The Post and Courier announces the honorees of the 5th annual 12 Black Leaders to Know in South Carolina project, presented by Huntington Bank. Launching during Black History Month, the program celebrates individuals who are making extraordinary contributions to their communities and shaping the future of the state.
The honorees will be featured in a special statewide print publication on Sunday, February 16, 2025, in The Post and Courier and 14 other Evening Post Publishing newspapers across the state. In addition, video interviews will be released monthly spotlighting each. Stories and videos will publish at postandcourier.com/BlackHistory along with an archive of 48 other past Black Leaders honorees from the past four years.
The 12 Black Leaders to Know in South Carolina honorees for honoree are:
• Dr. Youlanda Gibbs, Palmetto Palace
• Alana Jenkins, Sea Islands Heritage Academy
• Leroy Jeter, Highland Neighborhood Association
• KJ Kearney, Black Food Fridays
• Craig King, Columbia College
• Maya Morant, Georgetown County
• Jauntavia Padgett, BVD Solutions
• Dr. Al M. Panu, USC – Beaufort
• Keyatta Priester, Aiken Electric Cooperative
• Beth Ruffin, The Everyday Inclusionist
• David White, The Dropping Pin
"These twelve leaders represent the best of South Carolina - individuals who are working tirelessly to create positive change in their communities," said senior editor Adam Parker. "Their stories reflect both the progress we've made and the work that still lies ahead in building a more equitable future for all South Carolinians."
Honorees will be celebrated at a recognition luncheon on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston, SC. Dr. Henry Tisdale, former president of Claflin University, will deliver the keynote address. To purchase tickets, visit postandcourier.com/12BlackLeaders.
