Written by: JR Robinson

Columbia, South Carolina, was the epicenter of the state’s nonprofit and philanthropic sector in February 2025 as it hosted the largest gathering of community leaders, visionaries, and grassroots advocates at the 2025 SC Nonprofit Summit. This much-anticipated event brought together over 600 attendees for three days of inspiration, learning, and collaboration under the theme “Creating Common Ground.” The summit not only featured renowned keynote speakers and dynamic workshops but also honored the unsung heroes whose service is transforming communities across the Midlands and beyond.

Keynote Speakers: Vision and Leadership for a Changing South Carolina

The Summit opened with a powerful keynote address from former Governor David Beasley, a South Carolina native and Nobel Peace Prize laureate for his work as Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme. Drawing on his global experience combating hunger and promoting peace, Beasley challenged attendees to harness unity and bold leadership to address systemic challenges at home. His message underscored the critical role nonprofits play in building resilient communities, especially in times of uncertainty and change.

Attendees were also inspired by Dr. Manuel Pastor, a distinguished professor at the University of Southern California and director of the Equity Research Institute, and Dr. Chris Benner, a leading scholar on technology and social change from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Their joint keynote explored how South Carolina’s rapid growth can be made more inclusive, ensuring that prosperity reaches every corner of the state. By weaving together research, data, and real-world examples, they encouraged nonprofit leaders to foster equity and collaboration in every aspect of their work.

Collaboration at the Heart: Creating Common Ground

The summit’s theme, “Creating Common Ground,” resonated throughout the event. Over 30 breakout sessions and six hours of networking gave participants the tools and connections to drive collective impact. Workshops ranged from strategic planning and nonprofit sustainability to community engagement and innovative partnership models.

A highlight was the Local Leaders Panel, where elected officials and grassroots changemakers shared candid insights on building consensus and driving local progress. Panelists included Todd Glover, Executive Director of the Municipal Association of SC; school board member Sylvia Harrison of Fairfield County; Councilor Liz Seman of Greenville County; Councilwoman Tamika Williams Obeng of Georgetown; and Mayor Alston DeVenny of Lancaster. Their stories illuminated how local leadership, when paired with nonprofit collaboration, can address complex challenges and empower communities to thrive.

Inspiring Stories from the Local Leaders Panel

Panelists brought real-world examples of how cross-sector partnerships are making a difference. Councilwoman Tamika Williams Obeng described innovative youth engagement programs in Georgetown, while Mayor Alston DeVenny highlighted how Lancaster’s revitalization efforts have benefited from nonprofit partnerships focused on affordable housing and small business support. These leaders emphasized the importance of listening to community voices, building trust, and leveraging diverse perspectives to create lasting solutions.

Honoring Service: The 2025 Governor’s Volunteer Awards

A cornerstone of the summit was the presentation of the 2025 South Carolina Governor’s Volunteer Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose selfless service has strengthened communities statewide. These honorees exemplify the spirit of giving that underpins South Carolina’s progress.

2025 Governor’s Volunteer Award Winners

• Lifetime of Service Honoree: Rev. Dr. Reginald Thackston
  A lifelong advocate for education, reentry programs, and racial reconciliation, Dr. Thackston has mentored youth and supported communities in need across South Carolina.

• Youth Volunteer of the Year: Kailani Atkinson
  As International Ambassador for Champion Autism Network, Kailani has contributed over 3,000 hours to autism awareness, accessibility, and inclusion.

• Legacy Volunteer of the Year: Peter A. Moore
  A Spartanburg Regional Hospice volunteer since 2001, Peter has led community support and fundraising to ensure compassionate care for families facing end-of-life challenges.

• Direct Service Volunteer of the Year: Dr. Pamela J. Fall
  Dr. Fall has provided critical medical services to uninsured and underserved South Carolinians, improving health outcomes statewide.

• AmeriCorps Member of the Year: Shenise Johnson-Williams
  Nominated by United Way of the Midlands, Shenise has served more than 2,500 hours helping over 200 students improve their literacy and academic success.

These awardees were recognized during a special ceremony attended by Governor Henry McMaster, nonprofit leaders, and community partners. Their stories serve as a reminder that meaningful change often starts with one person’s decision to serve.

Building Momentum: Breakout Sessions and Networking

With more than 30 breakout sessions, the summit offered nonprofit professionals practical tools and fresh perspectives. Topics included nonprofit sustainability, collaborative partnerships, equity in program delivery, and leveraging technology for social good. Attendees left with actionable strategies and a renewed sense of purpose.

Networking was another hallmark of the summit, with six hours dedicated to connecting leaders, sharing ideas, and sparking new collaborations. These interactions are vital for building the relationships and trust needed to drive collective action across the state.

Reflections and Looking Forward

As the summit concluded, participants expressed a renewed commitment to collaboration and consensus-building. The event’s focus on creating common ground echoed Martin Luther King Jr.’s assertion that “a genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.” The 2025 SC Nonprofit Summit proved that South Carolina’s nonprofit sector is ready to lead the way in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

Nonprofit leaders, volunteers, and partners returned to their organizations invigorated, equipped with new strategies and a broader network of allies. The stories shared-from keynote speakers to grassroots volunteers-highlighted the profound impact that service, leadership, and partnership can have on the state’s future.

A Catalyst for Collective Impact

The 2025 SC Nonprofit Summit in Columbia was more than a conference-it was a catalyst for change. By celebrating visionary leaders, honoring dedicated volunteers, and fostering collaboration, the summit set the stage for a new era of nonprofit impact in South Carolina. As attendees return to their communities, the lessons and inspiration gained in Columbia will continue to ripple outward, creating stronger, more connected, and more resilient communities across the Midlands and the state.