In an effort to bridge the racial divide in their communities, “Envision Williamston” will produce a community-wide talent show hosted by the Caroline Community Center, a space that was historically used as a school for black children in Williamston. Envision Williamston looks forward to creating an annual tradition that will bring together individuals of all backgrounds for an evening of family fun!

The Girl Scouts of SC (Mountains to Midlands) are excited to hold a “Bridging Ceremony” at Bridgeway Station this year! This time honored tradition celebrates girl scouts as they graduate and move into their next season of life. This ceremony will feature a crossing of the bridge at Bridgeway Station, a live stream for friends and family unable to attend, and an unforgettable atmosphere for the girl scouts being honored. 

Former Representative Anne J. Thayer is this year’s recipient of the Burdette Leadership Award, and award given in recognition of outstanding female leaders in our region. For 14 years, Anne served the citizens of Anderson County’s District 9 in the SC House of Representatives. A deeply involved community leader, Anne embodies the spirit of regional and local collaboration. She has served on countless boards including Anderson Interfaith Ministries and is a volunteer coordinator for T.L. Hanna High School.  We are honored and fortunate to serve alongside her in the Upstate!

This year’s Welling Award for Regional Collaboration was presented to BMW Manufacturing, received by Max Metcalf. Employing over 11,000 people at their 8 million square foot campus, BMW has been a mainstay of collaboration in our Upstate region for 30 years. In the past 20 years, they have provided more than $40 million to support various civic, cultural, and educational programs. We look forward to the next 30 years, and are thankful for their dedication to cross-regional collaboration and support!