Board Member Spotlight

WILLIAM O'QUINN

Orangeburg’s Dr. O’Quinn: The Medicine Man

Orangeburg County School Board member Dr. William E. O'Quinn
Orangeburg County School Board member Dr. William E. O’Quinn
The longest actively serving school board member in the state

Before Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman ever stepped onto television screens as a frontier doctor defying convention, Branchville’s own Dr. William E. O’Quinn was already practicing a similar brand of medicine, bridging science with compassion, tending both bodies and communities and earning the trust of generations.

For more than five decades, he has been a steady presence in Branchville, where families often grow up under the care of the same doctor. O’Quinn has devoted his life to medicine, education and public service, bringing care, dignity and resilience to a rural South Carolina town which leans on him as much as Colorado Springs leaned on its beloved TV doctor.

“It is an honor and privilege to be able to serve my community for this length of time,” O’Quinn said. “I have a sense of satisfaction for doing this. I have seen several generations over the years and have enjoyed it.”

O’Quinn’s decision to pursue medicine came during his teenage years.
“I decided around the early high school years that I wanted to be a physician,” he said. “I was especially encouraged by an aunt of mine and also had ties to a family physician that was a friend of the family that took care of me as a child and teenager.”

O’Quinn credits his parents for instilling values which carried him through medical school and into community leadership.

“My mother had worked but was basically a stay-at-home mom. My father was dedicated to his work, and I learned my work ethics from him,” he said. “They both basically said I could follow any profession I desired. I chose medicine.”

Since 1975, O’Quinn has cared for Branchville families, offering continuity rare in modern health care. Alongside daily patient care, he has mentored physician assistants, nurse practitioners and medical students.

“I have seen how important it is to help shape future physicians into the role of a family physician,” said O’Quinn. “The tools and technologies we use to practice medicine have changed over the years but the way that we actually care for patients does not need to change. We need to have compassion for our patients and their families.”

His leadership has extended to medical organizations, including serving as president of the S.C. Academy of Family Physicians and as a board chair.

O’Quinn’s civic service began in 1981, when he successfully ran as a write-in candidate for the local school board in Orangeburg. His children were attending the same schools he once did, and he saw an opportunity to give back.

“I was encouraged by several to run and did so as a write-in candidate and was successful,” said O’Quinn. “I was not dissatisfied with the board, I just felt I could help.”

He has remained on the board through multiple consolidations, becoming the state’s longest-serving active trustee.

His fellow board members said, during the COVID-19 pandemic, his medical training proved invaluable.

“I was able to help explain things to other board members and administration when needed,” said O’Quinn.

Colleagues describe O’Quinn as genuine and steady, qualities he sees as an extension of his philosophy of service.

“I think it just proves that I try to follow the same path – students and teachers first,” O’Quinn said. “I do try to make my voice heard, but I am willing to listen to other ideas. I have always tried to work with others to resolve our problems. I try to bring (them) all together when possible.”

As for Branchville, it is more than O’Quinn’s workplace. It is home. He and his wife, both graduates of local schools, built their lives together there.

“She actually taught 4K until she retired so I had an educator at home at all times,” O’Quinn said. “Of course, all three children finished here and went on to college and graduate schools.”

Two became educators initially and one a physician. One of the original educators then decided to become a pharmacist. He takes pride in knowing two of his children returned so their children could attend the same community schools.

Over the years, O’Quinn has witnessed change in Branchville, from the decline of Main Street shops to the resilience of its community school.

“But the town is more than just stores. It is the people and the way they interact,” said O’Quinn. “It is a feeling of community. That has not changed.”

His hope is Branchville’s civic and educational traditions endure.

“We may not have the offerings of a large school, but with distance learning and other opportunities our students seem to do very well,” said O’Quinn. “I hope we continue to do so.”

NAOMI ECHOLS

Bamberg’s Eckels: The Total Package

Bamberg County School District Board of Trustees vice chair Naomi Echols
Bamberg County School District Board of Trustees vice chair Naomi Echols
A woman who moves with both a blueprint and a brushstroke

From metro Atlanta’s swirl of cultures to the grounded soil of her grandparents’ Bamberg farm, Naomi Eckels has always stood at the intersection of opposites and thrived. As vice chair of the Bamberg County School District Board of Trustees, she embodies a rare and vital blend of disciplined structure and compassionate advocacy. A logistician by training and a campaigner at heart, Eckels is a woman who strategizes with precision and dreams with boldness. Whether in the boardroom, the workplace or her blossoming backyard garden, Eckels brings the totality of her lived experience to every role she holds.

Though born in Atlanta, Eckels’ soul was shaped just as much by summers in Bamberg, S.C., under the gentle yet firm hands of her grandparents, John and Sally Mae Haynes.

“I come from a stock rooted in strength and resilience,” she said, citing her family as her first role models and compass.

From her mother’s insistence to “read anything with words on it,” to her grandparents’ lived reverence for education despite its inaccessibility in their time, Eckels’ personal narrative treats learning as a sacred inheritance.

There is a clear logistician’s streak to Eckels. With a B.S. in computer information science from Spelman and an MBA in global management, she is fluent in the language of systems. Her 13-plus years in information technology and her current role as a relationship manager have sharpened her skills in accountability, planning and strategic execution.

“I believe in doing everything to the best of my ability and always following through with what I say I am going to do,” she said.

But just beneath this structure lives a campaigner’s soul or a heart which seeks connection, possibility and joy. Eckels is a community builder, volunteer, coach and cultivator of young minds. Whether she’s leading a basketball team, nurturing seedlings on her family’s farm or mentoring a student toward purpose, she leads with a philosophy grounded in faith and generosity.

“I strongly believe in the power of education, and that every child deserves the right to receive the best education we can provide for them,” said Eckels. “I wanted to ensure that I made my best effort to fight for the children in my community to have access and opportunity for a bright future.”

Ask Eckels what keeps her centered, and her answer is unwavering. It is her faith.

“My spiritual connection has always grounded me,” she said, referencing a belief in divine timing and purpose which allows her to meet challenges with grace rather than fear.

This mindset was forged, in part, during one of the most trying periods of her life, when her son was born prematurely while she was working out of state.

“I had to grow in ways that I never imagined because I had someone who had no choice but to depend on me,” she said. “It taught me that our greatest challenges are often our greatest blessings.”

One challenge she has vowed to face is being a voice for the voiceless, especially children whose futures are often decided in rooms they don’t sit in. Her decision to run for the school board was not driven by politics, but by purpose.

“Their (parents and grandparents) steadfast commitment to learning helped me to develop a love and thirst for education, and the undeniable gift that you receive by sharing knowledge with others,” said Eckels. “I was always taught that service to others just comes with the responsibility we have as humans to participate in this life. The core value to care for and love the people around you.”

Eckels doesn’t take her title as vice chair lightly. For her, it’s a platform to ensure collaboration between educators, families and communities so the decisions reflect the lived realities of those they affect. In her world, policies are people-centered, and vision is never divorced from empathy.

Her current personal joy? Gardening. Her grandparents’ land, once farmed out of necessity, is now being revived with both tradition and innovation.

“It is a genuine thrill to learn the science of how each plant thrives,” she said. “… and to feel connected to my elders who lived and farmed the same land.”

It’s no small metaphor. Eckels is not just planting vegetables. She’s nurturing legacies in her children, her colleagues and her community.

When asked what her ideal day looks like, she said, “Relaxing in nature…whether it be a garden, at the beach or a simple walk in the park.”

Even in rest, her life speaks.

Eckels’ journey serves as a reminder one can lead structured and spontaneous, serious and soft, grounded and growing lives all at once. In a world which often demands we choose between logic and love, Eckels chooses both. And then she shows how to lead with both, too.

BETTY GARRISON

Pickens’ Garrisons: Quietly and Wholeheartedly the Order of the Palmetto

School District of Pickens County Board of Trustee member Betty Garrison
School District of Pickens County Board of Trustee member Betty Garrison

We’ve all heard the familiar refrain, “May I take your order?” or “How may I assist you?” In a restaurant or a retail store, it’s routine. But for some, these questions are more than a polite inquiry. It’s a way of life. For the School District of Pickens County Board of Trustee member Betty Garrison and her husband, Jim, servant leadership has always been the quiet, driving force behind decades of work in education, community service and family life. And now, that lifelong commitment has been honored with South Carolina’s highest civilian award – The Order of the Palmetto.

Last month, inside the Cpt. Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library in Easley, surrounded by family, community members and former students, the Garrisons received this prestigious recognition. Their response? Characteristically humble.

“We’ve never done anything for the sake of recognition,” said Betty. “But if our story inspires others to serve quietly and wholeheartedly, to look around and ask, ‘How can I help?’ then we are grateful.”

Betty’s 40-plus-year career in public education is a tapestry of purpose and people. She began as a home economics teacher at Easley High School, moved into roles as a guidance counselor, assistant principal and principal and ultimately brought her experience to the school board, where she’s served as a trustee since 2016.

“Each chapter of my career, from classroom teacher to principal to board trustee, was shaped by mentors who believed in me,” she said.

If Betty’s life has been shaped by education, Jim’s has been equally anchored in craftsmanship, teaching and heartfelt vision. A U.S. Army Reserve veteran, land planner, builder and later a teacher of building construction at the SDPC Career & Technology Center, Jim’s motto has always been, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.”

This principle guided one of the couple’s most meaningful projects: the creation of the Cpt. Kimberly Hampton Memorial Park. Located beside the Easley library, the park honors a 1994 Easley High graduate and U.S. Army pilot who was the first female pilot in American history to lose her life in combat. Hampton was killed in Iraq in 2004 when her helicopter was shot down.

After years of persistence, including collaboration with the military and securing a helicopter from Fort Rucker, where Hampton trained, the park was dedicated in 2020. Operation Dragonfly, as it became known, now stands as a powerful symbol of courage, service and community remembrance.
Married for 53 years this August, the Garrisons have long been guided by shared values of persistence, integrity and responsibility.

Their sons, Brad and Brian, along with their wives Julie and Crystal, have followed suit, raising their own children, Caden and Walker, with the same foundation.

“They’ve impacted so many, not just through official titles or roles, but through acts of quiet service,” Brad said. “From salvaging a gym floor to baking pound cakes, to helping someone get a second chance, they always found ways to say, ‘How can I help?’”

Betty has brought her firsthand knowledge of what students and teachers truly need – consistency, structure and adults who genuinely care.
Under her tenure, she’s seen transformative changes at nearly every level of public education in her district.

“While curriculum and standards change, students still need to be known, supported and believed in,” she said. “That will never change.”
When asked what her “superpower” is, Betty resists the idea. “I’ve simply been surrounded by people who care deeply about students. Any impact I’ve had is because of those teams.”

Her leadership has always been reflected in small, often unseen acts, including delivering meals to families, mentoring new administrators, supporting students in crisis and quietly helping wherever there’s a need.

Faith has also been central to their lives. Their son Brian opened the award ceremony with a prayer thanking God not for the award itself, but for lives lived in alignment with purpose and grace.

“Hopefully, one day, that makes people ask why,” he said. “And ultimately, maybe that points them to Jesus.”

State Representative Neal Collins, who nominated the Garrisons for the Order of the Palmetto, described them simply, “They are icons.”

He noted how rare it is for this honor to be awarded. In his words, “We’ll never fully know how many lives they’ve impacted. And that’s exactly how they would want it.”

Easley’s welcome sign reads, “The pride shows.”

For the Garrisons, pride isn’t about recognition. It’s about people. It’s about showing up. It’s about answering life’s most powerful question of, “How can I help?”, quietly, consistently and with a full heart.

AMANDA TAYLOR FAIRCLOTH

Amanda Taylor Faircloth: Serving Where She was Nurtured and Needed

Amanda Taylor Faircloth, vice chairperson of the Dillon School District Four Board of Trustees
Amanda Taylor Faircloth, vice chairperson of the Dillon School District Four Board of Trustees

Amanda Taylor Faircloth, vice chairperson of the Dillon School District Four Board of Trustees, hails from Dillon County, South Carolina — best known to passersby for the quirky, roadside attraction South of the Border. But for Faircloth, Dillon is more than a landmark on the I-95 corridor. It’s home and the foundation of her life’s work in education, banking and service.

Faircloth’s reflections on public education are grounded in both personal experience and broader community need. While Dillon County has drawn national attention for its educational funding disparities, Faircloth views her upbringing there with pride and gratitude.

“Dillon school district prepared me well,” she said. “We’ve always had teachers who genuinely care — not just about our grades, but about who we become.”

She was raised in the Tall Pines community near Hamer and now lives in Dillon proper. It’s a place where deep roots and close relationships form the backbone of everyday life.

“Dillon is a small town where everyone knows everyone, or at least someone in your family,” said Faircloth. “It’s a community that comes together in times of need.”

One of those needs brought Faircloth to the school board in 2019. Her mother, Ethel Taylor, had served on the board for 25 years. When Ethel passed away, the community knew exactly who should continue her legacy.

“I was hesitant at first,” Faircloth recalled. “But after praying and talking with my family, I realized what an honor it was, not just to serve, but to carry on her legacy and advocate for the children of Dillon County.”

Since joining the board, she’s led with a focus on student needs and equity, guided by her core belief that leadership means doing what’s best for all children.

“Always be respectful of others’ opinions,” she advises those seeking public office. “But be steadfast in your beliefs and focused on what matters most — the betterment of every child.”

Faircloth’s path of community service isn’t confined to education. Her banking career began by chance when someone at a bank asked if she knew anyone looking for a job. Two weeks later, she was behind the counter as a teller. Over 27 years, she’s moved through roles from personal banker to business and commercial support specialist and now serves as a financial services representative at First Citizens Bank.

“Early in life, I thought I’d become a teacher,” she said. “But the Lord had other plans.”

What’s kept her in banking isn’t the numbers. It’s the people.

“I’ve built relationships with customers who’ve become friends and family,” she said. “I’ve watched their children grow up and now I’m their banker too. That’s special.”

Helping customers find financial peace, whether solving a problem, recovering from fraud or just offering a listening ear, is deeply fulfilling for her.

Her Christian faith, she said, shapes how she serves both customers and students.

“My faith helps me be patient and kind and treat others with empathy,” Faircloth said. “Whether I’m working with a student, a parent or a customer, I always ask, ‘If this were my child or my parent, how would I want them to be treated?’”

This perspective grounds her, especially when she encounters a difficult customer or a tough board decision.

“Sometimes I question if I’m where I need to be,” she admitted. “But then someone will say, ‘I don’t know what I’d do without you,’ and I remember this is where I’m meant to be.”

And where she’s meant to be is also with her husband, Bobby — a retired South Carolina Highway Patrol trooper — and their three adult daughters: Taylor (Allen) of Lexington, Ceason (Jonah) of Ohio and  Carrie and her fiancé, Avery, of Florence.

“Visiting with our kids and seeing them happy and successful, that’s what gives me joy and peace,” she said.

She and Bobby are also traveling the state, checking off stops on their journey to become “Ultimate Outsiders” — a designation for those who visit all South Carolina state parks.

“It’s a great way to be active and appreciate the beauty of our state,” she said.

But no matter where their travels take them, the Faircloths always make it back to Dillon – to their roots.

MAGGIE JAMES

Chester’s Maggie James: Leadership Lessons from the Heart of Desegregation

Chester County School District (CCSD) Board of Trustees member Maggie James
Chester County School District (CCSD) Board of Trustees member Maggie James

CHESTER, S.C. – Chester County School District (CCSD) Board of Trustees member Maggie James likens her journey through the trauma of desegregation to the lyrics of the gospel classic How I Got Over by Mahalia Jackson, a song which speaks to the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit through faith in God.

What began in the halls of Finley Junior High School for African American students, continued through to the annals of Brockman Junior and Chester Senior high schools nearly 60 years ago, culminating in an integration which helped shape a woman of many firsts. James, the district’s longest-serving school board member, was not only the first African American woman to serve on the board, but also the first to become its chair, representing the heart of Chester’s community.

“The fact that I was able to overcome what I faced and go on to become the chair and vice chair of a school system that once devalued my education makes a profound statement about my determination to never give up,” James said.

She speaks candidly about the compassion and sense of responsibility that drive her service.

“The compassion and genuine outlook I have for all the lives that may have lasting impact by decisions of education that are made are of paramount importance to me,” she said. “The future educational endeavors of the students in this community are always foremost in my mind.”

James looks back in wonder at how her participation in the integration process conditioned her for the ridicule she would endure in public service across more than 30 years.

“The white children would make fun of our facial features—lips, eyes, noses—as well as our skin color and hair,” she said.

In June 1965, during the initial stages of integration, CCSD sent a Freedom of Choice application to every Black parent. James’ parents completed the form and mailed it back. In August, they received an acceptance letter and an invitation to attend an orientation.

James expected her classmates from Finley to be there, but quickly realized most Black parents had chosen not to send their children to the all-white Brockman Junior High School.

“My parents always ensured that my education was of paramount importance to them as well as my spiritual and social interactions,” said James. “The courageous (public) school choice my parents made that placed me on the front lines of integration was a phenomenal decision for my life and advocacy.”

James graduated from Chester Senior High School in 1970 and later earned a diploma in general business management from York Technical College.

She and her husband of 52 years, Robert Sr., have three adult children—Carmen (Anthony), McClinton, Robert K. Jr. (Janine) and Alexander C. (Teresa)—10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Beyond her board service, James worked at the Sears Catalog Store in Chester before spending 34 years in state government at the Chester County Department of Social Services. Fittingly, she held the title “Human Services Specialist.”

In a recent article marking the 69th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, James spoke about the isolation she felt during integration.

“To be treated like you weren’t human,” she said, recalling days when no one would speak to her. “The only time I saw a few other Black students was during recess or lunchtime.”

Those experiences became lessons in leadership.

“If you are a true and effective leader, you cannot isolate yourself from uncomfortable situations,” James said. “In leadership, you must posture yourself to exhibit the qualities of the position you’ve attained.”

As for what comes next, James plans to continue standing on the principles which have guided her for nearly three decades: faith, family, service and integrity.

“God has given me the stability and strength to endure—the unwavering love, support and trust of the community I represent,” which she said is enough.

JUSTIN FARNSWORTH

Dorchester Two’s Farnsworth: Principles and Vested Interest

Dorchester School District Two Board of Trustees member Justin Farnsworth
Dorchester School District Two Board of Trustees member Justin Farnsworth

In the heart of Summerville, S.C., there’s a business owner whose name is synonymous with trust, leadership and community service – Justin Farnsworth, a member of the Dorchester School District Two Board of Trustees. Not just a leader in business but a devoted advocate for education and a strong proponent of civic engagement, Farnsworth’s journey from military service to entrepreneurship is a testament to the power of personal investment in the future of others.

His story begins in a place where few would expect to find entrepreneurial roots – the U.S. Navy. Serving as a nuclear engineer aboard the USS Harry S. Truman, his responsibilities ranged from managing complex nuclear propulsion systems to training the next generation of engineers.

“This experience in the Navy not only shaped my approach to leadership and problem-solving but also instilled a strong sense of discipline and dedication that I have carried into my civilian and business life,” said Farnsworth.

He then transitioned into the world of finance, working as a Wealth Advisor and Investment Officer at First Citizens Bank. His experience in financial planning allowed him to see firsthand how important it was for individuals and families to secure their futures.

This led to him owning The Farnsworth Family Agency, an Allstate Insurance affiliate in Summerville, which he opened in Oct. 2020. Under his leadership, the agency quickly became #1 in the state of South Carolina, providing personalized insurance solutions to the community.

Farnsworth’s commitment to his customers extends beyond financial transactions; it’s about creating peace of mind, ensuring families feel secure enough to live their lives to the fullest.

“Starting a business is about more than just selling a product or service,” he said. “It’s about creating a legacy and building something that serves the community. A business is a vehicle for making a positive impact.”

Farnsworth’s dedication to service is not confined to his business. Since 2014, he has served on the Dorchester Two board, where he is an advocate for quality education. As a parent himself, he saw firsthand how crucial it is to provide students with an environment which nurtures their academic and personal growth.

“I believe education is the cornerstone of success,” said Farnsworth. “I want to be part of a system which not only prepares our students for the challenges of tomorrow but helps them grow as individuals with the skills and confidence to succeed.”

One of the most significant shifts he has experienced during his time on the board has been the transition to a single-member district system. While it promises more localized representation, it also presents new challenges, particularly around ensuring equitable resource distribution. Farnsworth is committed to navigating these challenges, always with the goal of strengthening the educational experiences of all students in the district.

Farnsworth is also deeply involved in the community, recognizing relationships are the foundation of lasting positive change. Through collaborations with local non-profits and other community organizations, he’s helped improve both the well-being of local families and the vitality of Summerville itself.

His wife, Jessica, who serves as the assistant director of Elementary Education for Dorchester Two, also plays a key role in shaping Farnsworth’s views on education and leadership.

“Jessica’s work provides me with a unique insight into the challenges faced by our schools, especially in terms of curriculum development and staff training,” he said.

Her expertise complements his, allowing him to advocate for policies which not only address the needs of students but also support the educators who guide them.

Together, Farnsworth and his wife are raising two children who continue to excel in both academics and extracurriculars. Blake is studying agricultural business at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and Zoe, is a dedicated public high school student recently inducted into the National Honor Society.

In his view, public education is a cornerstone of a thriving family and community.

“Public schools are not just about preparing students for college or careers, they’re about shaping the future of our society. Everyone benefits from an educated community,” he said.

Even those without children in public schools, he argues, have a vested interest in supporting them, as strong schools contribute to lower crime rates, higher employment and overall economic stability.

DR. WILLIE CAMPBELL

Edgefield’s Dr. Willie Campbell: From Social Worker and Mayor to Pastor and Board Member

Edgefield County School District Board of Trustees member Dr. Willie Campbell
Edgefield County School District Board of Trustees member Dr. Willie Campbell

Dr. Willie Campbell, a revered community leader and advocate, is said to embody the principles of civility and humility. Born and raised in Johnston, S.C., the Peach Capital of the World, his life story is one of resilience, service and faith. As a prominent figure on the Edgefield County School District Board of Trustees and former mayor of Johnston, Campbell’s journey suggests the values he holds dear — respect for others, equality and an unwavering moral compass.

Campbell’s perspective on life has been shaped profoundly by his upbringing. Raised by a mother and grandmother who were hardworking women, he learned the importance of respect and honor at an early age. His family instilled in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to treating everyone with dignity — values which would later define his leadership style.

“Growing up, we were taught that you do the job you’re asked to do without complaint, and you do it with a smile,” Campbell said. “We were raised to respect people, no matter their background or beliefs.”

Campbell’s childhood was also shaped by the harsh realities of segregation. He recalls a time when Black people had to remain at the bottom steps when visiting white homes and were often followed around in stores. Experiences like these left lasting scars, yet Campbell’s response to them has always been one of dignity and restraint.

“Growing up during that time was devastating,” he said, but he continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining composure in the face of adversity. His ability to stay composed, even in the most uncomfortable situations, became a defining trait in his later career.

Despite these setbacks, Campbell’s commitment to service never wavered. His history-making tenure as Johnston’s first African American mayor was not born out of a desire for personal gain but from a genuine need to advocate for all people. Reflecting on his decision to run, he shares his mother once asked him, “Are you running for mayor because you are Black, or are you running for all people?”

“I was running for equality for all people,” he said.

Through his work, he sought to lead with humility and faith, facing many challenges with the understanding that prayer and God’s guidance would see him through.

Campbell’s leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief it is always better to lead with a solid moral compass and walk with humility. Drawing inspiration from 1 Peter 5:5, he stresses the importance of being humble and submissive to one another.

“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble,” he said.

For Campbell, this passage reminds him to serve others with compassion and to encourage others to be their best selves, even when faced with personal challenges.

One of Campbell’s most enduring roles has been his service on the Edgefield County School District Board of Trustees. Motivated by encouragement from local teachers and the influence he had on students and their families, Campbell is passionate about improving public education and ensuring every child receives the guidance and support they deserve. In his work, he emphasizes the importance of respect, love and genuine care for students. His commitment to fostering a positive and respectful environment for all students stems from the same values he learned as a child.

“We must demonstrate true love and respect for the people we serve,” said Dr. Campbell.

Throughout his journey, Campbell’s family has been his pillar of support. His wife, children and siblings have stood by him through thick and thin, offering prayers and encouragement along the way.

Today, as the Pastor of Grace Deliverance, Campbell continues to serve his community, bringing people together through faith and understanding. His experience in the Department of Social Services has taught him the importance of empathy and listening, skills he applies in his current work as both a pastor and community leader.

“Hurt people hurt people,” he said, “but through love and understanding, we can bring people through their pain.”

As Campbell ponders his future, his aspirations remain rooted in community. He hopes to continue raising awareness about the needs of local cities and schools, ensuring children see role models who look like them and who have succeeded against the odds. His vision for the future is one of unity, where people of all backgrounds can come together and achieve remarkable things under God’s guidance.

SHARON WITKIN

Colleton’s Sharon Witkin: An “All-In” Advocate for Public Education Copy

Sharon Witkin, Secretary of Colleton County School District’s Board of Trustees
Sharon Witkin, Secretary of Colleton County School District’s Board of Trustees

In a world where school board members often work behind the scenes, Sharon Witkin stands out as a committed and proactive advocate for the children of Colleton County. As the secretary of Colleton County School District’s Board of Trustees, Witkin plays a vital role in shaping the direction of education in a community that is both geographically expansive and economically diverse.

Witkin’s journey to the school board began when she moved back to her hometown of Walterboro with her young children. At first, the stay-at-home mom felt uncertain about her ability to contribute to the community. However, her determination to become more involved led her to join local and regional leadership programs, which ignited her passion for public service.

“I initially felt I had little to offer, but with the encouragement of others, I realized that my background in non-profit work and my educational experiences were a good fit for serving as a school board trustee,” Witkin said.

Her role on the school board goes beyond policy decisions; it’s about fostering a positive, safe and effective learning environment for students in the district, which spans the entirety of the county. Colleton County is South Carolina’s fifth-largest county by land area and houses the 27th-largest population in the state. Within this vast landscape, Witkin represents District 3, which includes Walterboro, the county seat and its largest municipality.

The district serves a student body where 84 percent of students live in poverty. This statistic underscores the importance of the school board’s work and, particularly, Witkin’s role.

As the secretary, Witkin’s responsibilities extend beyond traditional administrative duties. She coordinates monthly board meetings, working closely with the other board officers and the district superintendent to ensure smooth operations. But her position often requires her to step into an unexpected role: that of a past president, offering guidance and perspective, especially during transitions between board officers.

“It’s an opportunity to provide continuity and share lessons learned from my previous tenure as chairman,” she said.

In recent board meetings, school safety has become a growing concern.

“The core purpose of our school district is teaching and learning, but we must first ensure a safe and positive environment for our students,” Witkin said.

The district has implemented robust safety measures, including weapons detection systems and metal detectors in secondary schools and at school events.

Additionally, the district maintains strong partnerships with local law enforcement, ensuring that school resource officers (SROs) are present at every school. Mental health support is also a priority, with guidance programs and a partnership with Coastal Empire Mental Health providing essential counseling services.

When Witkin is not attending to school board responsibilities, she is deeply involved in her family life. As a stay-at-home mom to two teenage boys, Michael and Sam, her daily schedule consists of carpooling, sports events and volunteering. She serves on various school committees, including the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) and the School Improvement Council (SIC) and is an active volunteer with her church and other community organizations.

“I am an involved parent, and this gives me a direct line to understand what’s happening within our schools. Listening to parents, students and teachers helps me advocate for policies that truly benefit the community,” she said.

Her husband, Spencer, a local dentist and small business owner, is also a staunch supporter of public education. Together, they instill in their children a sense of civic duty and the importance of community involvement, all while navigating the daily challenges of raising teenagers.

One of Witkin’s most defining moments as a school board member came when the district faced a critical funding gap. When the state mandated significant salary increases for teachers and certified staff, Colleton County’s ability to meet the funding requirements became a political battleground. Witkin was at the forefront of this fight, advocating for an increase in local tax revenue to ensure that teachers and staff would receive the compensation they deserve.

The district’s request for increased funds was ultimately denied, forcing the district to dip into its general fund reserve to cover the gap. Despite this setback, Witkin and the board have remained active in raising awareness about the importance of funding local schools. She attends county council meetings and engages with local leaders to ensure the school district is well supported.

For Sharon Witkin, being a school board member isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. As she continues to balance her roles as a mother, wife, volunteer and advocate, she remains an essential force in shaping the future of Colleton County’s schools.

QUINCY SUTTON

Swansea’s Sutton: The Builder from Happytown

Lexington School District Four Board of Trustees Chairman Quincy Sutton
Lexington School District Four Board of Trustees Chairman Quincy Sutton

Lexington School District Four Board of Trustees Chairman Quincy Sutton is a builder. He’s a builder of consensus, of congregants, family and community. From his roots in Happytown in Gaston, S.C. to his home in Swansea, S.C. Sutton is known for forming, developing and nurturing the people and things around him, both figuratively and literally. His more than five-year service on the school board has been no different.

“I felt that if I was going to live and raise a family in this community that I had to be ‘All In’. So, I’m committed to making sure that not only our children, but all Lexington Four children have the best education and experience that we can afford them,” said Sutton. 

I plan to run and be a part of our school board as long as I’m able to serve.”

He attributes their board’s collegiality and cohesiveness to their ability to “agree to disagree” with grace.

“I believe that a unified front is important when serving as a board member,” said Sutton, who likens board service to family dynamics. “There are things that my wife and I may see differently, but when we speak to our children, we present it with unity and togetherness. We work the details out on our own time behind closed doors.” 

Sutton said his family has resided in the greater Lexington County area for more than a century. 

“I love being from the Swansea/Gaston area. There is no place like home and that is why I’m fully committed to the betterment of my area,” he said.

Sutton is employed as a representative/liaison for the Customer Care Department of the City of Orangeburg’s Department of Public Utilities Administrative Division. 

“I truly enjoy solving problems and assisting customers with issues regarding financial indigence,” he said. “I also enjoy assisting with families and individuals who are acquiring or building new homes.  

One of the great things about what I do is we are the first to find out about and assist with new businesses and projects that are coming to the Greater Orangeburg area.”  

In addition to these duties, Sutton is the senior pastor of New Life Ministries in Swansea, S.C., the job qualifications of which he feels closely align with board service.

“Pastoring and being on the school board both require humility, stability, an open mind and a servant’s heart,” said Sutton. “As our world changes and as our communities grow, we have to be open, accepting and compassionate to those we serve. These characteristics are important as I serve in both capacities.”

Sutton is the son of Bishop Cardell and Dr. Carolyn Sutton, who founded the church he pastors in the late 80s. He is a fourth-generation preacher and his wife, Cassandra, represents the third generation who have followed the ministry path. Sutton said it was very important to marry someone whose values aligned with his.

“Marriage, raising children and life itself present enough challenges,” said Sutton. “We believe ‘doing life’ with someone who holds the same morals, values and standards (makes) things much easier.”

One of his most profound undertakings as a builder has been the establishment of his business – Q- Concepts Design & Consultants. He started the company after assisting several families and friends through the process of purchasing or building new homes. Sutton works with contractors and individuals on project design and construction management for new homes and remodels.

As for family, Sutton and his wife of 17 years have three children – Quincy Cardell II, Rachel Caroline and Elva Queenslei. Cassandra is employed by Lexington Four.

QUEENIE BOYD

Lee County’s Queenie Boyd: A legacy of good and grace

Lee County School District Board of Trustees member Queenie Boyd
Lee County School District Board of Trustees member Queenie Boyd

One longtime member of the Lee County School District’s Board of Trustees most often answers to “mama” in education circles and among her fellow school board members throughout the state. The most accurate description of her might be her first name – Queenie. 

For the past 36 years, Queenie M. Boyd has served her local school board with stately distinction as both chairperson and vice chairperson. Boyd served so well, she was elected Region 6 Director on the South Carolina School Boards Association’s (SCSBA) Board of Directors in 2006, representing Chesterfield, Darlington, Kershaw, Lee and Marlboro counties.

She entered the executive board rotation some time later and became president of the Association in 2017. 

“It (serving on the state board) gave me a little more knowledge about what boards are to be throughout,” said Boyd. “So many times on the local board, we think it’s just this, but when you have the opportunity to go from one board status to another board status and even to national, it (is) a plus to me.”

Boyd said she always brought back nuggets of board governance strategies to share with her local board, many of which they still employ today.

The stimulus of her service as a school board member and her lifetime commitment to every sector of her place of residence, Lee County, has perhaps been her God-first mantra. Reared by her great-grandparents in the same place where she now serves, Boyd says her passion for community organizing and engagement originates from home. Growing up on the farm was void of much, said Boyd, but there was one thing which was ever present, without a doubt – love. 

“Being raised by them as great-grandparents, the expectation was that you’re going to do good, You’ve got to do good,” said Boyd.

Doing good to her great-grandparents meant making a positive impact on the well-being of the citizenry by showing forth love and respect for all people, said Boyd.

An employee of REXAM Beverage Cans for 34 years, an accomplished coalition-builder and community leader in Lee County, Boyd has worked to bridge gaps between the education, faith and government sectors for decades. It is common for education meetings to be held at Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church where she is a member, or at any other church with which she is closely connected within the county. It is also common to find the faith-based community volunteering in the educational system and in government, oftentimes at the request of Boyd.

“Your whole heart has to be in it,” said Boyd of her board and community service. “I’ve got to speak for these children. I’ve got to make sure that parents understand … (we are) advocates.”

A self-avowed bashful person, Boyd says she is naturally quiet and a contemplative listener.

“I can open up, but if you notice at board meetings, I don’t say a lot because I am taking in and learning,” Boyd said. “But, you have a right and are supposed to ask questions.”

The question she is being asked most these days is why she has decided not to run for re-election. After 36 years, Boyd’s service ended in November, while her legacy lives on in her community and leaps forth through her offspring.

She and her husband, Alexander, who served on city council and as mayor of Bishopville for nearly a decade have four children – one is a principal, one an engineer, one is in business and the other is a pharmacist.

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