Dorchester Two’s Farnsworth: Principles and Vested Interest
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.