Past Rotary International Vice President awarded the Order of the Palmetto

Dr. Anne L. Matthews, a distinguished educator, published author, accreditation commissioner, and public speaker, has been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, by Governor Henry McMaster. The presentation was held on August 20, 2025, in the Governor’s Office at the State House.

Dr. Matthews is a member of the Rotary Club of Columbia East, the first woman to serve as Governor of Rotary District 7770, and the first woman to serve as Vice President of Rotary International. A respected business educator and leader, she holds three academic degrees and has addressed educators in all 50 states as well as in Russia and India.

Her lifelong commitment to service and humanitarian initiatives spans more than 70 countries, including active participation in polio eradication efforts in India. She has contributed her leadership to numerous boards and organizations, among them the American Cancer Society, Rise Against Hunger International, Rotarians for Family Health, Delta Pi Epsilon Research Foundation, Harvest Hope Food Bank, the Governor’s School for Science and Math, Columbia Museum of Art, Historic Columbia Foundation, the University of South Caroliniana Society, the Veterans Hospital, Phi Beta Lambda, and the Palmetto Club.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Matthews has received many honors and awards, yet she regards the Order of the Palmetto as one of the most meaningful recognitions of her lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Johnny Deal w/Bowtie Photography