Kat Wawner
Make-A-Wish South Carolina has named Kat Wawner, Founder and CEO of Wawner Strategies, as Chair of the newly formed Wish Night Leadership Committee. This volunteer group will elevate the organization’s signature fundraising event, the Wish Night gala.
The Wish Night Leadership Committee is a group of community leaders and supporters dedicated to advancing Make-A-Wish South Carolina’s mission. Members will focus on securing sponsorships, fundraising, and spreading awareness, all to ensure that more life-changing wishes are granted for children with critical illnesses throughout South Carolina.
Since relocating to the Lowcountry in 2022, Wish Night has raised over $2.2 million, funding approximately 300 wishes for children in our state. The gala returns to the Wild Dunes Resort on March 14, 2026, presented by The Cox Group, with a whimsical, candy-colored theme - “A World of Pure Imagination.” Inspired by the creativity and courage of wish kids who continue to dream big, even in the face of a life-threatening illness, the evening will celebrate the hope and joy that every wish brings.
“I believe in the incredible power of hope to transform lives,” said Kat Wawner. “As a single mom to two little girls, I know how powerful it is to see the world through a child’s eyes. Wish kids remind us what resilience and joy look like in the face of challenges, and their stories inspire me daily. Leading the inaugural Wish Night Leadership Committee is a special opportunity to rally our community around these children, dream bigger together, and help ensure every eligible child in South Carolina experiences the magic of a wish.”
Wawner brings over 17 years of communications and brand strategy experience, with a proven record of leadership and community engagement. As Founder and CEO of Wawner Strategies, she has guided award-winning campaigns for clients including Sweet Grass Vodka, Edisto Gold Honey, Charleston Candle Company, and Volley Tequila Soda. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Travel + Leisure, Veranda, CNN, and People Magazine.
Recently recognized as a South Carolina Woman of Influence, Charleston Innovator of the Year, and Palmetto Proud Honoree, Wawner continues to empower women through her Lady Business initiative and her blog, Roots & Reach, which explores PR, entrepreneurship, and brand storytelling.
For more information about Wish Night 2026, visit wishnightsc.org