Senator Nikki Setzler Recognized as Legislator of the Year by the YMCA
October 29, 2014
COLUMBIA, SC – Leaders from the YMCA of the USA and Ys across the state of South Carolina gathered in Columbia, S.C. on Oct. 21, 2014 for the 6th annual SC Alliance of YMCAs Leaders Conference and Public Policy Awards Dinner, where Senator Nikki Setzler was recognized with the Legislator of the Year Award.
This award is given annually to a member of the South Carolina Legislature who embodies the core values of the YMCA – caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith – and who exhibits untiring dedication and support of the YMCA mission, through their words, actions and attitude toward others.
Senator Setzler has been a longtime member of the YMCA of Columbia Board of Directors, and a member of the YMCA of Columbia for even longer.
“The YMCA of Columbia proudly nominated Senator Setzler for the Legislator of the Year Award,” said Vance Bettis, President of the YMCA of Columbia Board of Directors. “He has been instrumental in supporting the Y in countless ways, including helping us navigate the sometimes difficult task of managing a full-service camp.”
The Senator has helped raise funds for the YMCA’s Annual Campaign, which provides scholarships and financial assistance to those in our community who need it most. The Annual Campaign makes it possible for the YMCA to live by its mission never to turn anyone away due to inability to pay. He also served on the capital campaign steering committee to expand the Y’s presence in Northeast Columbia with the construction of the Jeep Rogers Family YMCA at Lake Carolina in 2007.
Senator Setzler has served in the South Carolina Senate since 1977. Since that time, he has been recognized by more than 40 organizations honoring his service and dedication to South Carolina – primarily in the field of education. He was a strong supporter of the Student Health and Fitness Act of 2005, legislation that set the groundwork for healthy eating and physical education for grades K-5.
Previous winners of the YMCA’s Legislator of the Year Award include Senator Wes Hayes, Representative Jenny Horne, Representative Phil Owens and Senator Gerald Malloy.
About the YMCA of Columbia
Over the past century and a half, the YMCA of Columbia has been a community-transforming institution, not only in the Midlands, but in the entire United States. The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Regardless of age, income or background – the Y works to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. The Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. Please visit www.columbiaymca.orgfor more information.
About the SC Alliance of YMCAs
The South Carolina Alliance of YMCAs represents the interests and concerns of 21 independent YMCA Associations throughout the Palmetto State. As a grassroots-driven and governed organization, SCYMCAs advocates and educates on behalf of the Y and its mission to promote youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The South Carolina Alliance of YMCAs works to foster statewide communication and cooperation among all 50 Ys, thus increasing reach and impact. Please visit www.scymcas.org for more information.
