SC Chamber announces 2019 Business Leader, Public Servant, and Sgt. William Jasper Freedom Award Winners
October 3, 2019
Awards will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Summit in November
The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce announced the honorees for the 2019 Business Leader of the Year, Public Servant of the Year and the Sgt William Jasper Freedom Awards.
- Public Servant of the Year – Dr. Harris Pastides, Former President, University of South Carolina
- Business Leader of the Year – Mr. Joseph Blanchard, President, Blanchard Machinery Company
- Sgt William Jasper Freedom Award – The Honorable Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator – South Carolina
The South Carolina Chamber’s Public Servant of the Year award recognizes an individual who has served, or currently serves, as a key official in state government and has contributed to the overall well-being and health of the state as a whole.
“Dr. Harris Pastides has grown the public profile of the University of South Carolina system enormously over the last decade. During his tenure, USC rose in the rankings, increased research funding, oversaw a successful $1 billion campaign, and awarded thousands of degrees to South Carolina students. For his 10 years of dedication to developing the state’s flagship university and the students who become part of our future workforce, I can think of no better 2019 Public Servant of the Year than Dr. Pastides,” said Ted Pitts, President and CEO of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.
The South Carolina Chamber’s Business Leader of the Year is chosen based on leadership in South Carolina and the embodiment of personal success. Other criteria include a business record based on ethical conduct and corporate responsibility, public service, contributions to the preservation of South Carolina’s government and commitment to creating a positive business climate to improve the state’s economy.
“Joe Blanchard is truly deserving of being awarded the Chamber’s 2019 Business Leader of the Year. Joe has led unprecedented growth at Blanchard Machinery and been a leader in giving back to his community. His leadership and approach to business is an example for other business leaders across the Palmetto State to try to emulate.” said Pitts.
The SC Chamber’s Sgt. William Jasper Freedom award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the freedom of South Carolina and the nation.
“It is an honor to present Senator Graham with this year’s Sgt. William Jasper Freedom Award. Senator Graham is a true public servant. Few public servants have sacrificed and demonstrated their commitment to our country. Senator Graham is a defender of freedom and represents the principles this great nation was founded on. The business community is thrilled to recognize him for his service to our state and country.” said Pitts.
The 2019 award winners will be honored at the 40th South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Annual Summit at Isle of Palms on November 20-21.
For more information about The Annual Summit, click here.
