06/10/2026
Today, we celebrated our 25th anniversary at our 2026 Annual Meeting with the theme, "Rooted, Rising. Forging Legacy." bringing together business leaders to reflect on the people, partnerships, and progress that have helped shape Greenville County’s economic legacy.
Congratulations to our 2026 award recipients:
⛏️ Forging Legacy Awards
Jim Burns, Hartness
Dr. Larry Miller, Greenville Technical College
Chad Tumblin, Smith Douglas Homes
Marshall Franklin, EY
🏆 Chairman’s Award
Piedmont Natural Gas
🦬 Buffalo Hunter Award
Daniel Beaty, S.C. Department of Commerce
A huge thank you to our keynote speaker, Joey Von Nessen, Ph.D., of Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, for sharing key insights and data on the economic impact of the GADC’s work over the past 25 years.
Looking ahead, CEO Max Stewart challenged us to continue building on this legacy—remaining rooted in our values, rising to meet new opportunities, and forging a stronger future for generations to come.
To commemorate the GADC's 25th anniversary, Heritage Landcare presented a tree that will be rooted at Conestee Nature Preserve. This oak tree will stand as a living legacy for future generations to enjoy.
Thank you to the leaders that came before us and those shaping our community today that have made the past 25 years possible. Together, we’re forging a legacy for Greenville County.