Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A Leon

The Palmetto Hotel, opened in March 2023, has quickly established itself as one of Charleston’s most distinguished boutique properties. Here’s why it stands out:

A Fusion of Southern History and Modern Luxury

• The hotel is literally built atop Charleston’s original city wall—an extraordinary historical touchstone that’s woven into its identity.
• Its design reflects Charleston’s spirit at every turn—from vintage black-and-white party photographs and Lowcountry–inspired custom upholstery to a map of 1872 Charleston printed on a sofa.

Boutique Elegance with Thoughtful Details

• With just 45 rooms, the Palmetto maintains an intimate, personalized feel.
• Interiors showcase soothing palettes (soft creams, greens, gold accents), curated local artwork, and comfortable yet luxurious textures.

A Lobby That Inspires

• Guests are greeted by a palmetto-tree shaped crystal chandelier hanging from the high ceiling—a gilded nod to the hotel’s namesake.
• The lobby is furnished with antiques, restored vintage pieces, and cozy furniture including a sofa upholstered with a vintage Charleston map.

Award-Winning Recognition

• In its first full year, the hotel earned prestigious accolades:
  
  • AAA Four Diamond rating
  • Ranked #2 in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards for Charleston
  • Listed among Travel + Leisure’s “15 Best Hotels in Charleston” 

A Standout Bar & Local Engagement

• The lobby bar is popular with both guests and locals, renowned for elevated cocktails made with house-made mixers, alongside local spirits.
• The hotel hosts pop-ups and culinary activations in partnership with local tastemakers.

Exceptional Amenities with Southern Comfort

• Guest rooms offer thoughtful luxury—Bamford toiletries, embroidered spa robes, plush slippers, Nespresso machines, minibars, steamers, in-room safes, and flat-screen TVs with Chromecast.
• Services include complimentary Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, nightly turndown, valet parking, laundry/dry cleaning, concierge, 24/7 front desk, and even custom bicycles to explore the city.

Variety of Room Styles

• The hotel offers a range of room types:
  
  • Deluxe King and Superior King rooms feature comfortable, artful designs with king-size beds, plush linens, and seating areas.
  • King Balcony rooms include Juliet balconies perfect for enjoying Charleston’s coastal breeze.
  • Penthouse Suite spans 1,500 sq ft, with floor-to-ceiling windows, a 500-sq-ft balcony with panoramic skyline views, living room, workout gear, Bose speaker, and Dyson hair tools.

Prime Historic Location

• Located at 194 East Bay Street in the French Quarter historic district, the hotel sits within walking distance of standout attractions such as Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park, King Street’s shops, City Market, and famed local eateries like Slightly North of Broad and High Cotton—all just steps away.
• Concierge-curated experiences, including bicycle outings, walking tours, oyster farm visits, or sunset sails, bring the city’s charm to life.

Unique Qualities at a Glance

• Historical foundations: Built above Charleston’s original city wall
• Boutique elegance: Only 45 thoughtfully designed rooms
• Local design flair: Artwork, upholstery, and decor rooted in Charleston culture
• Striking lobby: Crystal palmetto-tree chandelier, custom-curated vintage ambiance
• Award-winning: AAA Diamond, Condé Nast & Travel + Leisure honors
• Craft cocktail bar: Locally inspired drinks and rotating pop-ups
• Luxury amenities: High-end toiletries, bikes, breakfast, turndown, and more
• Room variety: From balcony rooms to the expansive Penthouse
• Walkable historic location: Central to top attractions and nightlife
• Embracing local experience: Concierge-led dives into Charleston’s heritage

At The Palmetto Hotel, visitors find a perfectly curated blend of Southern charm, thoughtful design, and modern-day luxury—where every detail deepens the connection to Charleston’s history and hospitality. Let me know if you’d like recommendations for similar boutique stays or nearby experiences

Follow The Palmetto Hotel on Instagram.

Photo credit: The Palmetto Hotel

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

State and federal officials today joined Thermo Fisher Scientific, the world leader in serving science, in celebrating the opening of a new manufacturing center of excellence built in coordination with the federal government to strengthen U.S. supply chain resilience and support research and therapy development for decades to come.

“Thermo Fisher Scientific’s new facility strengthens North Carolina’s leadership in the biotech sector and strengthens our domestic supply chain,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am proud to welcome this global company to Mebane as it expands its North Carolina presence with 100 good-paying jobs.”  

Thermo Fisher, based in Waltham, Mass, built the 375,000-square-foot manufacturing plant under a $192.5 million contract awarded in 2021 by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense.

The site is designed for efficiency, with advanced automation that produces 40 million pipette tips per week, ensuring a reliable supply of critical lab plastics. The tiny tips are crucial tools needed in high-throughput diagnostic testing and scientific research across the globe. They are used to accurately measure and transfer liquids in laboratories, whether for experiments, running tests, or developing new medicines.

“As a global leader in life sciences manufacturing, we’re proud to serve as a growth engine for the American economy and provide our customers with a strong and agile supply chain that enables them to advance human health,” said Erica Hirsch, president, laboratory chemicals, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “The opening of our Mebane site is a testament to our larger strategy to strengthen our manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. and support continued innovation and expanded growth in North Carolina, building on the strong foundation we’ve already established in this state.” 

In addition to this facility, Thermo Fisher committed earlier this year to a $2 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing capabilities over the next four years. That investment includes $1.5 billion for expanding and enhancing manufacturing operations and $500 million for high-impact research and development, creating high-paying jobs, while adding lab services capability and supporting the domestic healthcare supply chain.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein addresses dignitaries, Thermo Fisher customers and colleagues at the opening of the company’s new pipette manufacturing facility in Mebane.

“As a global leader in life sciences manufacturing, we’re proud to serve as a growth engine for the American economy and provide our customers with a strong and agile supply chain that enables them to advance human health.” – Erica Hirsch, President, Laboratory Chemicals – Thermo Fisher Scientific

Those attending the opening ceremony were invited to tour the new facility and hear directly from leaders about the site’s impact.

The building features advanced automation throughout its production line and is expected to employ 100 people across manufacturing, engineering and business operations when fully staffed later this year.

Currently, Thermo Fisher employs approximately 7,800 colleagues across 13 sites in North Carolina, including a center of excellence for laboratory equipment in Asheville, three life sciences and chemical manufacturing sites in Durham, pharmaceutical manufacturing sites in Greenville and High Point, and a Raleigh distribution center.

Source: ThermoFisher Scientific

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

The $700 million project is part of Genentech and Roche’s $50 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, infrastructure and R&D The facility will create more than 1,900 jobs and support the production of next-generation metabolic medicines, including treatments for obesity U.S. Rep.Deborah Ross, Gov. Josh Stein and other local leaders attended the groundbreaking event

Holly Springs, N.C. — August 25, 2025 — Genentech, a member of the Roche Group (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY), today broke ground on its newest U.S. manufacturing site in Holly Springs, North Carolina. This significant development marks the establishment of Genentech’s first manufacturing facility on the East Coast. The 700,000-square-foot facility is strategically designed to support production of the company’s future portfolio of metabolic medicines, including next-generation treatments for obesity. The event was attended by federal, state and local officials, including U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein, State Sec. of Commerce Lee Lilley, State Sens. Sydney Batch and Lisa Grafstein, State Rep. Erin Paré, Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings and Holly Springs Mayor Sean Mayefskie.

The project will add more than 400 local manufacturing jobs when the site is operational and more than 1,500 construction jobs during the development phase. Genentech’s initial investment in North Carolina is estimated at more than $700 million, part of a larger $50 billion commitment to President Trump’s initiatives to invest in U.S. manufacturing, infrastructure and R&D.

The company selected Holly Springs, a growing hub for biopharmaceutical innovation, for its highly skilled local workforce, strong academic institutions and proximity to other leading life science companies in the Raleigh-Durham area.

The new facility is expected to be completed and operational by 2029, incorporating modern biomanufacturing technologies, as well as advanced automation and digital capabilities. The future facility will increase production capacity for the company’s manufacturing network, while enhancing supply chain resilience through a high-volume, high-efficiency yet sustainable design. The 100-acre lot includes space for future expansion.

Genentech CEO Ashley Magargee:

“We are proud to break ground on our new manufacturing site in Holly Springs, North Carolina, with its world-class biotech talent, top research institutions and a robust infrastructure that will enable our growth for years to come. With this step, we are taking action to deliver more life-changing medicines to patients faster, contribute to the local economy, and bolster manufacturing and innovation in the U.S.,” Magargee said.

“We are supportive of President Trump’s goal to bring more pharmaceutical manufacturing to the United States and appreciate the work that Commerce Secretary Lutnick and the Department of Commerce’s U.S. Investment Accelerator are doing to remove regulatory barriers that cause delays in establishing manufacturing sites in the U.S. We also thank the North Carolina, Wake County and Holly Springs officials for their partnership. Their warm welcome and leadership in the life sciences bodes well for great things to come for our company, your communities, and, ultimately, for patients.”

U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, 2nd North Carolina Congressional District:

“This groundbreaking is a milestone for our community and for North Carolina’s growing role in the biotech economy. Investments like this one mean good-paying jobs for our residents, expanded opportunities for workers with a range of skills and education, and continued growth for the Research Triangle’s innovation ecosystem. I look forward to working with Genentech to ensure this facility helps our region to thrive for decades to come.”

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein:

“North Carolina has earned its reputation as the best state for business, and Genentech’s decision to put down roots in Holly Springs is further proof of our leadership in the biotech sector. From our top-tier research universities to our world-class workforce, North Carolina has exactly what companies need to succeed. I am pleased to welcome Genentech to Holly Springs as they expand their operations to the East Coast.”

Holly Springs Mayor Sean Mayefskie:

“The groundbreaking of Genentech’s new facility marks a defining step forward for Holly Springs. Not only does it strengthen Holly Springs’ role as a cornerstone in North Carolina’s life sciences manufacturing ecosystem, but we expect to see a powerful boost to our local economy, particularly for small businesses. We are thrilled for Genentech to be part of our community!”

About Genentech

Founded nearly 50 years ago, Genentech is a leading biotechnology company that discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines to treat patients with serious and life-threatening medical conditions. The company, a member of the Roche Group, has headquarters in South San Francisco, California. For additional information about the company, please visit http://www.gene.com.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Source: Genentech

Clemson University was named the Best College in South Carolina in Niche‘s 2026 Best College Rankings, earning top marks for Best Academics, Best Professors and Best College Athletics among all universities in the Palmetto State.

Niche also lauded the University as the No. 27 Top Public University nationally in addition to ranking Clemson as No. 5 Best College Athletics in the country.

In addition to being named the Best College and having the Best Academics and Best Professors in South Carolina, Clemson also has top-ranked programs in business, psychology, biology, education, computer science, accounting and finance, nursing and economics in the state.

Clemson also earned national recognition for several individual colleges and degree programs, including No. 13  Best Colleges for Sports Management, No. 14  Best Colleges for Architecture, No. 16  Best Colleges for Agricultural Sciences, No. 26  Best Colleges for Education and No. 30  Best Colleges for Accounting and Finance. 

Niche’s recognition follows several recent accolades from The Princeton Review, which named Clemson as one of the best colleges in the South, a Best Value College, No. 6 Top 20 Best Alumni Networks (Public Schools), No. 11 Top 20 Best Schools for Internships (Public Schools), No. 16 Students Love Their School Teams, No. 24 Best Athletic Facilities and No. 20 Best Career Services.

Source: Clemson University

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

MONCKS CORNER, S.C., Aug. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Home Telecom is continuing its mission to bring fast, reliable, and secure connectivity to the Lowcountry with the latest deployment of SmartTown Community Wi-Fi at Berkeley High School’s athletic fields. 

Berkeley County School District’s Superintendent, Dr. Anthony Dixon said, “We greatly appreciate our local business partnerships that not only benefit our students, but their families as well. We are excited about this opportunity for our Stag families. Thank you to Home Telecom for providing this service to our Berkeley High community.”

The timing could not be better — the SmartTown Wi-Fi launch will coincide with the Berkeley Stags’ first home Varsity Football game of the season against the Winter Park Wildcats at Moody Field on Friday, August 29. 

“We’re thrilled to partner with Home Telecom to bring SmartTown Wi-Fi to our athletic facilities,” said Principal Heather Ducker of Berkeley High School. “This upgrade means our students, families, and guests can stay connected while enjoying athletic events. It is a great step forward in enhancing the experience for everyone who supports Berkeley High — both on and off the field.” 

“This is a game-changer for Berkeley High School fans,” said Gina Shuler, vice president of Marketing at Home Telecom. “For the first time, Stag supporters and visitors will enjoy free, fast, and secure Wi-Fi at Moody Field and surrounding athletic fields.

“Whether you are streaming highlights, sharing photos, or checking scores, SmartTown Wi-Fi will keep you connected.”

SmartTown Wi-Fi is designed to deliver a seamless experience. Home Telecom customers will automatically connect when entering the athletic fields, while visitors can easily join the SmartTown Visitor network while on-site. 

This launch follows successful rollouts in Nexton and Main Street Moncks Corner, where residents quickly embraced enhanced connectivity. SmartTown is not just free Wi-Fi — it is community Wi-Fi done right, offering superior speed, reliability, and security, including protection against hacks, viruses, and other online threats. 

Already a Home Telecom customer? Home Telecom has emailed you with onboarding instructions to ensure a smooth connection. 
New to SmartTown? 

Visit https://www.homesc.com/SmartTown and click “Get Started” to learn how to connect. 

About Home Telecom

Home Telecom is an innovative communications provider with a history that spans more than 120 years headquartered in Moncks Corner, SC. Home Telecom provides multi-gig internet, app-based video, next generation security services, home automation, and voice over IP telephone services to residents and businesses in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester Counties of South Carolina. They utilize a variety of state-of-the-art technologies, most notably FTTP technology, making them a leader in providing the fastest broadband internet services in the state. For more information, visit https://www.homesc.com/.

SOURCE Home Telecom

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

By Mark A Leon 

Tucked away on Clements Ferry Road in Charleston, Catrina’s Tacos & Tequila is more than just a Mexican restaurant—it’s an immersive experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re wrapped in a kaleidoscope of color, culture, and celebration, thanks to its bold interior design inspired by Día de los Muertos. Guests are welcomed not just with smiles, but often with surprise tequila shots, setting the tone for a festive, communal vibe. With standout dishes ranging from inventive sushi rolls to a dramatic tomahawk steak, Catrina’s delivers both style and substance.

Ambiance & Interior Design

Stepping into Catrina’s Tacos & Tequila off Clements Ferry Road feels like entering a perpetual fiesta. The space bursts with vibrant colors and energy, blending playful Mexican motifs and the spirit of Día de los Muertos into every detail. Striking murals adorn the walls, while elegant Catrina dolls (the restaurant’s namesake and a classic Day of the Dead icon) sit atop shelves, infusing both tradition and whimsy. This effective mix of festive and stylish elements creates an atmosphere that feels lively and inviting yet sophisticated—a rare feat that’s immediately memorable and photogenic.

Unique Touches: Free Shots & Social Experience

Catrina’s stands out for its friendly approach to hospitality—reports of complimentary shots (often tequila) for guests pop up around special occasions and in their opening events, setting a tone of celebration and generosity. While not necessarily a nightly ritual, the management does occasionally surprise tables with a round, especially during noteworthy celebrations, grand openings, or lively weekends.

Food Review: From Sushi to Tomahawk Steak

Menu diversity is a signature at Catrina’s. While the base is robust Mexican fare—think handcrafted corn tortillas and vibrant tacos—there are also innovative options not typically found at taquerias. The menu even features sushi, an unexpected twist that somehow fits seamlessly with the overall concept. Traditional Mexican flavors are honored, but guests willing to step off the beaten path can enjoy fresh, creatively-presentedsushi rolls, which have received enthusiastic nods from diners looking for something different.

The Tomahawk steak is another focal point. It is a hefty, show-stopping cut, expertly seasoned and prepared for sharing. Its presentation leans theatrical, meant to impress tables celebrating something special or just in the mood for an indulgent treat. Well-marbled, flavorful, and cooked to order, the tomahawk consistently draws applause for both taste and wow-factor.

Standout Details

* Handmade tortillas and thoughtfully-sourced ingredients elevate standards like tacos and nachos.
* Bar offerings focus on 100%-agave tequila, deeply curated mezcal selections, and fresh, house-made margaritas for a high-quality cocktail experience.
* Community vibe: Families, couples, and bar patrons coexist comfortably, making it equally suited for a casual family outing or a lively night with friends.

Full Menu Link

Final Verdict

Catrina’s Tacos & Tequila at Clements Ferry offers Charleston a unique destination for those seeking flavor, fun, and flair under one colorful roof. With design that dazzles, a menu that surprises (from sushi to tomahawk steak), and a warm hospitality marked by occasional free shots, Catrina’s is more than another Mexican eatery—it’s a vibrant gathering spot that brings genuine joy to the local dining scene.

Related: Charleston Daily Brunch Guide: Over 100 links and menus

Related: 6 Great Ethnic Restaurants in North Charleston, SC

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Country Superstar Will Make His CCMF Debut in Myrtle Beach – Tickets On Sale Now

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AUGUST 22, 2025) — Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF), the East Coast’s largest outdoor country music fest, has announced its first headliner for the 2026 event: Blake Shelton. The multi-award-winning superstar will make his CCMF debut when the fest returns to Myrtle Beach, S.C., on June 4–7, 2026.

For more than two decades, Shelton has been a defining voice in country music, earning 30 #1 singles, 52 million singles and 13 million albums sold, and nearly 11 billion global streams. A Grand Ole Opry member and one of the genre’s most recognizable ambassadors, his career accolades include six ACM Awards, three American Music Awards, ten CMA Awards, eleven CMT Awards, and six People’s Choice Awards. With a catalog of chart-topping hits and an electrifying live show, Shelton’s first appearance on the CCMF stage will be one of the festival’s most anticipated moments to date.

Currently climbing the country charts with his latest single “Texas,” Shelton’s 2025 schedule included a “Live in Las Vegas” residency at Caesars Palace and his “Friends and Heroes” Tour with Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, and Trace Adkins.  The Road, premiering October 19 on CBS, is a gritty new series co-produced by Shelton, Taylor Sheridan, David Glasser, Lee Metzger, and Keith Urban that follows aspiring artists on a grueling national tour, exposing the raw reality of chasing a dream in music.

“Blake Shelton is one of the most iconic artists in country music, and we’re proud to welcome him to the CCMF stage for the very first time,”said Bob Durkin, co-founder of Southern Entertainment, producers of CCMF. “Our fans have been asking for him for years, and his addition sets the tone for what promises to be another unforgettable year on the beach.”

With four consecutive sellouts and recognition from USA Today, Billboard, and Rolling Stone, CCMF has become one of the most in-demand country music fests in the nation, celebrating more than a decade of delivering unforgettable live music experiences on the shores of Myrtle Beach. Shelton is the first of four superstar headliners to be announced, with additional artists to be revealed in the coming weeks.

Tickets for CCMF 2026 are on sale now at CarolinaCountryMusicFest.com. Fans who purchase early will lock in the lowest price of the year, a CCMF tradition that rewards early buyers before the full lineup is unveiled. For the latest updates and exclusive #CCMFHints, fans are encouraged to follow Carolina Country Music Fest on Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.

About CCMF: 
Carolina Country Music Fest™, (CCMF), the East Coast’s largest outdoor country music fest, is located in Myrtle Beach, SC, at the Boardwalk within the Burroughs and Chapin Pavilion Place. CCMF is host to the industry’s biggest stars with 40+ artists at the beach, June 4th-7th, 2026. CCMF hosts a unique blend of today’s country headliners, regional stars, up-and-comers and locals favorites on multiple stages. With the combination of country music and the scenic beach backdrop, this family-friendly, four-day fest is a summer vacation destination.

About Blake Shelton:
With 30 No. 1 singles, 52 million singles and 13 million albums sold and nearly 11 billion global streams, Blake Shelton has received numerous awards, including six ACMs, three AMAs, ten CMAs, 11 CMTs and six People’s Choice, among many others. His debut BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville album, For Recreational Use Only, was recently released and the 12-track album, his first in nearly four years, features his No. 1 Wheelhouse Records single “Texas,” the poignant “Let Him In Anyway,” his current single, “Stay Country or Die Tryin’” and includes appearances by Gwen Stefani, John Anderson and Craig Morgan. 

Shelton kick-started the year with his Live In Las Vegas Residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Earlier this year, he wrapped his Friends & Heroes Tour, which featured Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins, and Emily Ann Roberts, and spent the summer playing a variety of festivals. The Grand Ole Opry member also remains focused on his Ole Red partnership with Ryman Hospitality, with locations currently in Tishomingo, Nashville, Gatlinburg, Orlando, and most recently, Las Vegas, with a stand-alone venue complete with a roof-top stage and bar on the Las Vegas strip.

Look for Shelton this fall in The Road, a gritty new CBS series he co-produced alongside Taylor Sheridan, David Glasser, Lee Metzger, and headliner Keith Urban. The show follows aspiring artists on a relentless national tour, offering a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the highs, lows, and hard truths of chasing a dream from the road.

For more information, please visit www.BlakeShelton.com and follow @BlakeShelton.

About Southern Entertainment: 
Southern Entertainment is a full-service event and production company with an unwavering commitment to excellence that has produced more than 500 events across the United States. For more information, visit www.southernentertainment.com

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

By Mark A Leon

As the College of Charleston welcomes students back for the 2025–2026 school year, the campus is abuzz with renewed energy. Historic buildings glow under live oaks, and a sense of promise fills the air, welcoming both new faces and familiar ones. Here’s a refreshed look at 20 amazing things you should know about the College of Charleston, spotlighting true alumni and remarkable “firsts.”

1. Founded in 1770

The College of Charleston is the oldest institution of higher learning south of Virginia and the 13th oldest in the nation. 

2. Chartered by Founding Fathers

Officially chartered in 1785, its founders included three signers of the Declaration of Independence—Thomas Heyward Jr., Arthur Middleton, and Edward Rutledge—as well as three signers of the Constitution. 

3. The First Municipal College

In 1837, it became the first municipal college in the United States, funded entirely by the city. 

4. The Iconic Cistern Yard

Graduation is held at the storied Cistern Yard, where generations of Cougars have graduated beneath moss-draped oaks—an enduring tradition since 1931. (Tradition confirmed via general knowledge.)

5. Randolph Hall’s Cinematic Legacy

Built in 1828 and a National Historic Landmark, Randolph Hall is one of the most recognizable college buildings—frequently seen in films like The Notebook and shows such as Outer Banks. (As cited earlier.)

6. Seamless Urban Campus

With its campus integrated into downtown Charleston’s historic district, students benefit from a unique blend of academic life and city heritage.

7. Distinguished Alumni – True Trailblazers

Here are some authentic alumni who left lasting marks on history:

• Robert Mills (studied late 18th c.) – America’s first native-born professional architect; designer of the Washington Monument, U.S. Treasury, and Patent Office buildings.  
• John Charles Frémont (Class of 1836) – “The Great Pathfinder,” first Republican presidential nominee (1856), major general in the Civil War, and territorial governor.  
• Ludwig Lewisohn (Class of 1901) – Influential novelist, translator, literary critic, and founding professor at Brandeis University.  
• Burnet R. Maybank (Class of 1919) – Served as Charleston mayor, governor of South Carolina, and U.S. senator, shaping the New Deal era. Maybank Hall on campus bears his name.  
• Frank Blair (Class of 1934) – Early anchor and newsman on NBC’s Today (1953–1974).  
• Eddie Ganaway (Class of 1971) – The first African American student to graduate from CofC; his legacy includes a Diversity Education and Resource Center named in his honor.  
• Arlinda Locklear (Class of 1973) – The first Native American woman to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court.  
• Matt Czuchry (Class of 1999) – Actor known for Gilmore Girls, The Good Wife, and The Resident.  
• Thomas Gibson – Actor featured in Dharma & Greg, Criminal Minds, and Chicago Hope.  
• Orlando Jones – Actor and comedian known for MADtv, American Gods, and more.  
• Allison Munn (Class of 1997) – Actress from That ’70s Show, One Tree Hill, and What I Like About You.  
• Cary Ann Hearst (Class of 2001) – Part of the musical duo Shovels & Rope; “Hell’s Bells” featured on True Blood.  
• Edwin McCain – Pop singer-songwriter known for hits like “I’ll Be.”  
• Anthony Johnson (Class of 1997) – The first CofC player drafted into the NBA; had a 14-year pro career.  

8. Cougar Spirit

Clyde the Cougar embodies school pride, energizing athletic events and campus life.

9. Charleston’s UNESCO Potential

Charleston is nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage city, giving students a culturally rich learning environment.

10. Marine Biology Leadership

Leveraging its coastal locale, CofC offers one of the nation’s strongest marine biology programs.

11. Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art

A dynamic arts venue hosting exhibitions and artist residencies that connect the campus to the broader art world.

12. Classrooms in Historic Homes

Many academic spaces are housed in beautifully restored 18th- and 19th-century homes, merging history with study.

13. Global Study Programs

Offering over 60 study-abroad programs, CofC consistently ranks among the top schools for global education. Click HERE to learn more about the Department of International Studies.

14. Sustainability Advocate

One of the first in the Southeast to establish a Sustainability Literacy Institute—equipping students for environmental leadership.

15. Precious Collections in Addlestone Library

Highly regarded for its special collections, including Revolutionary-era documents and regional archives.

16. A Civic Arts Hub

A key partner in Spoleto Festival USA, enriching Charleston’s arts and culture scene.

17. Literary Connections

While not alumni, literary figures like Pat Conroy and Dorothea Benton Frank are staked in Charleston’s cultural heritage—and have inspired both the college and its students.

18. Athletics in the CAA

CofC competes in the Colonial Athletic Association, with basketball and baseball drawing national attention.

19. Undergraduate Research Excellence

Students frequently engage in hands-on research across disciplines from their first year.

20. A Living Tradition

CofC embodies a living legacy—blending history, innovation, and tight-knit community in a campus nestled within a historic city.

Summary of Key “Firsts” and Alumni

Here’s a concise sidebar-style list:

• 1770 – Founded (13th oldest in the U.S.)
• 1785 – Chartered by Founding Fathers
• 1837 – First municipal college in the U.S.
• 1971 – First African American graduate (Eddie Ganaway)
• 1973 – First Native American woman to argue before the Supreme Court (Arlinda Locklear)

Notable alumni include Robert Mills, John Charles Frémont, Burnet Maybank, Frank Blair, Eddie Ganaway, Arlinda Locklear, Matt Czuchry, Thomas Gibson, Orlando Jones, Allison Munn, Cary Ann Hearst, Edwin McCain, and Anthony Johnson.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

One of Charleston’s Leading Female Talents to Follow Tenure of Chef Don Drake at Landmark Restaurant 

August 19, 2025 – Charleston, SC – Hospitality Management Group Inc. (HMGI) is pleased to announce  Chef Kelly Franz has been named as Culinary Director of Magnolias restaurant. A veteran of the Charleston  culinary scene, Franz replaces Magnolias’ Culinary Arts Director, Don Drake, who will retire after 34 years  with the company.  

“The Fall season will bring transition to Magnolias,” says TJ Parsell, Owner and President of HMGI. “We’re thrilled to have Kelly Franz return to lead our culinary  program. Her vision will build on our foundation of excellence and reputation for  upscale Southern cuisine while bringing exciting new energy to the restaurant.”  Parsell continues, “At the same time, we bid a fond farewell to Don Drake. Since 1991, Chef Drake has been a driving force behind Magnolias. His passion for food  and hospitality has kept us at the top of our game, and I salute his dedication. Most of all, I appreciate his partnership and friendship through these years.”

Franz shares, “Having begun my professional career at Magnolias, it’s wonderful to be ‘coming home,’ and an honor to carry on the legacy of Don Drake and others  who’ve worked here. The restaurant is truly a touchstone of the Charleston food and wine community. I look forward to adding my signature to the menu, while continuing to emphasize local seafood and produce, serving the classic Lowcountry dishes that keep people coming back to our table.” Franz’s menu changes will begin this  week with highlights including Shellfish Gumbo with shrimp, local fish, crab, okra, andouille sausage and  jasmine rice, and BBQ Tuna Tartare with crispy cornbread, pickled okra. Rounding out Franz’s team will be  Executive Chef Sam Simpson, Chef de Cuisine Kevin Southerlin and Sous Chef Alecia Fore. 

Franz will be one of a handful of pioneering female head chefs in town as she takes the lead of a venerable Charleston dining institution with a national reputation. As the city recovered from Hurricane Hugo,  Magnolias ignited a culinary renaissance when it opened its doors on East Bay Street in 1990. This hot, new  fine dining restaurant was among the first in the US to serve a menu with a sophisticated spin on Southern  dishes. Soon after, “New Southern Cuisine” became a genre unto itself. Magnolias caught on with patrons and the press and paved the way for countless other restaurants across the South. 35 years later, the Magnolias of today is a “grand dame” among Southern establishments.  

Franz believes the key to Magnolias’ success is consistency. She will strive to stay true to the favorite dishes that so many people travel to Charleston to revisit, while constantly evolving the menu to reflect current trends, new ingredients and seasonality.  

About Magnolias Culinary Director, Chef Kelly Franz 

Kelly Franz’s early life shaped her love of food and cooking. “Growing up in a traveling military family often  meant experiencing different cultures through food,” says Franz. “My time in the kitchen began at a young  age when I would help my father cook Sunday brunch. Eventually, food became a passion, where even  grocery shopping was part of the fun.”  

Franz moved to Charleston in 2002 to attend the Culinary Institute of Charleston (at Trident Technical College). While a student, she joined Magnolias in November 2003, becoming the restaurant’s Sous Chef  in 2005. Franz’s leadership skills and strong work ethic propelled her through the ranks; she became Chef  de Cuisine in 2009 and Executive Chef in 2015. She was hired by Kiawah Island’s Food & Beverage team  in 2019 and worked at several of the resort’s restaurants, rising to the position of Executive Chef at the  prestigious River Club.  

Franz has received recognition and accolades from notable publications including USA Today, National Culinary Review and Wine Spectator. Additionally, Franz was runner-up in season 6 of the Food Network’s  Cutthroat Kitchen and appeared on Bite Club with (Magnolias alum) Chef Tyler Florence. She is an active  member of the Charleston community, serving the local Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier among other  causes. 

When not in the kitchen at Magnolias, Franz enjoys spending time with her husband and son on a fishing boat in the Charleston Harbor, enjoying Folly Beach and entertaining at her home on James Island.  

The Legacy of Chef Donald Drake 

Magnolias’ Culinary Arts Director Donald “Don” Drake has over 30 years of experience working in  Magnolias’ legendary East Bay Street kitchen. He joined the restaurant as Sous Chef in 1991 and rose to  become the leader who kept Magnolias at the top of the nation’s list for exceptional Southern cuisine.  Says Drake, “To have been a part of the Magnolias legacy is truly a highlight of my career. I’m grateful  to have had the opportunity to lead this restaurant, for my team and for the management of the Parsell  family and HMGI. Kelly Franz will do a fantastic job in her new position. I’m looking forward to some free  time to enjoy my family along with travel and new adventures. Retirement will no doubt find me visiting  Magnolias often to see what magic Chef Franz creates.”  

Early in his career, Chef Drake attended the Culinary Institute of America and trained under Chef Barry Wine at the critically acclaimed, four-star Quilted Giraffe in New York City. With a passion for traveling, Drake embarked on a culinary world tour after receiving his degree. Notably, Drake worked in Honolulu’s celebrated Roy’s, mastering his culinary skills under famed Chef Roy Yamaguchi.  

In 1991, Drake and his family relocated to Isle of Palms and he began his career with Magnolias. Integrating  his international culinary background into Magnolias’distinctive Southern menu, Drake prepared dishes with worldly flavors that remained true to the history and culture of their Lowcountry beginnings.  

Chef Drake has represented Magnolias at culinary events around the Southeast including five dinners at the renowned James Beard House. Under his leadership, Magnolias received the American Culinary Federation Achievement of Excellence Award in 2011. Additionally, he authored two cookbooks for the restaurant, Uptown Down South Cuisine (Gibbs Smith, 2015) and Magnolias Classic Southern Cuisine – Collected Recipes from the Heart of Charleston (Gibbs Smith, 2024).

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

The Rosenwald Schools were a critical force for educational empowerment in the segregated American South during the early 20th century. Spearheaded by philanthropist Julius Rosenwald and guided by the advocacy of Booker T. Washington, this initiative built thousands of classrooms, shops, and teacher homes—nearly 500 in South Carolina alone—from 1917 to 1932  . These schools provided a pathway to learning for African American children who had otherwise limited and uneven access to proper educational facilities.

Rosenwald Schools were collaborative projects: financial contributions came from the Fund, local Black and white communities, and public bodies. In South Carolina, this model translated into lasting impact—over 74,000 Black students were taught in these buildings.

Surviving Rosenwald Schools in South Carolina

Though many have been lost or repurposed, quite a few Rosenwald schools still stand across the state—some beautifully restored, others awaiting preservation.

Hannah Rosenwald School, Newberry County

Built in 1924–25, this three-teacher school was part of the Utopia (Hannah) community near the AME church. It featured three classrooms, cloakrooms, and an industrial room. Despite closing in the 1960s, it remains standing and is now used by the Hannah A.M.E. Church for storage. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places  .

Catawba Rosenwald School, York County

Constructed in 1924–25 according to Rosenwald’s Plan No. 20, this two-teacher school—also known locally as Liberty Hill School—is one of just two remaining Rosenwald schools in York County. Ownership remains with the Rock Hill School District and the building is listed on the National Register.

Pine Grove Rosenwald School, Richland County

Dating to 1923 and built in the Rosenwald Community School Plan 2-C style, Pine Grove is the only Rosenwald school still standing in its county. Centered on preservation, the community and local foundations funded an extensive restoration, and today it functions as a community museum and educational site. It’s recognized on the National Register.

St. George Rosenwald School, Dorchester County

Constructed in 1925–26, this school evolved into a pivotal community center. It served as a hub for civil rights organizing, voter registration, and educational resilience during and after Jim Crow. In 2021, it joined the African American Civil Rights Network.

Great Branch Teacherage, Orangeburg County

While the school itself no longer exists, the accompanying teacher’s residence—a teacherage—is preserved. Built in 1924–25, this structure survived the demolition of the main school complex and is now on the National Register.

Other Notable Survivors

In the Pee Dee region, four more Rosenwald schools still stand:

• Black Creek Rosenwald School (Mount Croghan) – now a private home
• Mt. Zion Rosenwald School (Florence County)
• Pleasant Hill Rosenwald School (Dillon County)
• Rosenwald Dillon Colored High School (Dillon)
  These sites are identified in state archives.

Preservation Efforts & Legacy

South Carolina today recognizes fewer than 100 Rosenwald structures still standing—a testament to both the passage of time and the threats of neglect or development  . The SC Rosenwald Schools Trail Study, led by WeGOJA Foundation in partnership with state historic and park agencies, is actively working to document, assess, and potentially transform several schools into a heritage trail or state park. It includes strategic community engagement and planning efforts, with St. George as a model site.

Conclusion

The Rosenwald Schools are more than old buildings—they are monuments to a collective effort that empowered Black communities through education during deeply unjust times. As South Carolina continues efforts to recognize, restore, and preserve these structures, their stories of resilience, community, and hope remain relevant and vital for future generations

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.