Forest Acres invests in leadership as City Administrator Shaun Greenwood completes Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education program

As Forest Acres continues to experience significant growth, transformative redevelopment, and statewide recognition as one of South Carolina’s most desirable communities, City leaders remain focused on investing in the leadership needed to guide the city through its next chapter. That commitment recently brought City Administrator Shaun Greenwood to Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education, where he completed the prestigious Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program alongside elected officials, city and county managers, public safety leaders, and government executives from across the United States and around the world.

The program focused on leadership, governance, crisis management, conflict resolution, and organizational effectiveness, bringing together participants from communities across the nation as well as countries including Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Ecuador. Discussions featured internationally recognized experts and leaders who shared lessons from navigating global conflicts, public crises, organizational change, and complex policy challenges.

Mayor Thomas Andrews said communities must continually invest in leadership if they expect to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
“Communities do not become exceptional by standing still,” said Andrews. “They become exceptional when leaders are willing to learn, adapt, and prepare for what lies ahead. As Forest Acres continues to attract new residents, businesses, and investment, we have a responsibility to ensure our leadership is prepared not only for today’s challenges, but for tomorrow’s opportunities.”

Mayor Pro Tem Haskell Kibler said the City Council views professional development as an investment in the community’s future.

“The decisions made today will shape Forest Acres for generations,” said Kibler. “Whether we’re overseeing transformative projects, expanding public amenities, or planning for future growth, strong leadership matters.”

Greenwood, who holds a Master of Public Administration degree and has spent more than two decades in local government leadership, has served as Forest Acres City Administrator since 2017. He oversees the City’s day-to-day operations, strategic initiatives, capital projects, budgeting, personnel management, and economic development efforts.

Greenwood’s leadership has helped shape some of the most significant initiatives in the city’s history. In 2020, he placed a cold call to Southeastern Development that helped launch discussions surrounding the redevelopment of Richland Mall—now the largest economic development project in Forest Acres’ history. Six years later, the former mall has been demolished, construction is underway on a more than $100 million mixed-use development, and the city’s landmark six-acre park and amphitheater are expected to open within the next 18 months.
The experience at Harvard reinforces Forest Acres’ commitment to preparing today’s leaders for tomorrow’s opportunities as the city continues to grow, invest, and build for the future.

About the City of Forest Acres

The City of Forest Acres is a vibrant community of approximately 10,500 residents located in the heart of the Midlands of South Carolina. Known for its award-winning parks, premier shopping and dining destinations, strong neighborhoods, and exceptional quality of life, Forest Acres continues to be recognized as one of the region’s most desirable places to live, work, and do business.