Gloria Duryea, Stewardship Officer and resident-Beaufort-staff-member, shares her experience with Leadership Salkehatchie
After multiple day-long educational sessions and one whirlwind day trip to Washington, D.C., I now have a new appreciation and insight into my region of the state as well as eight new friends. We were all lucky to be chosen as participants in this year’s class of Leadership Salkehatchie – a program generously sponsored by SouthernCarolina Alliance and USC Salkehatchie.
The program seeks to identify and develop motivated young leaders who live and/or work in Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. As a resident of Beaufort whose work is focused on outreach in the “Southern Lowcountry” of CCF’s service area (Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties), this program was a perfect complement to my role as Stewardship Officer.
This year’s cohort represents a variety of professions including manufacturing, education, journalism, public service, and nonprofit work. Leadership Salkehatchie’s nine-month program addresses topics including fundamental leadership skills, economic development, diversity, judicial system and legislative advocacy.
Each year, the program culminates with a day trip to our nation’s capital. On April 20th, we caught the 7:00 a.m. flight to Washington, D.C. and had the opportunity to meet and visit with our entire legislative delegation and many members of their staff. Senator Tim Scott shared his personal story of humble beginnings, Senator Lindsay Graham continues to work hard to bring economic growth to our area, Congressman James Clyburn works daily to advocate for resources and people, Congressman Joe Wilson works hard to stay in touch with his constituents and their needs (and is a fast walker!) and Congressman Mark Sanford escorted us to the House floor to witness a vote on a bill. Over fourteen hours later, we returned home to South Carolina tired, but appreciative of our area’s supporters in Washington, D.C.
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience as part of Leadership Salkehatchie. The knowledge and network gained has already helped me in my daily work with Coastal Community Foundation. I have a deeper understanding of each of the counties – their unique struggles and their similarities. We are now better able to assist nonprofits, encourage collaboration, and have a stronger presence in our entire service area.
To learn more about Leadership Salkehatchie or to nominate someone for the program, please contact Terri Boone at booneter@mailbox.sc.edu or 803-584-3446.
Contact Gloria Duryea at gloria@coastalcommunityfoundation.org or 843-379-3400.
