Queen Quet of St. Helena Island appointed to Gov. McMaster’s Conservation Commission
October 29, 2026
Queen Quet, chieftess and head-of-state of the Gullah/Geechee Nation, has been appointed to Gov. Henry McMaster’s newly established Governor’s Conservation Commission, bringing the voice of the Lowcountry’s Gullah/Geechee community to a statewide effort focused on conservation, cultural preservation and responsible growth.
Queen Quet, whose given name is Marquetta L. Goodwine, is a longtime advocate for protecting Gullah/Geechee culture, ancestral lands and coastal environments. She is the founder of the Gullah/Geechee Sea Island Coalition, an organization dedicated to preserving the culture, history, language and land of Gullah/Geechee people throughout the Sea Islands.
Queen Quet has worked for decades to bring attention to the relationship between environmental protection and cultural preservation. Her advocacy has included efforts to protect coastal resources, address environmental justice concerns and ensure Gullah/Geechee communities have a voice in decisions affecting their homeland.
Her work has reached national and international audiences. She was the first Gullah/Geechee person to speak on behalf of her people before the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, and has participated in international discussions on human rights, climate change and environmental sustainability. In 2021, McMaster presented her with the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, recognizing her contributions to the state and the preservation of Gullah/Geechee culture.
McMaster announced 25 appointments to the commission on Oct. 27. The appointees represent private, academic and other sectors and will serve alongside ex officio members, including state agency leaders. To see all 25 appointees, visit the governor’s website.
“The Commission is uniquely talented and organized to bring broad insight and valuable guidance to matters of growth, conservation, and preservation,” McMaster said.
Created by Executive Order 2026-24, the Governor’s Conservation Commission will advise the governor and executive branch on conservation and preservation strategies, promote coordination among state and local agencies, and help local governments establish conservation goals.
The Commission will also work to increase public awareness of South Carolina’s history and culture, identify potential funding sources, and encourage partnerships among public, private, academic, and nonprofit organizations.
