Jim Newsome receives SCEDA Distinguished Service Award
May 9, 2022
The South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association (SCEDA) awarded outgoing President and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority, Jim Newsome, its Distinguished Service Award during the 2022 SCEDA Annual Conference held May 4-6 at the Sonesta Resort in Hilton Head.
The SCEDA Distinguished Service Award recognizes exemplary efforts in the fields of professional, economic and community development in South Carolina. Newsome was honored in recognition of his prestigious career in the maritime industry.
Newsome started his career with the South Carolina Ports Authority in 2009 as the fifth leader in the history of the organization.
Deepal Eliatamby, PE, SCCED, President of Alliance Consulting Engineers, Inc. says he nominated Newsome for the award due to the significant shift in the trajectory of success he’s witnessed at the SC Ports Authority under Newsome’s leadership.
“During his time at the Port, Jim has recruited and groomed individuals who will help carry the legacy he started – a true trait of a great leader,” Eliatamby said.
“I always say that culture is a journey, not a destination. It is an honor to be a part of an organization that feels the same,” said Newsome. “It is important that we never rest on our laurels and continue to push forward and do good work.”
During his tenure, Newsome significantly enhanced port operations, grew the port’s cargo base with strategic investments, doubled cargo volumes, and successfully undertook vital infrastructure projects, including the deepening of the Charleston Harbor to 52 feet, which once complete, will be the deepest port on the East Coast capable of harboring some of the world’s largest ships.
About SCEDA
Since 1965, the South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association has served as the Voice of Economic Development in the Palmetto State. A professional trade association of more than 580 members, with representation from all 46 counties, SCEDA includes local and regional economic developers, as well as officials from municipal, county and state government agencies, construction and engineering firms, utility companies, attorneys, consultants, financial institutions, and higher education. To learn more, visit www.SCEDA.org.
