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Half a Sorrow Foundation Announces 2024 Board of Directors

2024 Board of Directors, Half a Sorrow Foundation

Greenville, SC – Half a Sorrow Foundation, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and postvention support, proudly announces its 2024 Board of Directors. Committed to advancing the Foundation’s mission of fostering life-saving connections and promoting real conversations surrounding mental health, the newly appointed directors bring diverse experiences and expertise.

The Half a Sorrow Foundation has been instrumental in providing compassionate outreach and advocacy to schools, workplaces, organizations, and communities. Through outreach, the foundation is able to address the critical need for awareness and support in combating the heartbreaking suicide epidemic.

Anna Bellew, a Greenville native, continues to serve on the board and draws from her personal experience of receiving mental health treatment during her adolescence. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Winthrop University and a master’s degree in public health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Anna’s professional background in a local mental health practice and her service on the board of the Half a Sorrow Foundation has equipped her with valuable insights to contribute to the cause.

Also joining the Half a Sorrow Board of Directors is Berdina Hill, whose extensive community counseling and career development background adds depth to the Board of Directors. Berdina’s Master’s degree in Community Counseling from Webster University and her experience as the Work-Based Learning Coordinator for the Enoree Career Center position her as a valuable asset in advancing the Foundation’s mission.

Rounding out the group is Sterling Ta’Bon from Sumter, SC, holding a master’s degree in science in public health from Campbell University. Sterling’s impressive track record in public health positions, including roles at the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Department of Mental Health’s Office of Suicide Prevention, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to improving mental health outcomes.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank all of the previous board members for getting us this far at the Half a Sorrow Foundation. With that said, I am so excited to welcome these new board members to help us reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and train people to lean into the conversation surrounding suicide,” said Dennis Gillan, Founder and Executive Director of Half a Sorrow Foundation. “Each one has a unique connection to the cause of mental health, and we look forward to their contributions.”

As the Foundation continues to spearhead initiatives to improve mental health for individuals and organizations alike, the 2024 Board of Directors stands ready to steer Half a Sorrow towards even more significant impact and outreach.

About Half a Sorrow Foundation:

Half a Sorrow Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and providing support to individuals and families affected by suicide. Founded in 2020, the Foundation is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide, offering resources and guidance while fostering a community of understanding and support. To learn more, please visit www.halfasorrow.org.

 

Engenius Launches a New Three-Part Marketing Classroom Series For The Business Community

Greenville, S.C. – Engenius, a Greenville-based web design agency, is hosting a 3-part Spring Classroom Series for business owners, marketing executives, and nonprofits to learn the biggest trends in marketing and how to implement these trends into businesses and organizations.

The first class will be held on March 28, 2024. This course will cover the top seven digital marketing trends in 2024.

“From AI and its legal ramifications to reaching an increasingly distracted audience, we’ll cover the biggest topics of the year and empower you to take that knowledge into your everyday work life,” said Chris Manley, Co-Founder and CEO of Engenius. “We’ve always been dedicated to supporting the Greenville community and are pleased to offer a new classroom series that brings our expertise to more businesses and organizations.”

Class two of Engenius’ Classroom Series on April 25 will feature the marketing side of Artificial Intelligence, copyright, legal, creative concerns, and the future of AI as it relates to marketing.

Class three of Engenius’ Classroom Series on May 16 will cover the rise of audience decentralization over the last 10 years, the ever-expanding matrix of marketing channels, and guidance on how this is drastically changing digital marketing as we know it.

Engenius has a proven track record of serving over 600 small businesses in the Upstate over the past sixteen years and has hosted over one hundred similar educational events in the past.

“We believe that people learning, growing, and shaping business together is the key to unlocking success, and we look forward to bringing back educational events to share our expertise in digital marketing and web design in this Classroom Series,” Manley states.

All classes start at 9:30 a.m., conclude at 11 a.m., and will include a course presentation, live Q&A with industry experts, refreshments, and networking for attendees. Classes are held at the University Center of Greenville, which is located at 225 S. Pleasantburg Drive in Greenville. Single class tickets are $99, and the cost for the Spring Classroom Series is $249.

To register for the Spring 2024 Classroom Series, visit https://engeniusweb.ticketleap.com/2024-engenius-spring-class-pass.

About Engenius

Engenius is a website and digital marketing agency serving businesses through design, strategy, optimization, service and support, and by driving traffic for websites. Based in Greenville, SC, Engenius has over sixteen years of experience working with hundreds of businesses and organizations to build, optimize, and support their websites. Served by a team of passionate professionals, Engenius’ clients routinely point to the company’s responsiveness, proactivity, genuine care, systems-based approach, and personable nature as the reasons they work with Engenius long-term. Learn more by visiting engeniusweb.com.

Celebrating Women in GVL —The Ultimate Girls’ Night Out A Night to Celebrate International Women’s Day

Greenville, South Carolina – Greenville Events & Social Scene™, Summit Chiropractic, and AO—The Space are thrilled to announce Celebrating Women in GVL—The Ultimate Girls’ Night Out, a spectacular event dedicated to celebrating the achievements and empowerment of women worldwide. Scheduled for March 8th, 2024 from 6PM to 9PM, this girls’ night out promises to be an evening filled with inspiration, networking, and entertainment.

This year’s event, hosted at AO—The Space located in Hollingsworth Park, will feature influential speakers, vendors, and entrepreneurs. All of them sharing their stories of triumph, resilience, and success in various industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with local members of the community, cultivate valuable friendships, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.

In addition to inspiring talks, this event will offer a diverse range of activities and experiences designed to uplift and empower women. Guests will have the opportunity to win over $5,000 in raffles and giveaways. This event is completely FREE to attend and open to all women in the upstate.

“We are excited to host Celebrating Women in GVL in honor of International Women’s Day,” said Lacey Garcia, one of the organizers and founder of Summit Chiropractic, “This event is a celebration of women’s empowerment and a testament to the incredible contributions women make to our communities, businesses, and society as a whole. We invite women of all backgrounds to join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration and empowerment.”

Tickets for Celebrating Women in GVL—The Ultimate Girls’ Night Out are available at no cost at: http://www.Greenville-Events.com/GNO. Early registration is encouraged.

For more information about this community event and to stay updated on all the details, please visit http://www.Greenville-Events.com/GNO

WebsterRogers Celebrates Laurence Fritz’s Promotion to Partner and Practice Leader

Laurence Fritz

WebsterRogers LLP (WR) proudly announces the promotion of Laurence Fritz to the position of Partner within our firm. This promotion, effective January 2024, underscores a career spanning over twelve years in the realm of public accounting, characterized by a wealth of experience in diverse sectors. Laurence’s professional portfolio includes collaboration with domestic and international enterprises, as well as those under private equity and family ownership. Notably, he has provided audit services across an array of industries including real estate, manufacturing, construction, hospitality, and retail.
A two-time graduate of The University of South Carolina’s Moore School of Business, Laurence earned a major in Accounting in 2009; complementing his earlier Finance degree earned in 2002. Additionally, Laurence earned a minor in Government and International Studies, reflecting his abiding interest in diverse cultures and extensive travel experiences.

Preceding his tenure in public accounting, Laurence served as Junior Vice President for an international cotton merchandising firm. His role as an international trading team member demanded an in-depth understanding of the derivative and international marketing environments, and necessitated global travels to England, Italy, Turkey, Taiwan, Thailand, and Indonesia for client engagements.

In 2010, Laurence joined PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC), concurrently pursuing his CPA in South Carolina. His initial three years at PwC were dedicated to audit services for publicly traded companies, followed by a transition to private company audit services in 2013. His global trajectory continued with a stint at PwC Ireland in Dublin, assuming the role of Assurance Manager for the International & Domestic Business group.

Subsequently, he earned promotion to Assurance Senior Manager in 2019. Returning to the United States in 2020, Laurence held the position of Director before joining WebsterRogers in 2023.

Beyond his professional commitments, Laurence is an active contributor to his community, serving on the boards of Spartanburg Area Conservancy (SPACE), The Advent Foundation, and The Cleveland Opportunity Foundation. Additionally, he lends his expertise as a member of the Audit Committee of the Mary Black Foundation. In his leisure time, Laurence enjoys quality time with his wife, Laura, and their three children: Eliza (11), Louise (9), and Laurence (6).

In concert with this promotion to Partner, Laurence will also serve as the Practice Leader for the Firm’s Assurance Services Group. He will stand as an integral leader among our more than 140 esteemed staff and partners. In this capacity, he will play a pivotal role in driving our firm culture and ensuring our clients around the Southeast Region receive the highest levels of value and service.

“Laurence’s diverse and global experiences immediately created value for the clients we have the privilege of serving,” said Amy Urquhart, Managing Partner of WR. “Additionally, Laurence’s leadership, progressive and strategic mindset along with his humility well positioned him for the role as ASG practice leader garnering the respect of his fellow partners and associates.”

About WebsterRogers LLP
WebsterRogers LLP is a leading South Carolina-based accounting and consulting firm that provides a broad spectrum of assurance, tax and advisory services to our clients. We lead in industry standards in our level experience and expertise, and our commitment to our surrounding local communities is paramount. With offices in eight cities across South Carolina, we are able to build local relationships and provide exceptional customer service.

Shay Felknor Joins The Midtown Office Of C. Dan Joyner, REALTORS

GREENVILLE, SC – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, REALTORS is pleased to announce that Shay Felknor has joined the company’s Midtown office as a sales associate.

Helping and getting to know people from all walks of life is Shay’s ultimate calling and her highest passion. Real estate allows Shay to combine her creativity with her desire to improve the lives of others, by finding the perfect home for her clients. As a REALTOR®, her goal is always to make sure her clients get the best value for their home, whether selling or buying. Shay is patient, skilled at negotiation, and works with a company that prioritizes integrity and superior service. At her previous brokerage, Shay was a top producer and earned the Relocation Agent of the Year award.

When not assisting clients, Shay pursues her lifelong passion in visual arts, photography, and contributes to her community through various organizations. She volunteers with the B Encouraged House in Simpsonville and is an active member of Brookwood Church.

“It is an honor to welcome Shay to our family of professionals here at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C Dan Joyner, REALTORS®. Shay is a strong force here in the upstate and has been a top producer for quite some time. I look forward to working with her and seeing her business continue to increase behind our brand,” said Matthew Thrift, Broker-In-Charge of the Midtown office.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, REALTORS
Founded in 1964 by C. Dan Joyner, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, REALTORS is the Upstate’s leading real estate company, selling more homes than any other firm in this region. The family-owned company has 8 offices and over 450 agents providing residential and commercial real estate, property management, relocation and senior services. For more information, visit www.cdanjoyner.com.

Milliken & Company Names Bethany Smith Chief Human Resources Officer

Spartanburg, S.C. — Milliken & Company is pleased to announce Bethany Smith as its Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, overseeing all HR matters on behalf of the diversified global manufacturer. Smith has served as Interim Chief Human Resources Officer since October 2023, stepping into the position upon the departure of Craig Haydamack.

“Bethany stepped up and filled a critical role on our leadership team,” shares Milliken President and CEO Halsey Cook. Over the years, Bethany has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues by demonstrating excellence and leadership in every task she takes on. She is the right person to lead Human Resources at Milliken.”

Prior to becoming Interim Chief Human Resources Officer, Smith served as Vice President of Human Resources for Milliken’s Corporate Support functions, providing strategic HR support to Milliken’s six corporate enabler functions. In this role, she was the HR business partner to the senior leaders of these functions—all while being an active participant in Milliken’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program. Other previously held roles included HR Vice President for Milliken’s Healthcare Division, HR Director for Milliken’s Textile Business and Director of Talent Acquisition and Learning and Development.

Smith began her career at Milliken in manufacturing, working in three different plants within Milliken’s Textile and Floor Covering divisions. She was part of the project team responsible for rebuilding Live Oak Plant after the 1995 fire. Although half of her career has been devoted to Milliken, Smith also spent fifteen years with MAU Workforce Solutions, providing HR support to numerous global manufacturing companies, including Milliken.

Smith is a proud engineering graduate of Clemson University. She is a board member for the Charles Lea Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and is on the advisory boards of the University of South Carolina Business Partnership Foundation and the YMCA of Spartanburg. She has held various certifications throughout her career, including Certified Personnel Consultant (National Association of Personnel Services), Korn Ferry Leadership Architect/360 and SHRBP (Human Capital Institute). Smith was appointed Chief Human Resources Officer on February 12, marking a seamless transition from her interim period to her formal acceptance of the role.

About Milliken Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, specialty chemical, flooring and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds
and inspired solutions at milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

SC Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation Receives Platinum Seal of Transparency

The SC Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation proudly announces that they have earned the 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid. Candid is a highly respected organization for measuring nonprofits’ accountability, and this designation signifies the highest level of transparency. This is the fourth consecutive year that the organization has received this honor.

“We are grateful to receive this designation for 2024,” says Amanda Herlihy, executive director. “Our board and staff work hard to ensure that the Governor’s School Foundation is transparent and maintains the highest nonprofit accountability standards. This platinum seal shows our donors that the Foundation is a responsible steward of their gifts in the pursuit of providing arts education across the state.”

The Platinum Seal of Transparency is given to organizations that maintain the highest level of responsible fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. Charities that receive this seal provide information about where their revenue comes from, where it goes, and why it matters. They also share information about the leadership, strategic goals, a commitment to diversity, and their impact across the state. This seal reconfirms that the Governor’s School Foundation is worthy of its donors’ confidence and generosity.

To view the Governor’s School Foundation’s Candid profile, visit guidestar.org. To learn more about the foundation or to make a donation, visit scgsah.org/give.

ABOUT THE SC GOVERNOR’S SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES FOUNDATION
The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities Foundation is a nonprofit organization that raises money to support the Governor’s School. The foundation uses its resources to increase access to the school for students who need financial support, aid the school’s efforts to provide arts education in under-resourced counties, and bridge the gap between state funding and the unique needs of South Carolina’s premier public arts school. Visit www.scgsah.org/give or call (864) 282-1570.

Greenville Technical College’s 360 Institute Receives National Award

The Greenville Technical College 360 Institute team — Michele Colletti, Amber Morgan, and Antionette Miles – receive an award for Most Promising Program at the National Organization for Student Success (NOSS) conference in Las Vegas, NV.

The 360 Institute at Greenville Technical College received a national award and recognition as a Program of Promise by the National Organization for Student Success at the organization’s recent conference.

Funded by a $2.1 million Title III grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the 360 Institute works to increase persistence and retention rates for first-time students, thus leading to higher graduation rates. The effort is focused on holistic student advising, addressing basic needs insecurities of students, and delivering professional development for faculty and staff centered around a culture of care.

Since The 360 Institute began in fall 2021, over 200 students have participated. During the first semester, students are enrolled in a Freshman Seminar class taught by their 360 advisor. The classes are contextualized to focus on career readiness and financial literacy in order to prepare the students for their second semester on-campus internship. In addition to the class, the students meet individually with their instructor/advisor once a month, meet with a career specialist twice during the semester, and attend financial literacy events.

GTC is working to address student basic needs insecurities by partnering with The Hope Center at Temple University. Through this two-year partnership, GTC receives coaching support from The Hope Center as well as access to a Student Basic Needs Survey. Survey data indicates that more than half of GTC’s students have experienced basic needs insecurities. As a result, the college’s Student Assistance and Resources (STAR) Center and its food pantry have moved to a larger, more prominent space on campus. The new space allows for the expansion of services as well as connecting students with community partners.

The third component of the Title III grant is to develop and enhance the college’s culture of care through employee professional development. Title III employees have facilitated five poverty simulations over the past two years. The Title III grant has also paid for employees to attend national conferences and professional development trainings focused on mental health first aid, financial literacy, poverty, and work with first-generation college students.

Women Talk Construction Honored as an Inaugural Empowering Women Awardee by SC Biz News

Greenville, SC – SC Biz News announced Women Talk Construction as one of its inaugural Empowering Women honorees, recognizing the organization’s contributions to advancing women in non-traditional roles.

The Empowering Women Awards, a new statewide initiative by SC Biz News, aims to highlight tangible and innovative efforts made by companies, nonprofits, and organizations in South Carolina to promote gender equality and empower women in the workplace and community. Honorees, including Women Talk Construction, showcase a commitment to the Empowering Women initiatives, which encompass IDM (Inclusion, Diversity, and Merit). The founders and co hosts, Christi Powell, and Angela Gardner, strive to share inspiring stories highlighting some of these topics.

As an example of their thought leadership for IDM, Christi and Angela were also named judges for the Associated Builders and Contractors National IDM awards for 2023 and 2024, as representatives of their companies 84 Lumber and Hill Electric.

Women Talk Construction, a podcast dedicated to supporting women’s growth in the construction industry and other non-traditional career paths, has demonstrated a noteworthy track record in promoting inclusivity and providing valuable insights for women in male-populated fields. This recognition reflects their commitment to empowering women and fostering collaborative conversations within the construction sector.

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette delivered the keynote address at the Empowering Women Awards Luncheon on February 20, 11:30 a.m., at the DoubleTree Hilton in Columbia. The event was an inspiring celebration of companies and organizations committed to supporting and elevating women in South Carolina. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from trailblazers, visionaries, and leaders who are making a significant impact on the region’s business landscape.

About Women Talk Construction

Based in Greenville, S.C., Women Talk Construction was created to celebrate diversity in the construction industry and other non-traditional roles and paths for women through unique stories and experiences while creating a culture of mentoring, empowering voices, and changing perspectives. For more information, visit the Women Talk Construction website and follow along on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook.

Wagner Wealth Management ‘s Osgood named to 2024 Women of Influence

GREENVILLE, SC – Jennifer Osgood, the President of Wagner Wealth Management, has been named to GSA Business Report’s 2024 Women of Influence list.

A Clemson University alum, Osgood is a licensed Wealth Advisor with more than 20 years of experience in banking and financial services. She was instrumental in the founding of Wagner Wealth Management in 2007. She was named President in 2023 after serving 10 years as managing/equity partner in the firm. In addition to overseeing the management and operations of the firm, Osgood provides financial planning and investment advisory services to individuals and business owners with complex needs.

In the community, Osgood is currently a member of the Board of Directors of A Child’s Haven in Greenville. She has previously served as Board President, Vice President, and Treasurer, as well as a member of the Advisory Council. She also served on the Board of Directors and on the Finance Committee of both Community Works in Greenville, and Foothills Alliance in Anderson for six years. Osgood is an active member of the Greenville and the Anderson Chambers of Commerce and graduated from both of their Leadership Development Programs.

In addition, she has served as the Fundraising Committee Co-Chair for the Greater Anderson Rotary Club’s signature fundraising event, Dancing for Our Heroes, for the past seven years. As one of the largest annual fundraisers in Anderson County, the event supports approximately 12 non-profit organizations and has collectively raised more than $1.5 million for the community since its inception in 2007. Osgood’s commitment to her club and this event earned her the Rotarian of the Year Award in 2019.

GSA Business Report’s 2024 Women of Influence celebrates the accomplishments of Upstate business women who are reaching amazing heights in their careers, while making a positive impact in the community.

“Jennifer’s commitment to sharing her financial knowledge and professional expertise with clients and colleagues, and her commitment to volunteering her time and skills allows her to make a substantial local civic impact,” said Dan Wagner, founder and CEO of Wagner Wealth Management. “She is a tremendous example for women in the wealth management industry who wish to serve and strengthen their community.”

About Wagner Wealth Management:

Wagner Wealth Management specializes in helping individuals and companies reach their personal and professional goals. Wagner Wealth Management currently advises on more than $1.5 billion in client assets; their experience is diverse, exceptional, and ready to work. The firm has offices in Anderson, Greenville, and Seneca. Learn more at www.wagnerwealthmanagement.com.

Securities offered through Arkadios Capital. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Wealth Management Advisors, LLC. Arkadios Capital and Wealth Management Advisors, LLC, are not affiliated through any ownership.