workforce Investment Board. It has

been a true honor to be a small part of astatewide effort to increase the num-ber of employed South Carolinians.

The board, the Department of Employ-ment and Workforce, the Governor’s

Office, the Chamber of Commerce andmany other groups are coming together to

not only bring corporations to our state, butto train our citizens to fill these jobs.

My life changed when:My life changed the moment I noticed my

husband across the high school gymnasium andrealized how cute he looked in his wrestlingsweats. He has since blessed me with fifteen

years of love and three precious children.

My professional life changed when I metJudge C. Tolbert Goolsby Jr. of the SouthCarolina Court of Appeals. My last semesterof college, I took his Introduction to LegalMethod course. At the conclusion of thecourse, Judge Goolsby hired me to be hisadministrative assistant. Always generous

with his time, he taught me the basics of legalpractice. It was observing his love of the law,however, that changed my perspective on

what it means to be a lawyer. In watching him,I learned that being a lawyer is not a job, but acalling that requires dedication and constantstriving for improvement.


I want people to believe they can count onme, and when they need me, I will rise to theoccasion.


Hands down, it’s the people. The peoplehere are warm, kind, family-oriented, and

ready to lend a helping hand. Every day, I seemy Midlands neighbors volunteering theirtime to help others in big and small ways.2015 brought that to light in a big way. Whenthe Charleston tragedy struck, the Midlandsrallied around their Lowcountry neighbors

with love. When the flooding decimated parts

of our city, people rolled up their sleeves andgot to work. It is a wonderful place to grow upand I feel privileged to raise my family here.

What have you learned from yourpro bono work prosecuting criminaldomestic violence cases?

Anyone who sees criminal domestic vio-lence up close learns quickly that criminaldomestic violence has many victims and farreaching consequences. These situations ofteninvolve children. Even if the children are notbeing physically abused, witnessing the phys-

ical abuse of their parent creates lifelongtrauma that can derail their lives. There issuch a need for us, as a society, to draw a lineand tell offenders that we will no longer lookthe other way.

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AGE: 33

OCCUPATION: Attorney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MICHELLE PARSONS KELLEY


8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

13/20



One must seize an opportunity in the life-time the opportunity presents itself.

Community or professional highlights:Being named the rural developer of the

year, 2013. Honorary sp eaker at USC’s Char-leston Memorial, June 2015. Being nominatedto the USC Board of Visitors, president of theUSC Association of Lettermen, chair of theMonthly Meeting and being the vice-chair of the LeadSC Young Professionals Summit.

My life changed when:

We lost the state track meet by a point-and-a-half my sophomore year in high school.I had a blowup with my coach prior to theregional meet that resulted in my suspensionfor the rest of the year. I would have easilypicked up the 1½ points that my team neededto win state, but my short temper preventedme from helping my team win. That’s when Iknew I had to have an attitude adjustment;that’s when my life changed.


about you?I am a huge believer in the “pay it forward” concept. Anything I can do to plant aseed into someone that results in the in-dividual(s) bettering themselves, I try my bestto do so. I love to have a great time in every-thing that I do. I love to be challenged as wellas challenging others. Lastly, I try to imple-ment empathy as much as possible. Empathyreduces one’s emotional responses to ques-tionable actions and decisions of others.

What do you like most about living

in the Midlands?I love the connectivity and the diversity inthe Midlands. You can have a conversation

with a former governor on on e day and watcha great basketball game the next. I like thefact that I can get to other major cities in lessthan two hours. I also feel like if you reallytry, opportunities will present themselves forone to be in decision-making positions earlyin one’s career.

As a business recruiter for the

state of South Carolina, what do youbelieve are the Midlands' biggestassets?

The universities, rivers, Fort Jackson,connectivity to surrounding cities. I believethat the Midlands is a sleeping giant that isstarting to wake up. The Midlands is litera-lly the heart of the East Coast, locatedapproximately an 11 hours’ drive fromMiami and New York. The flagship uni-

versity (USC) calls Colu mbia home, whichis a tremendous asset to the Midlands. Thecollaboration between industry and the

public sector is extremely strong as well.The emerging Main Street and Vista areasare creating an emotional connection fornatives and visitors to the area. Threemajor interstates surround the Midlands,connecting the area to many of the majorEast Coast cities with a day’s drive. Wehave to continue to look for creative andtraditional ways to keep our talent in theMidlands.

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AGE: 28

OCCUPATION: Project manager, GlobalBusiness Development, S.C. Departmentof Commerce

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MAURICUS “MOE” BROWN

Favorite quote or saying:“The difference between something good

and something great is attention to detail.”- Charles Swindoll


The Family Shelter, board of directors;Town Theatre, board of directors and vice

president; South Carolina Bar Foundation,board of directors and ambassador; Lead-ership Columbia, class of 2013; First BaptistChurch of Columbia, deacon; 2013 editionof Super Lawyers, “South Carolina RisingStar” in Civil Litigation Defense; MidlandsLegal Elite, construction law, 2012-2015;Defense Research Institute, vice-chair;Young Lawyer Liaison to the DRI Construc-tion Law Committee; A/V Preeminent PeerReview Rated, Martindale Hubbell.

My life changed when:I have been fortunate enough to experi-

ence several life changing moments. As itmay be with many others, those momentsrevolve around the things we hold preciousin life: faith and family. Most importantly,my life changed when I became a Christian.

Next, my life changed when I met andmarried Sarah. There has been no one elseI would rather share life with. More recent-ly, things changed around our house withthe birth of our daughters, Emma in 2013and Molly in 2015. We traded dinner and amovie for diapers and a bottle. Hectic attimes? You bet. Worth it? Definitely.


I am going to treat you as I would want you to treat me. As a litigation attorney,my work is inherently adversarial. Howev-er, I make every effort to bring civility tomy practice. I refuse to go through lifebeing mean-spirited to opposing counsel orparties. I believe a lawyer can be a zealousadvocate for his or her client withoutmaking an enemy out of anyone who mayrepresent a different interest. Like youmay have in any profession, there are

some litigators that seem to go out of their way to pick a fight. But for the most part,lawyers in this state are sincere in theirefforts to keep civility in the legal profes-sion and I hope that doesn’t change anytime soon.


Fortunately, it’s difficult to pick just one; but Ithink I can sum up my love for this area with one

word: Home. While I grew up in Spartanburg, I’velived in the Midlands since I left for my freshman

year at USC. My entire adult life and all of itsdefining events are forever connected to theMidlands. It’s nice to travel and experience what

other areas of the state and country have to offer,but when I touch down at the Columbia airport, Iknow I’m home.

What have you learned from yourinvolvement with Family Shelterin Columbia?

One of the things I’ve learned from my involve-ment with Family Shelter is that there is no short-age of generous people in this community. FamilyShelter relies heavily on the support of individualsand companies to help keep the shelter running. Inother words, donations help to keep the lights on

and the residents fed. Over the years, I’ve seen thiscommunity be very generous in the giving of theirtime and talents. The cumulative effect of thisgenerosity is that Family Shelter is able to continueto help these families during what may be thelowest point of their lives.

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AGE: 29

OCCUPATION: Attorney, RogersTownsend

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JOSHUA A. BENNETT

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

14/20

©2016Colonial Life& Accident Insurance Company, Columbia,SC | ColonialLife insuranceproductsareunderwritten

byColonial Life&AccidentInsuranceCompany,for whichColonialLifeis themarketingbrand. 3-16 | NS-15047

Congratulations,Lauren!

Yourenergy, professionalismandcompassionareevidentineverythingyoudo.

We’re proud you’re included inTheState’s“20Under40.” Andwe’reeven prouder to have youon ourteam.

DISABILITY ! ACCIDENT ! LIFE ! DENTALCRITICAL ILLNESS ! HOSPITAL INDEMNITY

LaurenChess,NationalRecruitingManager

ColonialLife.com

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

Attorneys & Counselors at LawMeridian | 17th Floor1320 Main Street | Columbia, SC 29201www.nelsonmullins.com | 803.799.2000

Congratulations to our associate

Jarrett Cocoon his selection as a

Midland’s young leader in

The State’s ‘20 Under 40’

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AGE: 29

OCCUPATION: National recruitingprogram manager, Colonial Life

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“Be true to yourself, help others, make eachday your masterpiece, make friendship a fineart, drink deeply from good books, give thanksfor your blessings and pray for guidance everyday.” – John Wooden

Community or professional highlights:Young Leaders Society inaugural member

and current chairperson; communicationschair for the Midlands’ first three-day, freehealth care event for underinsured andunderserved residents, SCMission 2012;

mentor to young leaders through the Col-

lege of Journalism, Moore School of Businessand Colonial Life; Leadership Columbia classof 2014; inaugural board member for AMAColumbia Chapter; Time for Art PlanningCommittee, currently in third year of servicefor the first event of its kind in the Midlands,

which aims to p romote lo cal artists and init iatecommunity volunteering among young profes-sionals.

With Un ited Way, developed the first Stu-dent United Way Chapter and part of the firstfundraising campaign to exceed $10 million for

United Way of the Midlands; at ProvidenceHospital, worked on a team to develop anaward-winning advertising and marketingcampaign promoting heart health. At ColonialLife, promoted community involvement andother employee engagement/communicationsinitiatives for 1,100 employees at the ColonialLife headquarters in Columbia.

My life changed when:I took a chance and moved from my home

state of Virginia to South Carolina, where Ididn’t know a soul. It was the smartest risk I’veever taken.


I want people to know they can count on meto follow through on what I say I will do. I trulycare about everything I do and take pride incultivating relationships by connecting peopleto one another.


Watching the Gameco cks play.

You have been involved with several

community organizations. Why do youbelieve that work is important?After spending three years as an employee of

United Way of the Midlands, I witnessed first-hand the impact volunteers can have on anorganization and on our community. Interview-ing and hearing the stories of people who hadbeen helped by United Way’s volunteer-drivenprograms and certified partner agencies mademe a true believer in a collaborative approachto community improvement. I realized throughmany, many examples that if everyone does alittle bit, together we can do a lot. I’ve also

been very blessed in my life and feel it is ourduty to give back and support those who mayneed a helping hand. When I look back at mylife, my memories of volunteering are some of the most powerful and fulfilling. At the end of the day, the effect we’ve all had on other peo-ple is so much more impactful than any oneindividual achievement. I’ve been heavilyinvolved in volunteering for about 10 yearsnow, and I can honestly say, I’ve gotten muchmore out of it than I have put into it. Helpingothers inspires me and keeps me grounded.

LAUREN CHESS


8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

15/20



“Your future is somewhat connectedto your past.”


Hosting Camp LoveYourself-for girlsages 4-18; hosting The LoveYourself Community Baby Shower; conducting

workshops across the country inschools, colleges , universities, juvenile

justice systems; panelist for BET’s What’s at Stake; Black Pages top 40under 40; Who’s Who Among Young

African American Women; Best of D.C.; Washington D.C.’s WKYS 30 under 3 0;Howard University’s Fashion LawIntellectual Award; Founder of Love-Yourself; CEO of 27andCo

My life changed when:

When I started to use my platform tofulfill my purpose.


That I am nothing without God.


I embrace Southern hospitality.

Why do you believe it is important for your organization to promote

building self-esteem in youngwomen?Self-esteem is vital because it has an

impact on your life and choices. Yourself-value is the source of your mental,spiritual and emotional health. Self-esteem

is the idea that you have about yourself. It ishow valuable and important you believe youare. As women, when we are truly confident

we tend to make better decisions, we do notcompromise our values, we excel in allfacets of life, school, work and relation-ships. Women are forces of nature. We givelife, we nurture, we are helpmates to ourmale partners, and much more. With Love-Yourself, building the self-esteem of young

women, we are building their confidence inhopes they will become effective women,effective mothers, effective businesswomenand overall successful in life. Violence and

various criminal activity are symptoms of alack of love. LoveYourself teaches femalesthe importance of self and loving others.Love is more than just a warm feeling; it isthe ability to give and receive. We believe“when self love increases, magic happens.”

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AGE: 28

OCCUPATION: Professional model, fashion-lifestyleand beauty journalist, motivational speaker,character education consultant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BIANCA “BIANCACHARDEI” RICHARDSON

Favorite quote or saying:I keep an old NYC subway token on my keychain. I put it there years ago, probably backin college, because, at the time, I just thoughtI would use it next time I was in the city. Butat some point I noticed that it says “Good forOne Fare,” which I thought could be a kind of a reminder that we only get one token in life,one trip. So we should make it count.


I joined Nelson Mullins in 2012 after grad-

uating cum laude from the University of SouthCarolina School of Law. I attended law schoolafter 10 years as a business analyst for Stone-River (formerly Fiserv) and Computer Sci-ences Corporation. During law school, I wasselected to serve as an intern to S.C. SupremeCourt Chief Justice Jean Toal and served asmanaging editor of the S.C. Law Review. Aspart of my personal pro bono commitment, Ihave given some 600 hours of free legal workto the community in the last two years. Iparticipate in the firm’s Wills for Heroesprogram, which has provided thousands of

wills and estate planning to first responderssince its inception, as well as Street Law, anorganization that educates students about law,democracy, and human rights. I have taken onother pro bono cases, including abuse andneglect cases, child custody cases, prisoner

abuse cases and direct appeals of convictions.Through my work in pro bono cases, I havereunited mothers with their children, assistedan abused prisoner bring a civil action againsthis abusers, and won a direct appeal beforethe S.C. Court of Appeals.

I currently serve as secretary on the S.C.Philharmonic Board of Directors and am inmy third year of service to the board. I alsoserve on the board’s Executive Committee, as

well as the Artistic Committee, which act s as adiscussion forum with the music directorregarding the concert programming. I earned

a bachelor’s degree in music, magna cumlaude, from Mercyhurst College. Music hasbeen an important part of my life, and servingon the board of the S.C. Philharmonic hasallowed me to continue to keep music in mylife while helping to serve the community. Ibelieve that the arts, and especially live sym-phonic music, are tremendously important toa community.

My life changed when:My children were born. My wife, Brandi,

and I are blessed with two daughters, ages 4

and 7. Watching your kids grow up and shar-ing it with your spouse seems to me to be thebest part of life.


That I am dedicated and hard working. I

learned from my parents (who learned fromtheirs) the value of hard work. I never remem-ber them saying “Jarrett, you need to workhard.” If they did, I don’t remember. I justremember them working hard. Thomas Jef-ferson said, “I find that the harder I work, themore luck I seem to have.” I find the same.


This is an exciting time for Columbia. Thereis a tremendous amount of development andgrowth in the city. I have been living here for

most of my life now and this community hasbeen good to me. I’m active in the communitynot only out of a sense of gratitude to try togive back to the community that has given mesuch great opportunities, but also because it isexciting and rewarding to be a small part of the evolution of this community and city.

What have you learned from yourpro bono clients?

Each of my pro bono cases has been ex-tremely rewarding, both personally and pro-fessionally. On a professional level, I have

represented clients in several interesting andexciting cases that have proved to be valuablelegal experiences. This work is also personallyrewarding because I have been able to providea valuable service to clients who may not haveotherwise been able to afford legal repre-sentation.

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AGE: 39

OCCUPATION: Attorney, Nelson Mullins Riley& Scarborough

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JARRETT COCO

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

16/20

Favorite quote or saying:“Attitude is a little thing that makes a

big difference.” – Winston Churchill


Chairman, South Carolina BankersSchool Board; vice chair, PalmettoHealth Children’s Hospital Board; boardmember, South Carolina Bankers Associ-ation State Legislative Committee; boardmember, My Carolina Richland/Lexing-ton Chapter; finance committee mem-

ber, Shandon United Methodist Church;past chair, My Carolina Young AlumniCouncil

My life changed when:The day I met my wife. I feel like I

could be the poster child for “MarryingUp.” She’s not only an incredible motherand wife but she’s the hardest workingperson I know. She’s been extremely

instrumental in my career and is also mybiggest cheerleader.

What do you want people to believe about you?

I want people to know that, while I like

to laugh and have a good time, I take my

commitments very seriously. I feel that a

work-life balance is extremely important

and something I’m always trying to

achieve.

What do you like most about living

in the Midlands?There are too many things to list but

I’ll name a few. For one, I really enjoy

being so close to the Gamecocks. As a

USC alumni, its meaningful to be close

to campus and to be able to make it to a

lot of games. I also enjoy the dining and

entertainment options the Midlands has

to offer. I think it’s great that we have

such a vibrant city center and that FivePoints, The Vista, and Main Street are allbooming. But most of all, it’s a fantasticplace to raise children. My wife and I feel

very fortunate to be in such proximity toEdVenture, Riverbanks Zoo, Sesquicen-tennial State Park, Congaree NationalPark, and Richland County’s excellentlibraries. We can’t imagine living any-

where else!

How did you advance from aprofessional development

associate at NBSC to thecompany's market president in just 12 years?

You’d have to ask my boss that ques-tion! NBSC has been such a great placeto work and that’s a direct reflection onthe people that work here. I feel veryblessed to have such a wonderful team as

well as the supportive mentors along the way.

JOHN C. GRIGGS III

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AGE: 37

OCCUPATION: Columbia marketpresident, NBSC

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1.800.708.5687 | bankNBSC.com

John C. Griggs IIICommercial Banking Manager

Columbia, SC

John C. Griggs III is respected for his leadership and service, with our company and the many community

organizations he serves. We are proud to call John a valued team member and congratulate him for his

recognition as one of The State’s “20 under 40”. While we are pleased with the news of this prestigious

and well-deserved honor, we’re certainly not sur prised.

Banking products are provided by Synovus Bank, Member FDIC.Divisions of Synovus Bank operate under multiple trade names across the Southeast.

“Well-deserved” is

anunderstatement.

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

17/20


%&'"$(!+)(!*&'# THANK YOU FOR BEING GREAT LEADERS OF CHANGE IN THE MIDLANDS!

20 UNDER 40

TO OUR VOLUNTEERS & PARTNERS

LAUREN CHESS, COLONIALLIFE ANDYFOLSOM, BLUECROSS BLUESHIELDOFSOUTH CAROLINA

KATHERINESWARTZ HILTON, COLUMBIACOLLEGE ERIN JOHNSON, SCCAMPAIGNTO PREVENTTEEN PREGNANCY

JEREMYMARTIN, LRADAC NIKKI WILLIAMS, EDVENTURE CHILDREN’SMUSEUM

This space provided by:

DAILY UPDATES

GoColumbia.com


Stop complaining, start a revolution – I’venever been able to find who originally saidthis, but it’s always reminded me that I’llnever see meaningful change if all I do is talkabout it.

Community or professional highlights:Since 2010, I have been one of the lead

authors of two federal teen pregnancy preven-tion grant proposals. Professionally, theseproposals were the hardest things on whichI’ve ever worked. When they were both fund-ed, it was the ultimate reward for months of

stress and hard work. I also realized that myteam and I are responsible for making morethan an $11 million difference in this state.

While most of the citizens in the counties t hatare benefiting from this money will neverknow us, we impacted their lives and hopeful-ly their communities.

My life changed when:I had a child. While I was blown away by

my capacity to love another human being, I

became profoundly aware of the very personal

effect becoming a mother had on my everydayinteractions. I am more empathetic to both

young people and parents now. The twophrases that run through my head since Ibecame a parent are “they are doing the bestthey can with what they have” and “that’ssomebody’s baby.” Both remind to limit my

judgment of others and, whenever p ossible,help ease their journey through a sometimesdifficult life. I’d want someone to do the samefor me and my child.


about you?In the end, I want others to believe that I

really tried to make the world a better place …and know that I will always try to be on theright side of history. When I knew better, I didbetter.


I like that the Midlands is a place where youcan get to know people and feel like you are

part of a community. The greater Columbia

area is just the right size to not get lost in thecrowd. It’s great to be able to make so manypersonal connections throughout the commu-nity.

How has South Carolina benefited from the work of the S.C. Campaign toPrevent Teen Pregnancy?

The SC Campaign is so good at what we doand I’m lucky to have worked here since2004. We have made a name for ourselvesnationally, have incredible staff and representour state well. The teen birth rate has declined

61 percent since 1991 — that kind of success isalmost unheard of in public health! Mostpeople don’t know that we have also givenmillions of dollars to local communities overthe past few years. S.C. has benefited from ourcommitment to what works, our belief that,

with the prop er investment, S.C. communities will do w hat is best for their young people,and our understanding that it is only throughlasting partnerships that we can make a realdifference.

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AGE: 39

OCCUPATION: Chief community investmentofficer, S.C. Campaign to Prevent TeenPregnancy

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ERIN E. JOHNSON

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18/20


Favorite quote or saying:“Twenty years from now you will be moredisappointed by the things you didn’t do thanby the things you did do.” – Mark Twain

Professional highlights:I’ve had success and failure in my career.

Oddly enough, my failures are ones I cherishthe most and consider them to be the high-lights. These failures equipped me with theknowledge and drive to accomplish the goals Iset during this next phase in my career.

My life changed when:My life changed when my first child wasborn. When I saw him for the first time, Iknew the rest of my life was going to be differ-ent. My motivation and determination in lifehad changed. I quickly understood why myparents had worked so hard to instill impor-tant values in me. I was now tasked to instillthose same values in someone else.

What do you want people to believeabout you?I want people to know and understand

that my faith is incredibly important to me,not only as a beacon in business, but as afather and as a husband.


My hobby is Adventure Motorcycling, soliving in a region that offers an abundance of opportunities to experience the outdoorsfrom a motorcycle seat is fantastic. From

camping to riding trails, there is more thanenough adventure to be had in the Midlands.

You are involved in church, youth andcommunity activities. Why do youbelieve that involvement isimportant?

My relationships and involvement at mychurch are incredibly important to me. I

work hard and play hard, so having a churchhome like Chapin United Methodist Churchgives me the foundation and guidance toalways be a good father, husband, son,brother and business partner.

In terms of community involvement, I’vehad the privilege of coaching my son’s littleleague teams. Not only do I love and cherishthis time with him, I’ve been able to take anactive role in the athletic and leadershipdevelopment of his teammates. I also volun-teer with my collegiate fraternity. When Ithink about the moments in life that have hadsignificant positive effects on my career, Ican point to mentors of mine that took aninterest in me as a college student. Thesementors helped me develop skills to achievesuccess in business as well as shape me into aperson I can be proud of. I hope to be thatperson for many of the young, talented futureleaders that I have had the pleasure of beingaround through this involvement.

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AGE: 33

OCCUPATION: Managing director,South Carolina Angel Network

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CHARLIE BANKS

Favorite quote or saying:Be your (best) self. Everyone else is already

taken. This is my spin on Oscar Wilde’s fa-mous quote. It’s the advice I give most oftento young women at Columbia College — andit’s the advice I’d give to myself at 13, 23 andeven 33.

Community or professional highlights: Working in the nonprofit sector and in

higher education has its everyday perks — weget to drive home knowing we have made a

difference every day. I’m so proud of our workat Columbia College — we are truly changing

women’s ideas and aspirations about lead-ership, in a community and in a state thatneeds so many more women leaders. Our newline of programs for entrepreneurs, coupled

with the investment nod from The Janice andRobert McNair Foundation, has been a game-changer for Columbia College, for SouthCarolina and certainly for me. It was truly anhonor to serve with like-minded changeagents in Leadership Columbia and ColumbiaOpportunity Resource. Together, we built andfilled the talent bench for Columbia, changingthousands of hearts and minds about thequalities that make our community unique

and special. It really is fun to watch thoseprograms continue to thrive and serve youngprofessionals in innovative ways. I’m contin-uing to learn so much more about our commu-nity through involvement with Richland Li-brary and Women in Philanthropy.

My life changed when:I watched young women open up to each

other about their struggles, fears and chal-lenges. Just one woman sharing opens a widedoor for everyone else. I call it the Jell-OMoment: we realize we aren’t alone in our

journey and we come together to support eachother in a beautiful, mysterious and wiggly

way…like Jell-O.


I believe we all have a responsibility to giveback to this community that has given us somuch. My parents showed my sister and mesuch a great example in this way. Our neigh-borhoods, our churches and places of worship,our schools, our political arenas, our nonprofitorganizations — they all need our time, ourtalents and our treasure to move this commu-nity forward. There is really no better feeling

than to give.


Columbia has changed so much from mychildhood and has changed 100 percent againsince I moved back here in 2006 — all for thebetter. Our friendly, small town vibe that

welcomes all kinds o f people with open armsis what makes us unique. There are so manygrassroots-driven initiatives in Columbia —the response to the floods last year is one of the best examples of how we come together asa community. More often than not, peoplesmile and say “hello” on the sidewalk — I lovethat! The downtown and riverfronts are bus-tling with places to go and things to do. Let’snot forget we can flaunt our flip-flops at leastsix months out of the year! Columbia hasbeen, and always will be, home.

You are involved in a lot of communityorganizations. Why is that important?

I believe it’s important to find causes you’repassionate about and give them your all —stretching yourself as much as you can. Yourcommunity, your family, your career and you

will be better for it.

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AGE: 38

OCCUPATION: Director, Center forLeadership, and co-director, McNairCenter for Entrepreneurism at ColumbiaCollege

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KATHERINE SWARTZ HILTON

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

19/20


2004Ron Anderson

Ben D. Arnold

Stephen Benjamin

Tammy Byars

Robert Dozier Jr.

Lynwood Duke

Deepal S. EliatambySam Erwin

Robert R. Hill Jr.

Fred Johnson

Jeff Lewis

Dalhi N. Myers

Zoe Sanders Nettles

Pennie Peagler

Joseph Rich

J. Daniel Rivers

Keely Saye

John J. Singerling III

Robert Michael “Mike” Sisk

Tori Taggart-Anderson

2005Todd Avant

Peter M. Bristow

Lorri-Ann Carter

Pamela Ahearn Chalfant

J. Michelle Childs

Russ Cobb

Tameika Isaac DevineSusan M. Douglas

Mark Edward Fryer

Edwin Gerace Jr.

Sandor Lebron Gordon

Stacey J. Jewett

Jeanne McIntosh-Lirola

Bruce Miller

Eva L. Nance

William G. Newsome III

Kate Jewett Paolino

Elizabeth V. Smith

Darrin T. Thomas

Jason Williamson

2006Mary Pat Baldauf

Tara Bianco

Cynthia Blair

Amy Coquillard

Robert Fletcher

Marc Gardner

Lori HarmonJ. Christian Hendricks

Lewis Hughes

Jay Lasater

Tony Lawton

Paul Mashburn

Sean McNally

Karen Mock

Margaret Nevill

Elizabeth Nkuo

Daniel Rickenmann

Tracy Russell

Beth Bernstein Sanders

Jim O. Stuckey II

2007DeAndrea Gist Benjamin

Jason Caskey

Chris Christiansen

Jamie Devine

Frank Ferez

Alejandro Garcia

Anthony HayesEric Jenkins

Damon Carlos Jeter

Nathan Leaphart

Chris Leevy Johnson

Stephanie Rice Jones

Heather Mitchell

Pat Patterson

Jonathan Patton

Jennifer Wile Rubin

Ashley Sherry

Robin Waites

Daniel Wallick

Susan Wooldridge Yeatts

2008Jennifer Baker

Mia Butler

Bianca Crawford

Jay Davis

Teresa Wilson Florence

William Garland Jr.

Wesley GraybillBruce Harper

Tina Herbert

Stan Hickson

Lisa Ingram

Padgett Lewis

Heather Liafsha

Craig Nix

Michael Oana

Laura Robinson

Lance Roper

Murrell Smith

Cecil Thornton Jr.

Tripp Whitener

2009Cory Adams

Forrest Alton

Melissa Sprouse Browne

Ken Carey

Katie Cauthen

Dionne Fleshman

Charity GarrisRozalynn Goodwin

Jeffrey Graham

Christopher Koon

Kevin Lindler

Clay Owens

Tally Parham

Barbara Koosa Ryan

Shannon Scruggs

Michael Seezen

William Smith

Ann Marie Stieritz

Boyd Summers

Thad Westbrook

2010Richard C. Barr

Ernie Boughman III

Latrice Love Cooper

Michael E. Edens

Mandi EngramTanya A. Gee

Melissa Ann Smith Gentry

Mikee Johnson

Charles Kahn

Laura A. Kiser

Gretchen Lambert

Cory E. Manning

Brandi L. Parrish

Matthew T. Richardson

David A. Ross

Tony Tam

E. Craig Waites Jr.

Genevieve N. Waller

Deitra Mechelle Watson

Tigerron Asim Wells

2011Emily Brady

Emily Brannen

Tushar Chikhliker

Daniel D’Alberto

Kendall DavisGavin Dean

Brian Duncan

Robert Ellis III

Marty Fort

Ford Graham

Gregory Hilton

Candace Jackson

Stuart Lee

Eric McClam

Sherry Norris

Schrendria Robinson

Asheley Scott

Antjuan Seawright

Bakari Sellers

Rico Snell

2012Charles L. Appleby IV

Aaron R.E. Bishop

Dana Anne Bruce

Christopher Craft

Tina CundariEmma Thomas Dean

Michaela K. Gonzales

Danielle Holley-Walker

Matt Hudson

Ashley Hunter

Moryah Jackson

Vida A. Jennings

Steven Johnson

Karen L. Luchka

James A. Manning

Listervelt Bakari Middleton

Ben Rex

Julie Smithwick-Leone

Mary Lynch Wagnon

Travis Wheeler

2013Haley Bowers

Holt Chetwood

Wesely Donehue

Sidney Evering

Kevin FelderKatie Fox

John Frick

Jenny Isgett

Amanda Loveday

Heidi Johnson

Sam Johnson

Terree Korpita

Jay Schwedler

J.P. Scurry

Monica Scott

Keith Shah

Nick Stomski

Allison Waymyers

Alan Wilson

Vida Yousefia

2014Jenniter Stone Ashburn

Jody A. Bedenbaugh

Agata Chydzinski

Lucas C. Clamp

Amy ClaytonDavid Clayton

Joseph A. Cosci Jr.

Angela P. English

R. Andrew Folks

Aaron Gilchrist

Kiosha Gregg

Kaela Harmon

Rebecca Haynes

John Johnston

Luke E. McCary

Thomas McElveen

Jill Hammond Menhart

Tommy Preston Jr.

Bob Ruff

Ryan Whittaker

2015Jill M. Armbruster

Elisabeth Bischofberger

Shannon Furr Bobertz

Murray Coleman

Melissa L. ConstanteRyal F. Curtis

Steven C. Eigenbrot

Lisa M. Hostetler

April Glenn James

Emily M. Johnson

Will Johnson

Craig Q. King

Chakisse Newton

Patrick T. Palmer

Heather R. Price

Jamie Scott

Blake G. Taylor

Lauren Truslow

Ben Wilson

Michael D. Wright

HONORING THE STATE’S PREVIOUS 12 CLASSES

OF MIDLANDS’ 20 UNDER 40 PROFESSIONALS

8/19/2019 20 Under 40, 2016

20/20


YOU’RE INVITED!

TO THE GRAND UNVEILING OF

COLUMBIA’S NEWEST CONCEPT

IN MEN’S FASHION.

20 Under 40, 2016

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Transcript of 20 Under 40, 2016