Municipal Association of South Carolina

Miriam came to the Association in 1985 and served as the deputy executive director for 10 years before becoming the organization’s fifth executive director in October 2008. During her time at the Association, Miriam has been involved in the development of every major Association program including comprehensive training programs for elected officials and municipal staff, a nationally recognized technology partnership and a successful program that collects three types of business license taxes owed to cities and towns. Before joining the Association, Miriam worked in economic development for two years with the Upper Savannah Council of Governments. She earned both a bachelor's degree in recreation and parks administration and a master's in agricultural economics with an emphasis in resource and regional economics from Clemson University.

Eric joined the Association in 2010. he serves as deputy executive director and oversees the Association's affiliate groups, Main Street SC, field services and training programs. Previously, he served for 21 years as chief administrative officer in three South Carolina cities - Ridgeland, Walterboro and Newberry. During his tenure as a city manager, Eric served on the Association's board of directors as well as the board of trustees for the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund and SC Local Government Assurance Group programs.

 

Eric has a bachelor's degree in urban studies from the College of Charleston and a master's in public administration from the University of South Carolina and the College of Charleston.  Additionally, he holds a credentialed manager's designation from the International City/County Management Association and served as president of the South Carolina City and County Management Association in 2004.

Reba joined the Association in 2005 and became deputy executive director in October 2008. She oversees the Association's advocacy and communication programs. Reba has more than 20 years of experience in government relations, communications, management and policy development in South Carolina and Washington, DC. Before coming to the Association, Reba spent 10 years in public television as a vice president at South Carolina ETV, served as executive director of the Foundation at the SC Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics, and worked for elected officials at the State House and on Capitol Hill. A graduate of USC, Reba joined the Association as director of advocacy and communications with responsibility for government relations, communications, research and technical assistance programs.

With the Association since 1988, Mary manages communications projects for the Association including the Association's Web site. Mary also writes and designs newsletters, brochures and other publications to communicate the goals and mission of the Association, as well as its affiliates. She is a journalism-public relations graduate of the University of South Carolina and has achieved the international designation of Accredited in Public Relations. She worked briefly as a downtown development manager in Denmark, SC prior to joining the Association staff.

With 13 years experience in information technology, Virginia joined the Association in June, 2006. Virginia is responsible for recommending, implementing and overseeing the use and maintenance of systems that improve the association’s operations and delivery of services to member cities. Virginia holds a bachelor’s degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a certified Project Management Professional with the Project Management Institute. She achieved the designation of Certified Government Chief Information Officer in 2009 through the SC Local Government Information Technology Education and Certification Program.

Melissa joined the Association's communications and advocacy department in 2007 and provides research and technical assistance to the lobbying efforts and to municipalities. Melissa attended Mary Baldwin College, earned a bachelor's degree in history and a master's in business administration from USC. She has more than 16 years of state government experience with the Budget and Control Board.

Marisa joined the Association in 2007. She supports the SC Community Development Association, the SC Municipal Attorneys Association, the SC Municipal Human Resources Association and the SC Municipal Court Administration Association. She formerly worked in Frederick, Maryland, as an administrative coordinator for the Diesel Technology Forum, a non-profit association promoting the benefits of clean diesel fuel and technology. Marisa earned a bachelor's degree in Russian language and literature and a master’s in environmental management from the University of Maryland.

Ashley joined the Association in 2007. She attended the University of South Carolina where she earned her bachelor's degree in English with a focus on writing. Ashley provides administrative support to the Advocacy and Communications Department and contributes to the department's projects and publications.

As manager of Risk and Safety Services, Phil provides risk management and safety technical assistance to members of the SC Municipal Insurance Trust and the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund, two of the Association's insurance programs. He joined the staff in 1990 having served as the town manager of Port Royal and town administrator of Ridgeland. Phil has a bachelor's degree in history from the University of South Carolina and a master's in public administration from the University of South Carolina and College of Charleston. He has also received an associate degree in risk management for public entities.

Before joining the Association in 2002, Thomas worked with the Continuing Legal Education Division of the S.C. Bar in data entry, invoice production and meeting reporting. He provides accounts receivable and other administrative support to the Finance department.

Krystal joined the Association in December 2000. She manages all technology operations for the Association which includes planning, implementing, and maintaining all voice, data and network computer systems. She also provides technical assistance to the Association staff. Krystal has an associate degree in computer technology with a major in telecommunications systems management from Midlands Technical College. She achieved the designation of Certified Government Chief Information Officer in 2009 through the SC Local Government Information Technology Education and Certification Program.

Casey joined the Association in October 2006 as a communications staff associate. Previously, she was the legislative liaison at South Carolina First Steps to School Readiness and advocacy and public awareness coordinator at the SC Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy. Casey is a graduate of the College of Charleston and holds a master’s  from the University of South Carolina in social work and public administration. At the Association, Casey is responsible for developing pro-active media relationships and supporting outreach and project management for the Hometown, SC initiative.

Holland joined the Municipal Association in 2010 as a senior adjuster. He worked on the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund's account from 2005 to 2009 as an adjuster with Companion Third Party Administrators.  He has 35 years experience as a licensed adjuster and appraiser.  He is a graduate of Pfeiffer College and holds the Associate in Claims designation. Holland is also a past president of the Columbia Claims Association.

Susan joined the Association in 2004 as an intern for the Finance department. In October, 2007, she was hired as junior staff associate for collection programs. Currently she manages the Telecommunications Tax Collection Program. She also assists with the Brokers Tax Collection Program, the Insurance Tax Collection Program and the Setoff Debt Collection Program. Susan is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in English and a minor in public relations.

Joy joined the Association in May 2008. She is a University of South Carolina graduate with a bachelor’s degree in finance and insurance and risk management and a minor in criminal justice. She also received an associate’s degree in risk management for public entities from the Insurance Institute of America. She is responsible for assisting SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund members submit claims as well as overseeing the payment of claims. Joy also provides support to risk and safety services, financing and underwriting areas for the Risk Management Services department.

Gail has been with the Association since 1985. She previously worked for the South Carolina Downtown Development Association (before it affiliated with the Association.) From 1985 to 1995, she provided administrative support to the Association. She currently manages the Insurance Tax Collection Program, the Telecommunications Tax Collection Program, the Setoff Debt Program and the Brokers Tax Collection Program.

Warren is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and Webster University. He joined the Association in November 2006 after eight years with the City of Orangeburg, SC, where he served as the assistant city administrator. Warren provides technical assistance to member cities and assists with Association lobbying efforts.

Julie joined the Association in 2007. She brings 10 years of experience as an executive administrative assistant and paralegal from the Finkel Law Firm. Julie also worked at the SC School Boards Association with the Workers' Compensation and Property and Casualty programs as well as with financial management and policy. She graduated from Spartanburg Methodist College with an associate degree in interpreting for the deaf.

Bonnie provides financial assistance for all of the Association's accounting needs including the insurance groups and the affiliated associations. She began work at the Association in 1985 and continued her education at Midlands Technical College.

Having worked 11 years in the hospitality industry, Ken joined the Association in 2005. Ken brings a strong background in the food and beverage industry to the Association as well as experience working with meeting planners from around the country as both a catering manager and director of sales. Most recently, he worked for the Hilton in Greenville, SC, as its sales manager. He grew up in Marion, SC, and graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelor of Arts in theatre.

Joining the Association in July 2003, Sophia provided administrative support for Education and Training, Main Street SC, SC Community Development Association and the Association's Information Technology area. In February 2007, Sophia was promoted to junior staff associate for information technology. She assists in maintaining the Association Management System and providing internal application support. She previously worked with the SC Department of Commerce as the help desk support administrator. Sophia is a University of South Carolina graduate with a bachelor's degree in computer information systems and a minor in business administration.

Meredith joined the Association in February 2009. She is a licensed life and health insurance agent with more than seven years experience in the insurance field.  She is also a Certified Financial Planner. Meredith is a graduate of the College of Charleston and holds a bachelor’s degree in biology. At the Association, Meredith provides service and marketing support to voluntary insurance and employee benefit products for employees and retirees of municipalities.

Melissa joined the Association in 1994 and worked as an administrative assistant. Melissa was promoted to junior staff associate for collection programs in January 2007 to manage the Brokers Tax Collection Program. She also manages the Setoff Debt Collection Program and assists with the Insurance Tax Collection Program and the Telecommunications Tax Collection Program. Melissa is a graduate of the Strayer University with a bachelor's degree in business administration.

Barbara began working at the Association in 1984. She provides administrative support for the Risk Management Services area. Barbara has an associate degree in applied science - secretarial science from Williamsport Area Community College.

Before joining the Association in 2007, Cindy spent seven years working for Sedgwick and Companion as both a claims adjuster and a claims supervisor on the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund. As claims manager, Cindy oversees both the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing and the SC Municipal Insurance Trust Fund. She works as a liaison for the members. Cindy is a graduate of Clemson University with a bachelor’s degree in administrative management. She also earned a master’s degree in business administration from Strayer University in Washington, D.C.

Connie joined the Municipal Association in January 2010 as senior adjuster. Prior to that, she worked on the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund's account as a claims supervisor and adjuster with Companion Third Party Administrators. Connie has over 20 years experience as a multiline adjuster. She is a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and past president of the Columbia Claims Association.

Harvey joined the Association in September 1996 as director for Risk Management Services. He directs the Association's three insurance programs. From 1982 to 1986, Harvey served as the city manager of Salisbury, NC. He is also the former director of Risk Management Services for the North Carolina League of Municipalities, a position he held from 1985-1996. Currently, Harvey serves on the board of directors for the National League of Cities Mutual Insurance Company where he is also the chair of the Claims Management and Loss Control committee. Harvey sits on the board of directors for SC Self Insurers Association as well.

Joining the Association in 2005, Heather directs the financial accounting and reporting functions for the SC Municipal Insurance Trust, SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund, SC Local Government Assurance Group and SC Other Retirement Benefits Employer Trust. Before joining the Association, Heather served as accounting supervisor with the City of Vacaville, California, and worked with the city for more than eight years. She is a CPA and graduate of the University of South Carolina. Heather also received her master's in business administration from California State University.

Shirley joined the Association in 2002. She oversees the Solomon accounting system and supervises the accounts payable and receivable functions, financial report development and financial reporting, and accounting for the Association, SC Association of Municipal Power Systems and Gervais Street Associates. She is a CPA and has earned her master's in business administration as well as the Fellow Life Management Institute designation. Shirley previously worked with the Tidwell Agency, Inc., a multi-line independent insurance agency, as office manager. Prior to that position, she spent more than 10 years in accounting, financial reporting and project management for Colonial Life.

Lynn joined the Association in 2007. Lynn provides accounts payable, credit card programs and other administrative support to the Finance department. Lynn previously worked with Shealy Electrical Wholesalers. Prior to that position, she spent 12 years with Richtex/Hanson Brick.

Lea Ann joined the Association in August, 2008 and provides support to the Association's affiliate groups. Lea Ann has 10 years of administrative experience with Capital City Holding Company, Inc. and Davis Garvin Agencies.

Stephanie joined the Association in 1999 and directs all finance and accounting functions of the Municipal Association and its affiliates, as well as Gervais Street Associates and Municipal Insurance Services. She is a CPA and earned bachelor's degrees in both accounting and business administration from Columbia College. Prior to joining the Association, she worked as an auditor and consultant for local accounting firms and was associated in such roles with the Association for approximately nine years.

Joining the Association in 2008, Leigh is responsible for underwriting the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund and SC Municipal Insurance Trust Fund. A graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in risk management and insurance, Leigh has also received the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter designation from the Insurance Institute of America. Leigh has more than 20 years experience in the insurance industry including underwriting, marketing and management. 

Joining the Association in 2007, Ed is responsible for lobbying and association legal work. Ed is a graduate of the Citadel and USC School of Law. He came to the Association from the SC Association of Counties with four years of lobbying experience.

Neepa joined the Municipal Association in 2007 and is responsible for general accounting support for the Association's Risk Management programs: SC Local Government Assurance Group, SC Municipal Insurance Trust and SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund. Neepa earned a bachelor's degree in government and political affairs with a concentration in economics from the University of Virginia. She came to the Association from Hogan and Hartson LLP, a law firm in Washington, D.C., where she worked for five years.

With 12 years experience in the health, wellness and disease management area, Anne joined the Municipal Association in May 2004. Before joining the Association, Anne worked as a health education specialist for Blue Cross and Blue Shield, then moved to Companion HealthCare as the managed care organizations' health management coordinator. For the past seven years, she was the health promotions coordinator then quality resources manager for Carolina Care Plan, also a managed care organization. She has a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology from the University of South Carolina. Anne develops and implements health and wellness programs for the Association and has oversight of disease management programs.

Scott provides technical assistance and support to municipalities in the Appalachian, Catawba, Central-Midlands and Upper Savannah councils of governments areas. His career includes experience as a political writer on Capitol Hill, work as a human resource and information technology director, as town manager in the Town of Badin, NC, and most recently as the city manager for the City of Woodruff. Scott received bachelor's degrees in history and political science from Winthrop University and a master's in public administration from George Mason University. Scott serves as a captain with the Woodruff Fire Department.

Trudy joined the Municipal Association as a senior adjuster in 2010. Prior to that she worked on the SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund's account since 2005 as an adjuster with Companion Third Party Administrators. She received her bachelor of arts in guidance counseling with a minor in psychology from South Carolina State University.

Beck joined the Municipal Association in 2008 with 25 years of experience in many different areas of media production. She blends expertise in online and video production with curriculum development to create interactive learning and communication tools for the Association's members. During her 16-year employment at the University of South Carolina’s Center for Child and Family Studies, Beck directed the creation of several award-winning productions. In her early career, she worked in radio and television broadcast news creating series and documentaries in addition to local news. Beck earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota and a master’s in media arts from the University of South Carolina.

Christine Sumter joined the Association in August, 2008. She most recently attended Columbia College where she is working towards her degree in public relations. Christine has more than 15 years of administrative experience in both the private and public sector, with the majority of her professional experience earned working with The Sisters of Charity Foundation of SC. She provides administrative support for Hometown, SC Legislative Action Day, the Association's Annual Meeting, SC Utility Billing Association and Main Street SC.

Joining the Municipal Association in 1998, Jeff is primarily responsible for the day-to-day operations of the SC Municipal Insurance Trust Fund (workers' compensation) and SC Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund (property and liability) programs, and also provides support for the SC Local Government Assurance Group (health) program. A graduate of the University of South Carolina with a double major in finance and risk management/insurance, Jeff has also received an associate degree in risk management for public entities from the Insurance Institute of America and his master's in public administration from USC. Jeff also serves as an adjunct professor of insurance at the University of South Carolina.

Meredith joined the Association in November, 2008. Previously, she was the communications director for the Manufactured Housing Institute of South Carolina. Meredith is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and holds a bachelor’s degree in visual communications. At the Municipal Association, Meredith provides creative and design support for the association’s various publications, affiliates and events.

Wendy joined the Association in January, 2005. She attended Lander University where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. Most recently, she worked as an administrative assistant in Lander's Human Resources Department. Currently, she provides administrative support for the Municipal Finance Officers, Clerks and Treasurers Association, Municipal Clerks and Treasurers Institute, SC Business License Officials Association, Municipal Technology Association of SC, SC Association of Stormwater Managers and SC Association of Municipal Power Systems at the Association.

Donna joined the Municipal Association in 2007 as operations manager. She oversees the human resources functions as well as the operations area. Donna earned a bachelor’s degree in business economics from Wofford College and a master’s in human resources from the University of South Carolina. Donna brings more than 11 years of experience in human resources to the Association.

With more than 17 years experience with two law firms in Columbia, Michelle joined the staff of the Association in September, 2003. Along with providing administrative support to the executive director, deputy executive director, field services managers and the Advocacy and Communications department, Michelle also provides administrative assistance to the Hometown Connection program, the Managers Forums, the Hometown, SC Road Shows and the Municipal Association board of directors.