GREENVILLE - Make-A-Wish South Carolina is pleased to announce the promotion of Shannon Rice to Director of Signature Events, a leadership role that will help advance the strategic vision and growth of the chapter's premier fundraising events and peer-to-peer programs.
In her new role, Rice will oversee the strategic direction of Make-A-Wish South Carolina's signature events portfolio, including Trailblaze Challenge, W.I.S.H. (Women Inspiring Strength and Hope) Society, the Youth Leadership Council and Wish Night. Her leadership will help strengthen the chapter's ability to engage supporters, raise critical funds, and grant more life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
"Shannon has consistently demonstrated the vision, leadership and passion needed to elevate our mission," said Misty Farmer, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish South Carolina. "Her ability to build meaningful relationships, inspire supporters and drive results has made a lasting impact on our chapter. We are excited to see her expand that impact as she leads the future growth of our signature events and fundraising programs."
Rice joined Make-A-Wish South Carolina nearly five years ago and has played a key role in strengthening the organization's fundraising and community engagement efforts. Under Rice's leadership, the Wish Night gala has grown into the chapter's largest fundraising event, raising more than $1.2 million this year and earning recognition as Charleston's Best Fundraising Event in the Charleston City Paper's 2026 Best of Charleston Awards. She also leads the Lowcountry's W.I.S.H. Society, coaching and empowering women leaders to champion the Make-A-Wish mission while raising funds to help grant wishes throughout the state.
Prior to joining Make-A-Wish South Carolina, Rice held leadership roles with several nonprofit organizations, including the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, March of Dimes and MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Her expertise has earned recognition across the nonprofit sector, leading to invitations to present webinars, participate in podcasts and share fundraising best practices with professionals nationwide.
“Shannon's expertise in event strategy and peer-to-peer fundraising has helped transform some of our most important fundraising programs," said Amanda Osborne, Chief Development Officer of Make-A-Wish South Carolina. "From growing Wish Night into a record-breaking event to strengthening the reach of W.I.S.H. Society, she has a remarkable ability to connect people to our mission and inspire generous support for wish kids. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue working toward our vision of granting the wish of every eligible child."