Mayor Knox White awarded the Order of the Palmetto

Celebrating three decades of transformative leadership, Gov. Henry McMaster awarded Mayor Knox White the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. The recognition came during the dedication ceremony for the Thomas and Vivian A. Wong Honor Tower at Unity Park. It was a historic moment for the city and its longest-serving mayor, whose tenure has reshaped Greenville into a nationally recognized model of urban revitalization.

“Under his leadership, this place is an absolute masterpiece,” Gov. McMaster said of Greenville. “It’s not just given for success in your profession… it’s for your extensive support and service.”

Mayor White, who took office in 1995, was instrumental in leading Greenville through a renaissance that transformed downtown into a vibrant cultural and economic hub. White prioritized economic development through public-private partnerships and mixed-use projects that combined residential, retail and office components.

During his tenure, he fought to remove the Camperdown Bridge, revealing Reedy River Falls, and to construct Falls Park. White focused on expanding public green spaces like the 60-acre Unity Park. He championed pedestrian-friendly infrastructure with a focus on neighborhood sidewalks. He fostered growth in arts, culture and innovation with support for the Peace Center for Performing Arts and Fluor Field.

“Nobody is more aware than I am that it takes everyone in a special place called Greenville to make these things possible,” White said. “It’s just incredible to see it, to be on a journey like this with so many people and believe something for future generations of Greenville.”

The Order of the Palmetto is awarded at the governor’s discretion to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary lifetime achievement and service to South Carolina. Gov. McMaster praised White’s “visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the people of Greenville,” noting that his legacy will continue to shape the city for generations.