Forging Tomorrow's Leaders: A Legacy of Excellence

For 40 years, the flagship Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership program has been the catalyst for change-makers in our community.

Over 10 months (August - May), participants get immersed in a transformative experience that goes beyond professional development. Dive deep into the heart of southern Beaufort County, exploring its:

  • Vibrant culture and rich history
  • Economy and business landscape
  • Innovative government structures
  • Cutting-edge educational systems
  • Evolving social fabric

The class also completes a community project. In the past nine years, leadership classes have raised and invested over $200,000 into the community through these projects including Safe Shore, Wheels to the Waves, Reel In & Recycle, Bluffton Library Park, playground equipment at Oscar Frazier Park, "Follow the Fiddlers" in Old Town Bluffton, signage on Daufuskie Island, and more.

The Leadership program isn't just about individual growth—it's about creating a powerful network of leaders who support and inspire each other long after graduation. The bonds formed here last a lifetime, with alumni often citing the camaraderie as one of the most valuable aspects of their experience.

Open to professionals living and working in southern Beaufort County, this program is your gateway to making a lasting difference. Since 1985, over 700 people have graduated from the program.

Why invest in leadership? Because we understand that today's emerging leaders are tomorrow's community pillars. Join us in our mission to cultivate a new generation of visionaries who will drive innovation, foster growth, and create positive change across the Lowcountry.

Questions? Please contact us at [email protected].

 

Welcome Class of 2027!

  • Beth Boulware, Kevin King Associates
  • Jack Cleary, Old Town Bluffton Inn
  • Ashton Cumbie, University of South Carolina Beaufort
  • John Egan, PuroClean of Hilton Head
  • Vincent Elia, Pinnacle Financial Partners
  • Tiffany Fish, Live Oak Academy of the Lowcountry
  • Haley Frazier, Bluffton Township Fire District
  • Abraham Garza, HHI Boys and Girls Club
  • Marcia Hunter, Town of Bluffton
  • Gene King, Hilton Head Island Boys and Girls Club
  • Dominique Lindsey, Greystar
  • Parker Lowe, Kinghorn Insurance Agency
  • Isaac Mannella, Sign D'Sign
  • Jordan Matthis, HHI & Bluffton Chamber
  • Tim Newman, Speaking with Confidence
  • Josh Nottingham, Bowdie’s Chophouse
  • Teagan OConnor, University of South Carolina Beaufort
  • Diana Rideout, Correll Insurance Group of Hilton Head
  • Sarah Sambroak, Disney Vacation Club
  • Madison Shirley, Beachside Getaway
  • Lyndee Simoneaux, Town of Bluffton
  • James Smith, Audio Video Outfitters, LLC
  • Brad Thompson, TS Conductor

 

Thanks to our 2026-2027 Board of Regents

  • Bethany Marcinkowski, Chair
  • Henry Criss, Vice Chair
  • Lynn King, Past Chairs, Sponsorships
  • Nicki Charles, Treasurer
  • Cary Welker, Secretary
  • Connie Turlington, Mentors
  • Jim Damico, CEA's
  • Emily Kraus, CEA's
  • Kristin Keller, CEA's
  • Russell Rogers, Book Presentations
  • Susanna Cook, Recruitment
  • Ryan Willaims, Recruitment
  • Nikki Holsopple, Recruitment
  • Allyson Etheridge, Sponsorships
  • Jose Vargas, Sponsorships
leadership program

Thank you to our 2026-2027 Leadership Program Sponsors!

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Projects

Discover in-depth, impactful projects our previous classes have worked on over the years. 

Photos

See how Lowcountry professionals have come together to learn about the local area and determine ways they can contribute to the community.

Sponsorship

Contribute to the continuation and success of our leadership program.

Leadership Alumni Association

Are you a graduate of the Leadership program?

Junior Leadership Program

Discover a signature, unique leadership program for local high school students. 

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