Charleston Daily Seeking all the beauty that is Charleston, South Carolina

By Collyn Taylor, collyntaylor@sc.edu

Five University of South Carolina students have been awarded the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship, marking the 34th consecutive year the university has at least one Goldwater Scholar.

This year’s winners are Khufu Holly Jr., Hannah Keen, Ria Kothari, Ansley Martin and Reagan Stanton. The five Goldwater Scholars this year set a university record. USC previously had four Goldwater Scholars in 2004 and 2023.

“These Goldwater Scholars have done amazing things,” says Melissa Moss, who serves as the chair for USC’s Goldwater committee. “It was a pleasure to work with each of them during the application process, and now I am excited to see where they take their future research careers.”

Four students are South Carolina Honors College students; one is a Capstone Scholar. Since the award was established in 1986 to honor U.S. Sen. Barry Goldwater, the University of South Carolina has had 77 total scholars.

More than 400 higher education institutions nominate students each academic year for the $7,500 awards, which encourage undergraduate students to pursue research careers in natural sciences, engineering and mathematics. A total of 452 scholarships were awarded this year from the 1,485 nominees by 482 institutions.

Khufu Holly Jr.

Junior from Florence, South Carolina, majoring in biomedical engineering with a minor in medical humanities and culture.

Holly is a biomedical engineering major in the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing with a minor in medical humanities and culture. The Honors College student worked in a Cleveland Clinic lab in summer 2025 and currently works in the Webb lab at USC studying blood vessel injuries resulting from hypertension.

They serve as the founder and editor-in-chief of the Caroliniana Undergraduate Research Journal.

“I learned how to reflect on my research experiences and leverage my experience outside the classroom to talk about my story and how these have influenced my career trajectory,” Holly says about the application process.

Holly plans to pursue a career as a physician-scientist specializing in pediatric infectious diseases while researching treatments for bacterial pathogens and how they interact with human immune systems.

Hannah Keen

Junior from Spartanburg, South Carolina, majoring in chemistry with an environmental and sustainable engineering minor.

A chemistry major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences with a minor in environmental and sustainable engineering, Keen currently works in Susan Richardson’s lab looking at emerging contaminants in water.

She also researches toxicology to examine disinfection by products and is a student in the Honors College.

“Winning Goldwater will give me a community of scholars whom I can connect with and learn about their experiences with graduate school, research, becoming a professor and more,” says Keen, who is also a Stamps Scholar.

She plans to earn a doctorate in environmental chemistry and lead a research group studying harmful toxins in the environment with a focus on identification, toxicity and mitigation.

Ria Kothari

Junior from Kingsport, Tennessee, majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology with a psychology minor.

Kothari is a biochemistry and molecular biology major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences with a psychology minor. She’s also an Honors College student and McNair Scholar.

She is currently working with Chuanbing Tang’s lab researching antimicrobial peptide polymers. She completed a summer internship with the National Institutes of Health studying small-molecule therapeutics for kidney disease.

Kothari looks forward to how the Goldwater Scholarship will help her pursue a research career in STEM and connect with scientists throughout the country. 

“I learned more about what my career goals are and the kind of research I am interested in pursuing,” she says. “If applicants want to expand their abilities as a researcher, they need to create opportunities for them to do so instead of waiting for them to come.”

Ansley Martin

Junior from Greenville, South Carolina, majoring in neuroscience with a medical humanities and culture minor.

A neuroscience major in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences and a medical humanities and culture minor, Martin began conducting neuroimaging research the summer after graduating high school.

That led to her current research with Souvik Sen and the Aging Brain Cohort. Martin also helped create the USC Brain Health’s Vibrant Minds program, an expressive arts initiative providing support to older adults with neurological conditions.

“This award will allow me to gain invaluable experience performing research methods that are at the forefront of their field,” says Martin, who serves as the president of the Phi Delta Epsilon medical fraternity. “It will give me the opportunity to conduct truly innovative, multi-modal, translation research.” 

Also a Capstone Scholar, Martin wants to pursue a doctorate in neurology to advance biological understanding and translate her research to personalized treatments.

Reagan Stanton

Junior from Minneola, Florida, majoring in physics with an astronomy minor.

Stanton is a physics major with an astronomy minor in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. A student in the South Carolina Honors College, she is currently involved in two research projects: studying magnetic fields of dwarf galaxies and designing an instrument to measure circular polarization of the cosmos.

Stanton, who is also treasurer of the Society of Physics Students Club, notes that the scholarship will provide her with a network of connections for her future career.

Her research has been supported by both Magellan and South Carolina Honors College research grants. She’s also presented her research at a meeting of the South Carolina Astronomers. She plans to become a research astrophysicist studying extragalactic magnetism. 

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Students applying for national fellowships and scholarships work closely with top research faculty members. This year’s Goldwater faculty committee was chaired by Melissa Moss (engineering and computing). Committee members were Dave Barbeau (earth, ocean and environment) Mark Uline, (engineering and computing), Yanwen Wu (physics and astronomy) Joshua Cooper (mathematics) Fabienne Poulain (biological sciences) and Aaron Vannucci (chemistry and biochemistry).

Students interested in applying for the Goldwater or other national fellowships should contact National Fellowships and Scholar Programs.

Source: University of South Carolina

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By Delaney Freistuhler, freistud@mailbox.sc.edu

FirstGen Forward has named the University of South Carolina one of its newest FirstGen Forward Network Champions, an exclusive group of institutions recognized as national leaders in advancing first-generation student success. 

The network includes 470 colleges and universities across 47 states and the District of Columbia. There are three designations an institution can achieve — member, leader and champion — with only 32 institutions recognized at the champion level.  

USC is one of just three SEC schools to earn the champion designation, joining Mississippi State and Kentucky. Only two other schools in the state, Presbyterian and Furman, have the champion designation as well.  

“We are honored to be recognized as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion,” said Mary Anne Fitzpatrick, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “This distinction reflects our strong commitment to supporting first-generation students and building pathways that help them succeed from enrollment through graduation.” 

Through initiatives led by the First-Generation Center and campus partners, USC provides programs and resources that help foster academic achievement, personal growth and a sense of belonging.   

The university is dedicated to ensuring first-generation students at USC, which make up over 20 percent of the student population, have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.  

USC opened its first generation center last year and provides resources for first-generation students to match with mentors at the university. There are also resources for faculty and staff to access to help them support first-generation students in Columbia.  

To learn more about first-generation efforts at the University of South Carolina, visit the Graduation and Retention Network website.

Source: University of South Carolina

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CHARLESTON, SC – Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF) is proud to announce the 2026 Charter Day award winners, recognizing outstanding achievements in the protection, restoration, and interpretation of Charleston’s historic built environment. This year’s honorees represent a diverse range of projects, from meticulous residential rehabilitations and institutional restorations to cultural landscape preservation and innovative public advocacy. Historic Charleston Foundation recognizes their excellence in preservation, offering not just technical expertise in maintaining historic sites and cultural landscapes, but also their dedication, resources, and a strong commitment to the city’s lasting legacy. 

On Thursday, April 30th, we will celebrate winners of the following awards at the annual Charter Day awards ceremony and reception: The Whitelaw Founders Award, the Joseph H. Peter McGee Advocacy Award, and the Stoney Craftsmanship Awards. The event is held at the historic First Baptist Church at 61 Church Street at 6 pm, immediately followed by a reception at the Nathaniel Russell House Museum, 51 Meeting Street. This program is free and open to the public; space is limited and registration is required on HCF’s website, HistoricCharleston.org. 

The Whitelaw Founders Award recognizes individuals, groups, or government entities that actively engage in the long-term preservation of important buildings and places. 

The Bennett Rice Mill, SC Ports Authority (Landmark Preservation; GEL Engineering) | The Bennett Rice Mill at Union Pier is being honored for its remarkable stabilization and restoration of a fragile yet powerful remnant of Charleston’s industrial past. Dating to the mid-19th century, the surviving masonry wall stands as a rare physical link to the city’s once-dominant rice economy. Through a $1.6 million investment, the South Carolina Ports Authority partnered with Landmark Preservation and GEL Engineering to carefully assess, stabilize, and restore the deteriorating structure. Over more than a year of work, the team employed highly specialized preservation techniques to ensure the wall’s structural integrity while maintaining its historic character. As redevelopment of Union Pier continues, this project ensures that Charleston’s layered history remains visible—bridging past and future through thoughtful, place-sensitive preservation. 

89 Smith Street (Mark Maresca, Owner) | The rehabilitation of 89 Smith Street reflects a deep respect for architectural history and craftsmanship. Purchased in 2022 by architect Mark Maresca, the c.1840 Bennett-Jones House underwent a careful two-year restoration that prioritized original materials and design intent. Built in the Greek Revival style by Jefferson Bennett and later owned by renowned architect Edward C. Jones, the home features a striking Doric portico and distinctive polygonal bay windows blending Gothic, Roman, and Egyptian influences. Maresca’s work focused on restoring historic finishes while removing non-historic alterations, allowing the house’s architectural narrative to reemerge. The result is a thoughtful and academically grounded rehabilitation that honors both the building’s origins and its evolution, ensuring its preservation as a significant example of Charleston’s antebellum residential design. 

26 South Battery (Kevin Story & Stephanie Finch, Owners) | The restoration of 26 South Battery, the Col. John Ashe House, is a masterclass in patient, detail-driven preservation. Acquired in 2021, this c. 1828 Italianate residence underwent a multi-year, full-scale rehabilitation that balanced historical accuracy with the needs of a modern and growing family (two children were born during the course of the project). The undertaking, working with Richard Marks Restorations and Thomas & Denzinger Architects, entailed extensive plaster and stucco repair, piazza restoration, and the installation of a standing seam copper roof. A defining achievement was the painstaking return of the home’s exterior to its original limewash finish, complete with historically accurate color analysis and hand-restored detailing. Inside, original moldings, mantels, and decorative elements were carefully preserved or recreated using traditional techniques. Even landscape features were designed to echo the home’s geometry. The result is a cohesive and deeply respectful restoration that celebrates the building’s craftsmanship while ensuring its continued vitality as a lived-in historic home. 

60 Tradd Street (Dr. John Kerrison, Owner) | The project at 60 Tradd Street represents the power of research-driven restoration and multi-generational stewardship. Built circa 1732 and held within the same family since 1967, the home underwent a transformative effort to reconstruct its long-missing piazza—an architectural feature removed in the mid-20th century. Upon acquiring the property, Dr. John Kerrison, who grew up in the home, collaborated with architect Bill Huey and a team of engineers and builders to investigate the piazza’s original form using historic maps, photographs, and physical evidence embedded within the structure. The reconstruction required both technical precision and historical sensitivity, resulting in a structurally sound and visually authentic addition that reintegrates the house into its historic context. This project reflects a profound commitment not only to architectural integrity, but also to generational stewardship and Charleston’s evolving yet continuous streetscape. 

60 Meeting Street (Jon Mazzoli, Owner) | The rehabilitation of 60 Meeting Street highlights the successful integration of traditional building arts with advanced preservation techniques. Originally constructed in 1771 and later transformed in 1893 into a high-Victorian residence, the building presented a complex restoration challenge. Mazzoli worked with Meadors Inc. on a comprehensive interior and exterior rehabilitation, including the restoration of its distinctive mansard roof and turret using custom-fabricated metal tiles. Additional work included window restoration, stucco repair, and the modernization of building systems, all while correcting prior alterations that had compromised the structure’s integrity. The project stands as a model for how historic properties can be sensitively adapted while preserving the craftsmanship and character that define them. 

Mosquito Beach (Bill “Cubby” Wilder) | The Pine Tree Hotel and Skeeta Lounge at Mosquito Beach represents a vital investment in cultural preservation and storytelling. Supported by a $1.25 million grant from the Mellon Foundation and facilitated by Historic Charleston Foundation, the project seeks to restore these landmark structures to active use while honoring their significance as centers of African American leisure during the Jim Crow era. Extensive rehabilitation work, under the expert leadership of Cubby Wilder, Larry Graves, and Kyle Taylor, is nearing completion, alongside plans to revive the site as a destination that celebrates Gullah Geechee culture, foodways, and history. By pairing physical restoration with interpretive programming and operational support, this effort ensures that Mosquito Beach’s legacy is not only preserved, but also meaningfully shared with future generations. 

St. Philip’s Church | St. Philip’s Church is being recognized for its ambitious and comprehensive “Shine the Light” preservation campaign. Beginning in 2020, the congregation worked with Ryan Magee and Bill Huey + Associates to undertake a wide-ranging initiative to restore the structural and aesthetic integrity of its historic campus, including the Sanctuary, cemetery gates, and primary entrances. As work progressed, the scope expanded to include intricate interior restoration, such as the repair of cast plaster ornamentation and the installation of discreet lighting to highlight architectural details. Entirely funded by the congregation, the campaign reflects a profound commitment to stewardship. The project not only preserves one of Charleston’s most iconic landmarks, but also reinforces its role as a living 

institution, welcoming thousands of visitors each year while continuing to serve its active faith community. According to Rector Jeff Miller, the congregation regards “these magnificent buildings as Gospel assets. The iconic steeple is a lighthouse to shine the light of Christ.” 

The Joseph H. (Peter) McGee Advocacy Award recognizes excellence in advocacy, community preservation and planning. 

Bill Olson | Bill Olson, a.k.a. “Charleston’s Civic Storyteller” wins this year’s Joseph McGee Advocacy Award for his community outreach, generating broad interest and engagement for preservation advocacy through digital storytelling. A local real estate professional and busy dad, Olson has built a substantial following by translating complex development, zoning, and preservation issues into accessible, fact-based video content. Via his Instagram presence @The.Bill.Olson and via YouTube, he creates relatable, sharable content, prioritizing clarity over commentary and empowering residents to engage thoughtfully with issues shaping their city. With tens of thousands of followers and over a thousand videos produced, his work has amplified public awareness around key preservation topics, from rezoning debates to demolition concerns. By encouraging informed participation and highlighting the importance of civic engagement, Olson has expanded the reach of preservation advocacy beyond traditional audiences, demonstrating the vital role of communication in shaping Charleston’s future. 

The Stoney Craftsmanship Award recognizes craftspeople who have kept alive Charleston’s tradition of excellence in the building trades. 

Jeff Emig | Jeff Emig is recognized for his exceptional craftsmanship in masonry, stucco, plaster, and tile, skills essential to the preservation of Charleston’s historic fabric. Having honed his expertise through years of work on significant projects, including the restoration of the Sottile Theatre, Emig has built a reputation for precision and dedication to traditional methods. His work is widely respected by peers and collaborators, who value his ability to execute complex restoration tasks with both technical skill and artistic sensitivity. By maintaining and advancing these specialized trades, Emig plays a critical role in ensuring that historic buildings are not only preserved but authentically restored using the materials and techniques that define their character. 

Picquet Roofing | Picquet Roofing will receive the Stoney Award for their long-standing commitment to excellence in traditional roofing systems. Established in 1929, this third-generation, family-owned company is the oldest roofing firm in Charleston, carrying on a legacy rooted in craftsmanship and reliability. Specializing in materials such as copper, slate, tile, and metal, Piquet Roofing has contributed to the preservation of countless historic structures across the region. Their work reflects a deep understanding of both historic techniques and modern performance standards. By sustaining and elevating a highly specialized trade, the company continues to play an indispensable role in protecting Charleston’s architectural heritage. 

About Historic Charleston Foundation: Established in 1947, Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF) is a preservation advocacy organization whose mission is to advocate for a future for Charleston that honors and protects its people, places, culture, and community. In its 79th year, the Foundation is known for its preservation advocacy programs including protective covenants and easements; education and outreach; and it is the first organization in the country to establish a revolving fund to acquire and preserve historic buildings, a model now replicated in historic communities across the nation. HCF is also the proud steward of two historic house museums: the Nathaniel Russell House, c. 1808 and the Aiken-Rhett House, c. 1820., both open to the public for tours daily. HistoricCharleston.org 

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Woman owner leads team providing end-to-end sign and branding solutions for businesses 

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (Apr. 27, 2026) —Signarama® , the world’s largest sign and graphics franchise, has opened a new location at 7448 Stafford Road, Suite 604 in Northwoods Business Park.The shop is locally owned byentrepreneur Lisa Wright, who looks forward to helping local businesses stand out with attention-getting marketing materials. 

As part of the global Signarama network, the North Charleston location provides a full range of custom sign and graphics services for businesses, organizations, and commercial clients. Other offerings include illuminated signs, window decals, banners, murals, real estate signs, and visual branding solutions designed to help companies increase visibility and strengthen brand recognition. 

“I’m excited about meeting people in the community and helping local businesses get to the next level,” said Wright, a former dental management consultant. “At Signarama, we are more than just sign makers. When we work with our clients, we consider ourselves a team who takes the time to learn their business goals and how we can help to achieve them.” 

Wright worked in the dental field for 23 years, working her way up the ranks from an assistant, office manager and most recently as a management consultant. A native of Port Robinson, Ontario, and the past four years living in Mexico, Wright now resides with her husband and two children in the Historical District of Summerville. In her spare time, Wright enjoys cooking and traveling and is a passionate practitioner of mixed martial arts.   

The 2,500-square-foot North Charleston facility is equipped with modern sign-making technology and offers personalized, one-on-one consultations to ensure each project aligns with the client’s business goals, location requirements, and target audience.  

Signarama in North Charleston is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 843-604-0220, visit the showroom, or go to Signarama. 

About Signarama

Signarama®, the world’s leading sign franchise, offers branding and messaging solutions in addition to comprehensive sign and graphic services to consumers and commercial customers – from business signs, vehicle wraps, and digital signs, to advertising and marketing services. Signarama is a member of the United Franchise Group™ family of affiliated brands and consultants. As part of a $49-billion-plus worldwide sign market, Signarama has been at the forefront of the sign industry for four decades. For more information, visit www.signarama.com. For more information on the Signarama franchise opportunity, visit www.signaramafranchise.com.  

About United Franchise Group  

Led by Chairman and CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group™ (UFG) is a globally recognized leader in franchising, home to an award-winning family of brands and franchise consulting services. With over 1,600 franchises across more than 60 countries, UFG empowers entrepreneurs through proven franchise systems, multi-unit growth opportunities, and industry-leading support. Its portfolio includes iconic brands like Signarama®, Fully Promoted®, Black Optix Tint®, Transworld Business Advisors®, Exit Factor®, Accurate Franchising™, Franchise Real Estate™, and thriving food concepts under Big Flavor Brands™, such as The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill® and Graze Craze®. With 40 years of franchising experience, UFG and its expert consultants have helped develop over 350 successful franchise brands, supporting thousands of franchisees worldwide. From B2B services to fast-casual dining, UFG offers scalable, high-demand business opportunities backed by comprehensive training, marketing, and operations support. Entrepreneurs choose UFG to lead in their local markets and grow with a trusted network that’s driving the future of franchising. With a commitment to rapid growth, UFG continues to expand its global footprint, helping franchise owners thrive in local markets worldwide.  

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US sugar candy category leader to invest $675 million, projected to create 1,000 new jobs over 10 years

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Ferrara Candy Company (Ferrara), a leading sugar confectioner in the United States, Brazil and Europe, today announced plans to establish its first South Carolina operation in Orangeburg County. The company’s $675 million investment is projected to create 1,000 manufacturing and corporate jobs over the next 10 years. 

Headquartered in Chicago for 118 years, Ferrara operates a network of more than 30 facilities worldwide and employs more than 9,400 people. Its products are sold in over 60 countries and span a portfolio of more than 40 iconic brands including NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, Trolli®, Brach’s®, Jelly Belly® in the U.S., Terry’s and Carambar in Europe, and Dori in Brazil. Ferrara is a privately held Ferrero-affiliated company.

Ferrara’s new operation will be located at Highway 21 and Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, where the company plans to construct a 750,000-square-foot manufacturing facility including processing and packaging, a warehouse for raw and pack materials, and an administrative office. The investment will support Ferrara’s high level of consumer demand and strengthen its position as a leader in sugar confections.

The first production lines in the new facility are expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2029. Individuals interested in joining the Ferrara team should visit readySC’s recruitment website, https://ferrara.readyscjobs.com/. Companies interested in becoming a supplier or vendor for Ferrara should complete the online interest form.

After the Joint Bond Review Committee recommended approval, the State Fiscal Accountability Authority authorized the issuance of General Obligation State Economic Development Bonds in a principal amount not exceeding $85 million to offset the cost of acquiring the site, site improvements and related infrastructure.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development also approved job development credits related to the project.

QUOTES

“Our new Orangeburg facility represents a major step forward in transforming Ferrara’s manufacturing scale and capability, positioning the company for long-term global leadership. We are excited about the opportunity to inspire sweetness in the Palmetto State, and we are grateful to the leadership of Governor McMaster, Secretary Lightsey and their teams, and the Orangeburg County officials, in their partnership and effort to bring us to South Carolina.” -Ferrara Chief Executive Officer Marco Capurso

“Today marks a transformative moment for Orangeburg County and all of South Carolina. Ferrara Candy Company’s $675 million investment in the Midlands is a powerful vote of confidence in our state that will bring many new opportunities for our people. We are proud Ferrara has chosen South Carolina as a place to build their future and look forward to the company’s continued success here.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are excited to welcome Ferrara Candy Company to the Palmetto State. This milestone investment in Orangeburg County, as well as the addition of 1,000 new quality jobs in South Carolina, is set to transform the community, strengthen the workforce and fuel economic prosperity for generations to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Orangeburg County is excited to add Ferrara Candy Company to a growing list of international companies that have discovered the advantages we offer business and industry. We look forward to partnering with them as we strive together to make our community a better place to live and work.” -Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Ferrara Candy Company (Ferrara) selects Orangeburg County for its first South Carolina operation.
• The company’s $675 million investment is projected to create 1,000 new jobs over 10 years.
• Ferrara is a leading global manufacturer of sugar confections, under well-known brands such as NERDS®, SweeTARTS®, Laffy Taffy®, Trolli®, Brach’s® and Jelly Belly® in the U.S., Terry’s and Carambar in Europe, and Dori in Brazil.
• The company will be located at Highway 21 and Rowesville Road in Orangeburg, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Ferrara team should visit readySC’s recruitment website.

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Mount Pleasant, S.C. – The Town of Mount Pleasant’s 2025 Annual Report is now available online. The publication highlights major milestones, initiatives, and achievements that shaped the past year. The theme of this year’s report is a scrapbook. It represents all of the little pieces that come together to make Mount Pleasant our home – that being the community, the local businesses, and the beautiful nature and views across the town. Each individual is an important piece of what makes Mount Pleasant a unique and wonderful place to live, work, and play.

“As we reflect on 2025, Mount Pleasant continues to grow stronger through thoughtful investments in the places where our community gathers and the services that support daily life,” said Mayor Will Haynie.

Click HERE for full report.

Source: Mount Pleasant, SC Government

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Women’s basketball coach becomes only the fourth academy member at USC

By Dan Cook

Gamecock women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Coach Staley joins just three others from the University of South Carolina who are currently members of the academy: William Hubbard, dean of the Joseph F. Rice School of Law; Susan Cutter, professor of geography; and Nikky Finney, poet and professor of English language and literature. Staley is one of 252 leaders in academia, the arts, industry, journalism, philanthropy, policy, research and science elected in 2026. Very few sports figures have ever been elected. 

“Election to the Academy is a rare honor, and the university applauds Coach Staley for earning this distinction,”said President Michael Amiridis. “As an innovative coach, educator, mentor, philanthropist and role model, Coach Staley continues to elevate our students, our university and our community.”

Founded in 1780, the academy is both an honorary society that recognizes and celebrates the excellence of its members and an independent research center convening leaders from across disciplines to address significant challenges. Historically, members of the academy have included Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr. and Madeleine Albright.

Coach Staley came to the University of South Carolina in 2008 and has since led the women’s basketball team to three national championships. She has coached the Gamecocks in eight Final Four appearances, including six consecutive Final Four matchups between 2021 and 2026. South Carolina is only the second team in NCAA history to reach six Final Fours in a row. She has also coached the U.S. Olympics team three times, including as head coach in 2020, and has won a gold medal each time.

“There are so many opportunities that basketball has given me that I could have never imagined when I picked up a ball as a young girl in North Philly,” Coach Staley said. “Being elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences is definitely one of those, and I am overwhelmed by the honor of joining this group of brilliant minds from every walk of life. Every day I strive to give back to the game of basketball everything that it has provided me and to be a dream merchant and an example for young people — those who I get to work with daily and those who only know me from afar. Recognition for that is not something I think about, but I know that my inclusion in this group is another example of the uncommon favor bestowed on me. I am beyond thankful to those who chose to bring me into this circle.”

Beyond her work on the court, Staley is a strong advocate for equity in women’s sports and of developing student-athletes for off-court success. Last year, she published a New York Times bestselling memoir, Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three. Through the Dawn Staley Foundation, she supports after-school programs for at-risk youths.

“It is most fitting that Dawn Staley would be elected to membership in one of America’s most prestigious organizations, founded in 1780 by John Adams, John Hancock and others, which honors excellence in leaders who advance the ‘interest, honor, dignity, and happiness of a free, independent, and virtuous people,’” said Dean William Hubbard. “Her groundbreaking leadership has brought women’s basketball to unprecedented levels, and her mentorship of hundreds of women and men leaves a legacy for generations to come.”Gamecock women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Coach Staley joins just three others from the University of South Carolina who are currently members of the academy: William Hubbard, dean of the Joseph F. Rice School of Law; Susan Cutter, professor of geography; and Nikky Finney, poet and professor of English language and literature. Staley is one of 252 leaders in academia, the arts, industry, journalism, philanthropy, policy, research and science elected in 2026. Very few sports figures have ever been elected. 

“Election to the Academy is a rare honor, and the university applauds Coach Staley for earning this distinction,”said President Michael Amiridis. “As an innovative coach, educator, mentor, philanthropist and role model, Coach Staley continues to elevate our students, our university and our community.”

Founded in 1780, the academy is both an honorary society that recognizes and celebrates the excellence of its members and an independent research center convening leaders from across disciplines to address significant challenges. Historically, members of the academy have included Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr. and Madeleine Albright.

Coach Staley came to the University of South Carolina in 2008 and has since led the women’s basketball team to three national championships. She has coached the Gamecocks in eight Final Four appearances, including six consecutive Final Four matchups between 2021 and 2026. South Carolina is only the second team in NCAA history to reach six Final Fours in a row. She has also coached the U.S. Olympics team three times, including as head coach in 2020, and has won a gold medal each time.

“There are so many opportunities that basketball has given me that I could have never imagined when I picked up a ball as a young girl in North Philly,” Coach Staley said. “Being elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences is definitely one of those, and I am overwhelmed by the honor of joining this group of brilliant minds from every walk of life. Every day I strive to give back to the game of basketball everything that it has provided me and to be a dream merchant and an example for young people — those who I get to work with daily and those who only know me from afar. Recognition for that is not something I think about, but I know that my inclusion in this group is another example of the uncommon favor bestowed on me. I am beyond thankful to those who chose to bring me into this circle.”

Beyond her work on the court, Staley is a strong advocate for equity in women’s sports and of developing student-athletes for off-court success. Last year, she published a New York Times bestselling memoir, Uncommon Favor: Basketball, North Philly, My Mother, and the Life Lessons I Learned from All Three. Through the Dawn Staley Foundation, she supports after-school programs for at-risk youths.

“It is most fitting that Dawn Staley would be elected to membership in one of America’s most prestigious organizations, founded in 1780 by John Adams, John Hancock and others, which honors excellence in leaders who advance the ‘interest, honor, dignity, and happiness of a free, independent, and virtuous people,’” said Dean William Hubbard. “Her groundbreaking leadership has brought women’s basketball to unprecedented levels, and her mentorship of hundreds of women and men leaves a legacy for generations to come.”

In Charleston, the true measure of a small business isn’t just survival—it’s staying power with soul. Tucked along historic streets and coastal corners are businesses that have quietly thrived for more than half a century, not by scaling endlessly, but by staying deeply rooted in relationships, service, and community trust.

At Croghan’s Jewel Box, family ownership has guided the business since 1919. Generations of Charlestonians have walked through its doors for engagements, celebrations, and remembrances. What keeps Croghan’s relevant isn’t just craftsmanship—it’s the way each customer is treated like part of a living legacy. Stories are shared as often as stones are set, creating a bond that transcends transactions.
Address: 155 King Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Website: https://www.croghansjewelbox.com

Across the Cooper River, Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant has been a staple since 1967. Though it has grown over time, it remains a deeply personal operation at heart. Customers aren’t just shoppers; they’re known, styled, and remembered. The staff’s attentiveness reflects a philosophy that has carried the business through decades: evolve with taste, but never lose the human touch. Coming this summer (2026), Gwynn’s will be opening a second location on King Street in the heart of downtown Charleston, SC (
Address: 916 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Website: https://www.gwynns.com

Southern hospitality finds a home at Poogan’s Porch, serving guests since 1976. Housed in a Victorian residence, the restaurant feels less like a commercial space and more like an invitation. Its longevity comes from consistency—both in its menu and in its warmth. Locals and visitors alike return because they know what they’ll receive: comfort, familiarity, and a sense of belonging.
Address: 72 Queen Street, Charleston, SC 29401
Website: https://www.poogansporch.com

Few places embody Charleston’s culinary heritage like Hannibal’s Kitchen. Established in 1985 by Robert “Hannibal” Huger, this family-owned community driven restaurant has built its reputation on authentic Gullah Geechee flavors and unwavering consistency. More than a restaurant, it’s a cultural touchstone—where recipes are preserved, stories are shared, and the community gathers. Its longevity is rooted in tradition, resilience, and a deep connection to the people it serves.
Address: 16 Blake Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Website: https://hannibalkitchen.com

Rounding out this group is Dave’s Carry Out, a true small, single-owner operation that has quietly endured for generations. Known for its no-frills approach and fiercely loyal following, Dave’s represents the backbone of Charleston’s independent business culture. It’s the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name and newcomers quickly feel like insiders—proof that consistency and authenticity can outlast almost anything.
Address: 42 Morris Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Website: https://daves-carry-out.nearby-res.com/

Together, these businesses tell a distinctly Charleston story. Longevity here isn’t about chasing growth—it’s about nurturing relationships. Each has endured by staying close to its customers, investing in its community, and understanding that real success is measured not just in years, but in the lives touched along the way.

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Are you wondering how Charleston, South Carolina is doing in technology and innovation?

Check out the 2025 Scorecard developed by the Charleston Regional Development Alliance

Click HERE for report.

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Charleston County Parks have done a refresh of our website! The newly redesigned website is officially live at charlestoncountyparks.com – and it’s built to help members of our community explore, discover, and plan their next park adventure more easily than ever.

What’s new?

• Park Finder (https://www.ccprc.com/parks/): Quickly find the parks, facilities, and amenities you’re looking for — from beach access and trails to playgrounds, fishing piers, and more.
• Robust Events Calendar (https://www.ccprc.com/events/): Discover festivals, programs, camps, classes, and special events all in one place, with improved filtering to help you find exactly what fits your schedule.
• Feature Stories (www.ccprc.com/blog): Go beyond the map with stories that highlight the people, places, and experiences that make Charleston County Parks special in our Park Bench Stories.
• Choose Your Own Adventure: Not sure where to go? Let us help you match your interests — nature, history, family fun, or outdoor adventure — with the perfect park experience. (From the homepage)

We hope the new site makes it easier for members of Charleston community to connect with the parks they know and discover new ones along the way.

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