A Decade of Vision: Fountain Inn Chamber Celebrates CEO Marnie Schwartz-Hanley’s 10th Anniversary

The Fountain Inn Chamber of Commerce is marking a major milestone this month, but it isn’t for a new building or a ribbon-cutting. Instead, the business community is rallying to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its President and CEO, Marnie Schwartz-Hanley.

Since taking the helm in 2016, Schwartz-Hanley has been a driving force behind the transformation of Fountain Inn’s business district, navigating the city through a decade of unprecedented growth while fiercely protecting its small-town character.

From Small Town to Regional Player

When Schwartz-Hanley first stepped into the role a decade ago, Fountain Inn was often overshadowed by its larger neighbors in the Upstate. Today, thanks in large part to her “people-first” approach to economic development, the city is recognized as a premier destination for both small businesses and major industry.

Under her leadership, the Chamber has seen a significant increase in membership and the launch of several signature initiatives, including the revitalization of the Downtown Main Street corridor and the successful expansion of the city’s annual festival lineup.

A Champion for Small Business

Colleagues and local business owners often point to Schwartz-Hanley’s accessibility as her greatest strength. Whether she is helping a new boutique navigate local zoning or advocating for regional infrastructure improvements at the state level, her focus has remained consistent: making Fountain Inn a place where entrepreneurs can thrive.

Ten years ago, we were a quiet town with a lot of potential, said one long-time Board member. Marnie didn’t just see that potential; she built the framework to realize it. She has an uncanny ability to connect people and resources in a way that benefits the entire Golden Strip.

Milestones of the Last Decade

• Strategic Growth: Overseeing the Chamber during the opening of major local hubs like The Mill at Fountain Inn.

• Advocacy: Representing Fountain Inn interests within the South Carolina Association of Chambers of Commerce.

• Resilience: Successfully guiding the local business community through the economic challenges of the early 2020s, ensuring that Main Street remained vibrant and occupied.

• Innovation: Introducing digital tools and modern networking strategies to help local “mom-and-pop” shops compete in a global market.

Looking Toward the Future

The 10-year anniversary comes at a busy time for the Chamber, which is currently preparing for its 2026 Annual Membership Luncheon on April 17. While Schwartz-Hanley is often the one holding the scissors at others’ ribbon-cuttings, the upcoming luncheon is expected to include a special tribute to her decade of service.

For Schwartz-Hanley, the milestone is less about looking back and more about the road ahead. She continues to emphasize the importance of succession planning and sustainable growth, ensuring the Chamber remains a “chamber of one” that punches well above its weight class for years to come.