The Lowcountry Literacy Project is proud to announce that long-time literacy advocate and community leader Fran Hawk has been named a recipient of the 2026 South Carolina Governor’s Volunteer Awards. Hawk was recognized with the Legacy Award, a distinction reserved for individuals whose lifetime of service has left a permanent, transformative mark on the Palmetto State.
The Governor’s Volunteer Awards, presented in partnership with Together SC, celebrate the remarkable South Carolinians who dedicate their time and talent to strengthening their communities. Seeing Hawk receive the award was a highlight for the Lowcountry Literacy Project, which nominated her for her unwavering commitment to local families.
““Fran’s impact on education in Charleston is extraordinary. For the Lowcountry Literacy Project, her advocacy has meant more than we can put into words,” said Lindsey Ballenger, Executive Director, Lowcountry Literacy Project. “She believed in this work early, championed it consistently, and helped open doors so that teachers have the tools to reach every child. But more than any title or accomplishment, it’s her spirit that leaves the deepest mark. Fran leads with warmth, speaks with encouragement, and carries an unshakable belief in people. She sees potential, calls it out, and helps others rise to meet it. That is her legacy—and it will continue to ripple through every school and every classroom in our community..”
Fran Hawk’s impact spans decades and reaches into nearly every corner of the Charleston community. As a former school librarian and Vice Chairman of the Charleston County School Board, she has been a tireless champion for students. Her literary contributions are equally significant; as the author of three books, including 10 Tips for Raising Readers and The Hunley, she has spent her career making reading accessible and exciting. For many years, she also authored a weekly children’s book column in The Post and Courier, a resource so beloved that local residents still share clippings of her recommendations today.
Beyond her work with books, Hawk has been a pioneer in educational and social programming. She was instrumental in starting the Cities in Schools program (now Communities in Schools) and served as the Chairman of Business and Education at the Chamber of Commerce, where she helped local businesses sponsor schools. Her commitment to child development led her to launch the "I’m Special" self esteem program through the Junior League and establish the JBE Grands group. Even outside the educational sphere, her leadership has been felt as the Chairman of the Charleston County Substance Abuse Commission and as a devoted leader at First Scots Presbyterian Church, where she has served as a deacon, elder, and VBS teacher for decades.