A fusion of the Midlands’ future

To build a stable, caring community, you need a good blend of young business leaders who will repair what’s weak and protect what’s strong.

In our sixth annual 20 Under 40, we’ve got lawyers, bankers, real estate agents, accountants, salesmen, department heads and politicians. Apart, they carry impressive records. Together, they demonstrate a region’s promising future. They fight for the poor, foster internships for those needing new careers, seek better workplaces for mothers and work to prevent teen pregnancies. They are role models, breaking glass ceilings or becoming family firsts.

Meet the 20 Under 40 class of 2009

His job: President, Boykin Contracting Inc.

Age: 36

Family: wife, Sharon; children, Erin, 6; and Javon, 5 months

Education: Bachelor’s degree, electrical engineering technology, South Carolina State; master’s degree, business administration, Webster University

Community involvement: City of Columbia Construction Award, 2005; Fastest Growing Company in South Carolina, 2004 and 2005; vice president, trustee, Bethlehem Baptist Church; member, EngenuitySC board; past board member, Columbia Chamber of Commerce

From his nomination: “At the age of 28, he started Boykin Contracting Inc., a minority-owned general and electrical contracting business which has grown to be one of the most successful businesses in the state.” — Thomas Brock Sr., Boykin Contracting

What’s the difference, for you, between business and personal success? “Being the first person in my paternal family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree can only begin to describe my view on personal success. … I look forward to financial stability and a positive legacy. It is said that, ‘You are only as good as the company you keep (and that you are) remembered by your work.’ Your work should always speak for you.”

Do you live by any mantra or saying? “1. Don’t fret over the little things. Think big. 2. Live life to the fullest — as if it would never end. 3. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. 4. Don’t worry (about) falling down because effort and hope will get you up.”

Have you ever failed at something? How did you recover? “As a high school junior, I was presented the opportunity to obtain a scholarship to a well-established university. Due to personal family obstacles and a competitive class of students, I lost my chance. Through perseverance and determination, I did get accepted to another university and received a partial scholarship from the Army. I would not allow myself to get despondent or become depressed. Instead, I pushed forward and looked for other avenues.”

If you could cure the ills of the world, where would you start? “I would start with depression, anxiety and poverty. In my assessment, depression and poverty go hand in hand. People who are dealt unfortunate circumstances are not only left searching for answers or a way to cope but find that depression, and other illnesses … become the controlling force in that individual’s life.”

Right now, people are worrying about the economy. What are you optimistic about? “I am excited about global change and unity. For too long, we have isolated and segregated ourselves in our thinking, choice of friendships and communities.”

His job: Executive director, S.C. Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy

Age: 31

Family: Single

Education: Bachelor’s degree, health promotion, Coastal Carolina University; master’s degree, public health, USC

Community involvement: Coastal Carolina Distinguished Alumnus (2008); past board member, S.C. Association for the Advancement of Health Education; advisory committee, Arnold School of Public Health Campus-Community Partnerships for Health; S.C. Interagency Coordinated School Health Workgroup; member, State Alliance for Adolescent Sexual Health; member, Delta Omega Society, Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce; Young Leaders Society, United Way of the Midlands; member, Columbia Opportunity Resource; member, American Public Health Association, American School Health Association

From his nomination: “Forrest’s leadership has increased the visibility of (the S.C. Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy) beyond the scope of a traditional non-profit to include partnerships with the business community and media outlets throughout South Carolina.” — the board and staff of the S.C. Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy

How do you define success? “I have been raised (to believe) that success is a journey, not a destination. I’ve been blessed in my life to have two great parents and a whole host of mentors that have instilled in me a belief that if you work hard — really hard — and keep doing things the right way, success will come.”

What slogan do you live by? “Benjamin E. Mays once said, ‘Every man and woman is born into the world to do something unique and something distinctive, and if he or she does not do it, it will never be done.’ ”

If you could cure the ills of the world, where would you start? “It starts with investing in young people, ensuring they are prepared for their future and helping them to prevent pregnancy. Teen pregnancy is inextricably linked to a host of other ills in the world like infant mortality, abuse, poverty, juvenile delinquency, an undereducated workforce.”

How much of your success do you attribute to luck and how much to work? “I’ve benefited from both hard work and being in the right place at the right time. … I’m a big believer in ambition, dedication and hard work, but there is something to be said for the influence of family, surroundings, positioning and a little luck.”

Despite the down economy, what are you optimistic about? “The difficult times we are in have forced us to become closer as a people and learn how to work together more efficiently, have encouraged creativity and innovation.”

Her jobs: Co-owner, The Real Estate School of South Carolina; owner, The Marketing Division; broker-in-charge, JGI Properties; writer; UFirst — United First Financial independent agent; co-owner, South Carolina Realty Age: 39

Family: husband, Chip Browne

Education: Bachelor’s degree, criminal justice, USC Spartanburg (Now USC Upstate)

Community involvement: Past chairwoman, March for Meals; Board of Directors nominee, Senior Resources; Governor’s Year of the Child Award; past silent auction co-chair, Festival of Trees, Children’s Hospital of Palmetto Health; Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Midlands; Home Builders Association of Greater Columbia; Central Carolina Association of Realtors; former board member, Trustus Theatre.

From her nomination: “It is sometimes said that people are either ‘left brained’ or ‘right brained.’ Melissa happens to be one of those rare people who uses both sides equally. Her organization and business skills give her the ability to focus on many tasks and projects, while her creativity does it with flair.” — Arlin Coleman Jr., U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, multifamily division

Do you know a lot about a little or a little about a lot? “I’m probably one of those people that I can do anything if you show me enough about it.”

The economic future looks bleak. What are you optimistic about? “From the real estate perspective, I’m very optimistic in our market. We’re at a down point right now, (but) we’ve got the government, we’ve got the state university, we’ve got the fort. I feel that once we get to the spring … everything is going to run around.”

What abiding principle do you live by? Browne says she bought a T-shirt that says “Well-behaved women rarely make history,” which she wears while performing housework. But “basically, I’m a ‘Do unto others’-type person. I just believe that it matters that you’re good to someone. I just do what I can to make someone’s life a little easier.”

What’s ahead for you? A publisher is looking at her book, “A Layman’s Guide to Family Care-Giving,” which concerns caring for aging parents. Browne’s parents died 10 months apart, in 2002 and 2003. She now helps former Gamecock announcer Bob Fulton, who is 88, with care issues. She wrote her book “because it just really irked me that there was not anything out there. That (a publisher’s attention) thrills me beyond words.”

How do you balance everything? “I’m not busy between 2 and 4 — do you need something done? That would be a.m.”

His job: President/owner Agil Staff Inc., which places bilingual or other hard-to-find workers

Age: 37

Family: Married, wife, Heidi; children, Colson, 5; and Sally, 2

Education: Bachelor’s degree, broadcast journalism, USC

Community involvement: S.C. Hispanic Leadership Council; Celebrate Freedom Foundation; youth program at Eastminster Presbyterian Church

From his nomination: “Ken has helped countless individuals advance in their careers and, in some cases, get back on the road to financial stability and independence.” — Ana Drummond, Agil Staff

How did you come to work with bilingual, predominantly Spanish-speaking workers? “I was an Air Force brat and lived in Spain. When I lived over there, (native children) beat me up and told me, ‘Go home, rich American.’” When Carey did come back to the States, he consciously gave up what Spanish he had learned. He has tried to fit in time for a class but has yet to find it. “I’m working on it, slowly but surely,” through conversation. But, “with the economy being the way it is, now would probably be a good time” to take a class because work for his employment agency can be slow.

What mantra do you work by? “I work real hard to finish each day and be comfortable with my activities for each day and not carry any regrets into the next day.” He also tries to live by the Golden Rule but admits that “I’m definitely a work in progress.”

How do you define success? “The success that I’m looking for is balance between work life and family life.” Family life, Carey says, comes first. On a typical day, he will drop the children at pre-school — he admits he often forgets their lunches, which can frustrate his wife, Heidi. Carey also admits he isn’t always as disciplined and organized as his wife, who is a foreclosure attorney. “I was a Marine (for three years) and think I was voted ‘least likely to be a Marine.’ ”

What’s a typical work week? “If I have a client with a deadline, then I’m working more. I’ve got to be willing to take a call and make a call on nights and weekends. . . . But most of the time it’s not like that.” Carey estimates his total hours at 40 to 50 each week.

What’s ahead for you? “I’m successful in that I’ve been able to start a staffing company and make money … but there is a lot of room for growth.” Carey is working to broaden his business outside the state.

To what do you attribute your success? “The harder I work, the luckier I am, is what Thomas Jefferson said. If I work on what I can control, which is finding the right employers,” the business will succeed.

Her job: Founder/owner Cauthen Law Firm; founder/owner of Nationwide Administrators and Cauthen Enterprises; member, Blythewood Town Council

Age: 38

Family: Husband Mark Cauthen

Education: Bachelor’s degree, English, USC; law degree, USC School of Law

Community involvement: Former chairwoman, Blythewood Board of Zoning Appeals; former chairwoman, S.C. Bar Conventions Committee; charter member, Greater Blythewood Chamber of Commerce; Advisor of USC Chapter of Chi Omega; president and chair, Cauthen Charitable Foundation

From her nomination: “She tries to find ways where she believes she can make a difference, either in advocating or educating. She is able to make inroads on issues which matter to her clients, her constituents and area children.” — former client Margie McCoy

How do you define success? “If I get to live my life on my own terms. . . . I’m getting there. In the grand scheme of things, I’m closer now than I was five years ago” when she had yet to establish her solo law firm or her own escrow company, Nationwide Administrators.

Why did you go out on your own? “The actual intention was to work less” than she had in larger law firms. But, as it happens, she works more. “If I think for a minute there’s a free moment, I have to overschedule it.”

Will you recognize when you’ve achieved what you define as success? “I don’t think success, as I’ve defined it, is something I’ll recognize until I’ve passed it. I usually fly by at 75 miles per hour and realize, ‘Hey, that’s my exit.’” She’s working on the “working 15 hours a day” exit. She hasn’t made it because “now I find myself doing (work) at all hours of the day and night. I work the vast majority of the time in my pajamas — and that is pretty close to successful, in my book.”

Is there a mantra or a slogan that you live by? Yes, one by Transcendentalist and early American author Henry David Thoreau: “I had three chairs in my house: one for solitude, two for friendship, three for society. When visitors came in larger and unexpected numbers, there was but the third chair for them all, but they generally economized the room by standing up.” “Basically, he’s saying to limit your universe to make it reasonable, to limit what you let into your life.”

Do you do that? “No. . . . I’m always racing.”

What lies ahead for you? “My goals are pretty selfish. I want to work less (and) be more efficient. I don’t want every waking hour to be consumed by work. But at the same time, I enjoy law. I feel good when I help someone, and that usually means winning. But if I could just spend a little more time with family and friends and travel and do it on my terms, that would be great.”

Her job: Director, Human Resources and Community Affairs, DESA Inc.

Age: 36

Family: husband, Tyrell Sr.; children, Tyrell Jr., 6; and Joseph, 5

Education: Bachelor’s degree, marketing, S.C. State University; master’s degree, business administration, Mercer University

Community involvement: den leader, Boy Scouts Pack 101 Wolf Den; member, Rotary International; Toastmasters International; Forest Lake Elementary School Improvement Council; Forest Lake Elementary School Foundation; Education Policy Fellow, 2008-2009

From her nomination: “Mrs. Fleshman is not only a tremendous asset to her employer and a devoted community member but a mother of two as well. One of her sons was diagnosed with autism at an early age. Ever since, Mrs. Fleshman has made it a part of her life to help not only her son, but others with autism . . . She is an eager advocate against this disorder.” — Darrin Thomas, Thomas/McCants Media Inc.

How do you define success? “Success is becoming content with your life, finding peace within your soul and having love and hope in your heart.”

Tell us a little bit about your work with autism and its importance to you. “My youngest son, Joseph, was diagnosed with autism in August of 2008. That diagnosis changed the way I envisioned my son’s life. I could no longer look at his future plans — college, marriage, etc. — but instead, I have to look closer at his daily challenges. Currently, my work with autism involves research. By better educating myself on this disorder, I can better serve my son and others like him within our community. Research provides ideas on the best ways to face challenges not only for him, but for me, too.”

A lot of your work involves children. Why is that so important to you? “There is nothing more important to me than children who are healthy, emotionally stable and physically strong. … That why I make it my responsibility to involve myself in the lives of children through school involvement, Boy Scout leadership, assistance with the children’s church ministry and other youth programs.”

What advice have you received from mentors? “Always keep your future goals in mind. The choices we make today dictate the choices that we can make tomorrow. No one rises to low expectations.”

What’s ahead for you? “I am currently focused on spending time with my family and helping Joseph, my son with autism, face his challenges. I will continue to engage myself in community events and civic organizations. Eventually, I would like to pursue my doctoral studies.”

Her job: Director of service excellence, Palmetto Health Richland

Age: 34

Family: husband, Michael; children, Hunter, 8; and Matthew, 3

Education: Bachelor’s degree, accounting, USC; master’s degree, business administration, Webster University

Community involvement: Past president, S.C. Society of Hospital Directors of Volunteer Services; past president, Southeast Directors Volunteer Services in Health Care; graduate, Leadership Novant; youth coach, Seven Oaks Park

From her nomination: “Charity has been responsible for hardwiring leadership best practices across our hospital. She has been a key leader in our cultural transformation and the results are extraordinary: Palmetto Health Richland now ranks in the top 1 percent of 600-plus-bed hospitals in America in patient satisfaction.” — John Singerling, chief operating officer, and Stan Hickson, vice president for operations, Palmetto Health Richland

Your first name is “Charity.” Is that something you feel you must live up to? “I was blessed to be given the name Charity by my parents. I live up to the meaning of my name by living my personal values, which I feel defines my character.”

Your work requires you to make people better. How do you accomplish this in the current difficult times? “I support and serve those who are directly providing care for our patients and their families. It is the small things like a friendly greeting, assistance finding a department, an extra blanket, etc., that can make a positive difference in the experience. Even during the current difficult economic times, it doesn’t cost to smile and say ‘hello.’ ”

What’s next to accomplish, and how will you do it? “I will continue to seek opportunities to enhance my personal and professional skills. I strive to balance a successful career along with being a loving and supportive wife and mother of two wonderful, active boys.”

Do you have a personal philosophy or mantra you live by? What is it? “‘Every person has a gift.’ As a leader, it is up to me to recognize the talents and skills of others, so that they may find meaning in their work or cause.”

Think about a time when you failed to accomplish something. How did you move forward? “Failures are opportunities for an individual to learn and grow from the experience. If you look at the experience as an opportunity to improve, it makes moving forward much easier.”

Her job: Director of policy research, lobbyist, S.C. Hospital Association; founder The Motherhood Priority, which works to strengthen mother-friendly policies in the workplace.

Age: 31

Family: Husband, Michael; child, Gabrielle, 2

Education: Bachelor’s degree. health care management, Lander University; Master’s degree, Health Administration, USC

Community involvement: board treasurer, S.C. Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy; elder, Right Direction Christian Center

From her nomination: “Rozalynn is regarded by her peers as a leader in the state’s health-care profession, and she earns that distinction anew every day. … Roz is changing the Midlands for the better.” — Thornton Kirby, president and CEO, S.C. Hospital Association

What makes you successful? “I have a determination — there’s a drive there to make sure that I can help others. … Everything I do goes back to people. … Leadership is about people. They call me the conscience of the SCHA” because she remembers that “behind the numbers are people, are faces of people who may not have access to health care.” … I’ve been blessed and fortunate to be able to work on two of my passions at the same time (health care and mothering).”

How does it feel to have other people define you as a leader? “It’s humbling because there’s nothing extraordinary about me. I come from a small town. It’s called Mount Carmel. It’s 231 people and everybody’s kin. It has a single-wide trailer as a post office (and) one traffic light. A lot of great values came from there. To be considered a leader or successful in the Midlands — it’s huge. … It doesn’t make me all ‘Yeah, I did that.’ I know how my parents had to push me in school. I was very marginal (as a student). The leadership I have had (from parents, pastors and her husband) really makes me believe I could do anything. That’s priceless.”

How do you balance everything? “When I had (my daughter), it was, ‘Oh my God, … I can’t go back to work five days a week. I just can’t do it,” Goodwin says, adding that other mothers feel the same way and deserve the same flexibility she has found. “Ultimate success is to be able to follow a passion like The Motherhood Priority” and to see health care become “more mother friendly.”

What’s ahead for you? “I’m really looking forward to revolutionizing not just South Carolina but our nation” in how it treats mothers in the workplace. Eighty percent of hospital workers are women, Goodwin says. Those women need more flexible schedules that will accommodate their maternal needs as well as their need to work.

His jobs: Real estate agent at Graham Realty and mayor of Camden

Age: 26

Family: wife, Sara

Education: Bachelor’s degree, business administration, Presbyterian College

Honors and memberships: Eagle Scout; board member, vice president/tourism, Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce; chair of The Camden Polo Match for the Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County; board, Camden Rotary; church youth volunteer; chair, Kershaw County Democratic Party; United Way; Kershaw County Housing Partnership; Applied Technology Education Campus Advisory Council; Kershaw County Gang Task Force

From his nomination: “This is his first elected position but not his first leadership role. He’s always been involved. He is motivated and compassionate. He’s very composed.” — Johnny Deal, First Palmetto Savings Bank

You’ve just been elected the youngest mayor of Camden. Does that make you’re a success? “Now I’ve got my work cut out for me.” For Camden, Graham has “goals and objectives (for) where we want to be. … You can be successful without meeting all your objectives. The reality of it is that you do the best you can.”

How much of your current success has to do with being in the right place at the right time? “Obviously, growing up in (Camden) makes it a little easier to run (for mayor), but the other part is working hard. I have always wanted to work hard. I like to make an impression where I’ve been.”

Is there a lot of pressure being declared successful at a young age? “I’m the youngest (sibling). I’ve always had a challenge to keep up with them (a brother and sister). … People want me to be successful. People want me to do a good job, so they’re willing to help.”

Do you live by a certain mantra? “Service has been a huge part of my upbringing. It was John Wesley (the founder of Methodism) who said: Do all the good for all the people you can as long as you can. Serving the community is an important part of who I am.”

You have several lifetimes yet. What will you do with them? “I don’t know. I’ll take opportunities as they come. Right now, I’m interested in Camden.”

There’s a lot to be pessimistic with the economy about now. What are you optimistic about? “We’ve got a new presidential administration. I think they’ll bring some vision and ideas. … I try to look at the positive side of a lot of things. We have a lot of great people (in Camden) who do a lot of great things in their community. … Hard times challenge us to realize that we can work together.”

His job: Vice president, general counsel, Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina

Age: 33

Family: wife, Tanya Gee; children, William, 4; and Sabin, 1

Education: bachelor’s degrees, English, history and political science, Clemson; law degree, USC

Community involvement: board member, Appleseed Legal Justice Center; board member, Greater Chapin Endowment; House of Delegates, S.C. Bar Association; S.C. representative, national Electric Cooperative Bar Association

From his nomination: “He is known for having a keen intellect and the ability to consider problems from all sides’ points of view. Perhaps even more importantly, he has a gift for mediating problems in such a way that all parties are satisfied … He makes me proud to be an attorney.” — Judge Kaye Hearn, S.C. Court of Appeals

You were Clemson University’s first known triple major. What led you to attempt that? Has it paid off? “The undertaking was somewhat accidental, and those subjects have actually most benefited me in the reverse order that I studied them. I began as a political science major but eventually realized that I could double-major in English with a heavier course load. Those majors both required certain history courses, and by the time I was finished with them, I wasn’t far from an additional history degree. It probably helped my resume stand out, but the obvious value was the education itself.”

You clerked for U.S. District Judge Matthew Perry. What characteristics did you learn from him? “More so than any other person I have ever encountered, Judge Perry is absolutely committed to the ideal that all men are entitled to basic human dignity, justice and equality under the law.”

You work to provide legal services to low-income clients. What do you draw from such work? “I am convinced that our state’s collective fortunes are tied to the success or failure of our low-income residents. I was attracted to Appleseed because it focuses on a pivotal segment of South Carolina’s population that receives very little advocacy.”

Do you consider yourself successful? “My father once told me that a wise marriage makes all the difference in life, and in that, I feel that I have probably succeeded beyond my abilities. My next measure of success is to raise our children to be happy, public service-minded adults.”

What can each individual do to turn things around with the economy? “We all need to live within our means, but I also believe that hard work and education can solve almost any problem. In South Carolina, we have plenty of people willing to work hard, but educational opportunities aren’t always sought or offered like they should be.”

His job: Senior vice president, Midlands market executive, First Citizens Bank

Age: 35

Family: wife, Ashley; children, Orie, 4; Bradley 3; and Anna Louise, 2.

Education: Bachelor’s degree, business administration, Presbyterian College

Community involvement: Young Leaders Society steering committee, United Way of the Midlands; past member, Muscular Dystrophy Association Gala Committee; Boys & Girls Club campaign; associate deacon, First Baptist Church

From his nomination: “The team he manages ranges from (recent) college graduates to veteran bankers. Each member of the team has applauded his ability to add value to their markets and personal development.” — Sharon Bryant, First Citizens

From his nomination: “The team he manages ranges from (recent) college graduates to veteran bankers. Each member of the team has applauded his ability to add value to their markets and personal development.” — Sharon Bryant, First Citizens

Your nomination cited your “keen ability to take strategy from the written word to reality in the workplace.” What does that mean? “(It’s) taking a written plan and giving it breath, bringing that plan to life in the organization. The key is understanding the big picture, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of my team, and leading them through the details. Listening is paramount … as well as helping my team to understand the ‘why’ behind all that we do.”

How do you define success? “True success is authentic, based on how someone achieves rather than what someone achieves. If character is built with honesty, trust, faith and hard work, the end result will always be the desired result.”

Are professional and personal success different things? “The only difference between the two is how they are prioritized. I learned a long time ago that family comes before profession.”

You began your career as a teller. What lessons did you learn in that position that you have carried into all of your work? “I will always remember, appreciate and respect what it is like to work on the front lines of the bank. Our teller family is the face of First Citizens, and our customer experience depends on them more than on anyone else in the organization. I have found that I relate to our tellers very well because they know I understand what they experience every day.”

Is there a particular mantra by which you live? “My late father told me often that if you treat people the right way all of the time, they will always respect you no matter what the circumstances. I remember him and his advice every day.”

You’re been declared a success at 35. Is the pressure off, or do you intend to keep pushing ahead? “I am always thinking of the future and sometimes struggle to stop and enjoy the moment. Those who know me well hear often how I despise complacency.”

His job: District sales manager, Yankee Candle Co.

Family: Single

Age: 39

Education: Bachelor’s degree, theater and speech, USC

Community involvement: AIDS Benefit Foundation of South Carolina, The Animal Mission of South Carolina, S.C. Firefighters Fund Calendar, S.C. Pride Movement, Project Pet, Darkness to Light charity fashion show, Trustus and Workshop Theatre fundraising, Richland School District One and Two

From his nomination: “It will never be said that Clay will do anything in a conventional manner. (He thinks) big and bold — looking for the most exciting and grand way to get the word out on whatever.” — Elaine Gillespie, Gillespie Advertising Agency

How does your major in theater and speech help you in your profession? “Entering theater at USC was the proverbial ‘light bulb moment’: … I learned about how to balance creativity with profitability, and how to work with large and diverse groups. My role was in the management side of theater. If you can organize a group of 100 ballerinas, plan an entire repertory company’s schedule or design and execute a show, you can do almost anything in the business world.”

With your wide range of involvement, do you have trouble saying “no” when people ask for help? “Honestly, I do. I went through my collegiate years with not much income and once I got into the ‘real world,’ I realized that not only my money but my time and experience were invaluable to many groups. Just being able to go out and purchase supplies or being able to organize a fund-raiser can mean the difference to so many people in South Carolina — why would I ever say no? I keep hoping that every time I work on something, at least one volunteer comes back and helps again.”

What sort of rewards do you glean from such an active community life? “I meet really amazing people. It’s almost like a really exclusive club. … I work with a very diverse group and a mostly fun group. We all know that whatever the project, we are all there for the same goal. Also — in full disclosure — many of the things I work on are based around show premieres, parties or really cool fundraisers. These are the things I would want to go to, but, in this case, I get to make them up from scratch.”

Do you live by a personal mantra or philosophy? “Give of your time, talent or money.”

What’s your favorite-smelling candle? “Jasmine Green Tea. Unique, complex, and just slightly left of center for the typical consumer. I think sums up a great deal of me as well.”

What’s next for you? “I will be producing and costuming ‘Les Liasions Dangereuses/Dangerous Liasions’ at Workshop Theatre early in 2009 and then planning Dining With Friends 2009 for the AIDS Benefit Foundation and Party Animals 2009 for the Animal Mission.”

Her job: Member/attorney, Wyche, Burgess, Freeman & Parham; fighter pilot, S.C. Air National Guard

Age: 38

Family: husband, Dr. Robert Kosciusko; son, Wyatt, 1

Education: Bachelor’s degree, classics, Princeton University; law degree, University of Virginia

Community involvement: S.C. Young Lawyer of the Year, 2004; Forest Hills Neighborhood Association Community Character Protection; Animal Mission; ASPCA

From her nomination: “Tally has excelled in an incredible variety of endeavors. She … was the first female fighter pilot in the history of South Carolina and has flown active combat missions. She has also excelled as an attorney. … What a tremendous role model.” — John Moylan, Wyche Law Firm

You’re a fighter pilot and a trial lawyer. What do those two things have in common? “Practically speaking, not a whole lot, (but) they both involved reliance on team members and quick thinking on your feet.” And both “competitive . . . and high stress.”

What made you want to be a fighter pilot? “I had wanted to be a fighter pilot since I was teeny. I had actually applied to the Air Force Academy when I was in high school.” But when Parham told a recruiter the job she wanted, he said, “Oh, that’s very cute, honey, but women can’t do that.” So Parham withdrew her application and attended Princeton. She was working in New York City when she saw that the military had lifted the ban on females in combat. She called McIntyre Air Force Base. “They were extremely encouraging.”

Where did the idea of flying come from? “When I was little, my father had been a pilot.” He had an acrobatics airplane. “I loved going up and doing loops and rolls.”

What is it like, being considered a role model? “During the early years, I was frequently asked to speak to schools or public groups. . . . I certainly felt that any misstep that I made was going to be well publicized. It was hard to hide, but I certainly am glad that when there are young women out there who want to be (fighter pilots), they have someone they can ask.”

What’s it like to work in the same firm as your father? “I used to always ask him why he was a lawyer, and he told me that he got to learn something new every day and he enjoyed his job.”

What are you reading now? “A lot of parenting books. I feel like I need some on-the-job training. I did learn that the most physically and mentally challenging thing I’ve ever done is not being a fighter pilot, it’s raising a child.”

Do you live by any mantra? Parham says that her mother, Peggy, “really did make me believe that if there was something that I wanted to do and something I was committed to, I could make it happen.”

Her job: Tax partner and leader of the South Carolina tax practice of Grant Thornton LLP

Age: 39

Family: children, Hugh, 7; and Kristin, 4

Education: Bachelor’s degree, accounting, Furman University; master’s degree, accountancy, USC

Community involvement: board member, Riverbanks Society; S.C. Family Business Forum; United Way of the Midlands; board member, Women’s S.C. Golf Association

From her nomination: “In an industry that recruits about 50 percent females with typically 10 percent promoted to partner, some may have considered that a woman with a flexible work schedule would have a difficult time of getting promoted to partner. This statistic did not deter Barbara.” — Kathy Habluetzel, partner, Grant Thornton LLP

You’re a tax partner in a nationwide public accounting firm, and the first female partner in South Carolina. Do you consider yourself a role model? “I really like what I do, and so may be a role model — I’m kind of big on setting goals and working to achieve them … even if it takes a long time. I have people who look at me and say, ‘I don’t know how you do it’ and I don’t know how I do it either. … I’ve been pretty lucky (to balance work and family) on my flexible schedule.”

In high school, you played on the boys’ golf team because your school, Irmo, had no girls’ team. What skills did you need to perform well despite being the “odd man out”? Do you still use those skills professionally? “It allowed me to get ready for my summer tournaments, (and) I ended up playing real well” on the high school team, too. (The Irmo team became state champions.) “It’s not like I had any chance of winning individually, but I kind of hung in there in the middle of the pack. … I’m really competitive. Golf allowed me to kind of think through things and think, ‘How am I going to get better?’ ”

Do you actively look for “glass ceilings” to break, or do you just seem to be in the right place at the right time? “More of it is certainly your own personal drive and what you want to do” that makes a person successful. “Some of it is luck.” She mentions choosing what firm to work for. “I’m lucky … my life has taken this path.”

Do you live by a personal mantra? “I’m pretty good about not putting all my eggs in one basket.”

What do you do to wind down? “I played golf like a job for a good 12 years of my life. I really enjoy it, but not to goof off.” When she wants to do that, Ryan throws a ball with “my little athlete,” Hugh. Or, she looks for “some sort of enjoyable fiction that doesn’t tax my brain too much.”

Her job: Executive director, S.C. Bar Foundation

Age: 33

Family: husband, Thomas; children, Megan, 11; Drew, 9; Michael, 5; Kendall, 2

Education: Bachelor’s degree, business economics and Spanish, Wofford College; master’s degree, business administration, USC

Community involvement: advisory board, City Year; board of managers, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral; acted and directed in Town Theatre productions; awards for public-service programming, National Conference of Bar Foundations; Silver Wing Awards, S.C. Public Relations Society of America; Rising Star Award, Leadership Columbia; Volunteer of the Year, United Way of the Midlands; former Miss Columbia Northeast and Miss Greater Irmo

From her nomination: “Shannon is a dynamic, intelligent and creative leader. (She) is the youngest person to hold (her) position and enjoys a great reputation in the national arena among her peers in other states.” — J. Calhoun Watson, lawyer and past president of the S.C. Bar Foundation

You have a longtime affiliation with Town Theater. Does that work help you in your professional life? “Absolutely. Absolutely it does. … A lot of times at the Bar Foundation, I’m in front of lawyers, asking for things. … You get a little bit of stage fright in your day job, too.”

What do you like about working with the charitable arm of the bar? “With every day there’s a new avenue to explore, there’s a new person I haven’t talked with. That’s what makes it exciting for me and keeps it very fresh.”

Do you live by a particular mantra? “I don’t know what play it is, but ‘To thine own self be true.’” And Scruggs’ mother always said to, “Be your best self. Be the very best you can be in whatever place you’re in.”

Times are tough. What’s your outlook? “I’m cautiously optimistic. This certainly is a challenging time, but I firmly believe this, too, shall pass. One thing you can do (during tough times) is grab on, hold on to others. … I do think some things will get better, but you do have to make some prudent decisions to get through it.”

Do you see yourself as a success? “Yes, I do, but I don’t think that comes without a lot of help. I’m part of a successful network.”

What’s next for you? Scruggs says she loves her job and intends to stay there. “ Definitely (what’s next) is watching my children grow, and helping them do the very best they can.”

His job: Shareholder, McNair Law Firm

Age: 35

Family: wife, Rebecca Goodrich Seezen; children, James, 7; Marshall, 5; and Jack, 1

Education: Bachelor’s degree, politics and economics, Wake Forest University; law degree, University of Tennessee

Community involvement: United Way of the Midlands; Leadership Columbia; Columbia Opportunity Rescue; church choir

From his nomination: “Michael is an outstanding lawyer and person. (He) has a tremendous work ethic, is very intelligent and practical, and interacts well with clients — a rare combination in a lawyer.” — Michael Beal, business department manager, McNair Law Firm

What makes a successful lawyer? “Communication with clients is vital. Some of the best lawyers in my field are folks who are continually accessible to their clients. They aren’t just technically proficient; they add value to a transaction by making difficult concepts easier to understand for their clients. Also, I think successful lawyers can’t just ‘work’ on legal matters anymore — they must be, visible and active in the business community and … serve in management functions or in non-billable capacities for their law firms. I helped found the (United Way of the Midlands’) Young Leaders Society. In my firm, I have helped our municipal finance practice group to organize” and improve communication.

When do you think the economy will turn around? “A good portion of my practice is dependent upon a vital and diverse financial market. I have witnessed firsthand that the markets are frozen — deals that could get done three months ago are now treading water. Folks that I talk with keep saying, ‘Wait until January; wait until first quarter 2009’ for market conditions to loosen and deals to start getting done. I think people are hunkering down for a bad 2009.”

Think of something at which you failed. How did you overcome it? “When I was a young associate, I remember a time that I was working with multiple shareholders in the firm who all had big deals going on. It was hard to keep straight all of the different types of deals. I thought that if I just worked longer hours or harder, I could satisfy all of the demands on my time. I felt swamped. At some point, one of the shareholders for whom I was working the longest and the hardest, called me into his office, scolded me for not being responsive and ‘fired’ me from his deal. I learned several good lessons: 1. Speak up and learn to say ‘no’; 2. Be cognizant of what your associates are doing — sloppy, bad or unresponsive work can easily become actionable malpractice if unchecked; and 3. It’s good to be busy; it’s bad to be out of control.”

Do you have a mantra or saying you live by? “Don’t be the reason the deal fails.”

His jobs: CEO, Epiphany International/William W. Smith and Associates; S.C. managing officer, Optimum Financial Services

Age: 31

Family: wife, Kimberly Wardlaw Smith; children William Wallace Smith II, 2, and a baby girl due in March.

Education:attended Tuskegee University

Community involvement: Richland County Board of Zoning Appeals; Columbia Family Self-Sufficiency Board; past board member, 100 Black Men of America; board member, Carolina Scholarship Inc.; stewardship committee chair, Francis Burns United Methodist Church

From his nomination: “Most people go the traditional route of college and so forth, but people don’t realize there’s a more successful path for the risk takers who opt to teach themselves. He’s an example of that.” — State District Judge Michelle Childs

You own Epiphany International, which helps with mortgage loans and real estate development. Why did you choose the name “Epiphany”? “I had an epiphany about an array of business ideas that, with my experience and networks, would allow me to accomplish a lifelong goal. Not only did I love the word but its spiritual meaning as well, and I knew I had to incorporate it into my business movement.”

You have marketed premieres for entertainers, such as Jamie Foxx and Will Smith. How did you come into that line of work? “I have family who reside in Los Angeles, D.C. and New York that have introduced me to several good people — like Will Smith and Jamie Foxx — that I now call friends. I’ve worked with my cousin in L.A. to promote exclusive fund-raisers/events and parties for several celebrities and have done several smaller marketing events locally. My goal this year is to collaborate with more movers and shakers to bring the world to South Carolina.”

What aspirations do you hold for your children? Have those changed as a result of the presidential election? “I aspire for my children to accomplish more than the generations before them — to be confident individuals, respectful of others at all times and to always ‘do the right thing for the right reasons,’ as my mother instilled in me. … With Barrack Obama as our nation’s new president, they have another prominent role model to surpass.”

What does your future hold? “My goal is to build more partnerships with national and local groups that have similar intellectually motivating ideals with emphasis on giving back to the community. I plan to write a series of business books, start a foundation for cancer victims and, with God’s help, be a better resource and strength to others.”

Her job: Director, Apprenticeship Carolina, a division of the S.C. Technical College System

Age: 39

Family: husband, John B. Carran

Education: Bachelor’s degree, Xavier University; Diplome d’Etudes, University of Paris, Sorbonne; Master of Arts, New York University; Master of Philosophy, New York University

Community involvement: chair, United Way of the Midlands Education, Job and Life Skills Steering Committee; member, New Carolina Education and Workforce Task Force; member, Columbia Rotary Club; member, Women in Philanthropy; member, Columbia World Affairs Council; member, S.C. Technical College System Leadership Academy; lector, St. Peter’s Church

From her nomination: “Ann Marie is a motivated, results-oriented, high-energy, compassionate overachiever who appreciates and respects the community in which she lives.” — Robbie Barnett, S.C. Chamber of Commerce; and Jim Reynolds, Total Comfort

How much has your division has increased the number of registered apprenticeship programs? In July 2007, “there were 90 registered apprenticeship programs in the state and 777 individuals. Our most recent numbers show that we’ve increased the number of programs in the state by 51 percent — to 136 — and the number of apprentices by 53 percent — 1,190.”

How do you plan to overcome the challenges presented by a depressed job market? “These are the times when we see an increased demand for further education and career retraining. Many of our colleges are seeing record enrollment. Employers will continue to need to ensure that the employees they have are highly skilled and contributing to the bottom line.”

You have worked in West Africa. What did you do there? “My husband and I were volunteer trainees with the Peace Corps in Mauritania. I was an education volunteer and he was assigned as an environmental-education volunteer. We spent three months with Peace Corps and then accepted an independent opportunity to spend two years in the Pacific Region. I was the vice president/assistant director of the Ponape Agriculture and Trade School located in Micronesia.”

What skills have you transferred from there to your work here? “Traveling and working in diverse cultures has trained me to try to gain an understanding of where other people are coming from. I think this is crucial to providing excellent customer service as well as to building partnerships that benefit a larger goal.”

What is your personal mantra? “ ‘Get out of your own way.’ I think we can often be a barrier to our own success. It’s important to be self-reflective. I wouldn’t say I’m always successful at this, but it’s something I try to remember.”

His job: Commercial real estate broker, Colliers Keenan Inc.

Age: 39

Family: wife, Janet; children, Thomas, 8, and Mary Jane, 5

Education: Bachelor’s degree, political science, Clemson; master’s degree, public administration, USC

Community involvement: chairman, Richland County Democratic Party; former volunteer youth coach at YMCA and North Trenholm Baptist Church; Crime Watch captain, Hampton Trace neighborhood; Family Matters Sunday School Class, Shandon Presbyterian Church

From his nomination: “He is widely respected among his peers and those he meets professionally and politically. He is recognized as an individual with the integrity and ability to inspire others and influence business.” — Henry Roe, Colliers Keenan Inc.

Your nomination calls you a “man to watch” in S.C. politics. What does that mean? Summers became chairman of the Richland County Democratic Party in March. His term will end in 2010, when, he says, he’ll decide whether to try again for the chairmanship or to run for political office. In 2006, Summers lost a race against longtime S.C. Rep. Jim Harrison. “I think if the opportunity presents itself, I would run for office again (rather than work in the background). I didn’t seek the chairmanship of the Democratic party, (but) it’s been one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.”

Do you have any good skeletons in your closet? No. “I ran a SLED check on myself before I ran” and didn’t find any.

Your education was in politics, yet you work full time in real estate. What’s the draw? “The business really suits me. It’s a business built on relationships, networking and marketing.”

What’s your passion? “Politics and good government.”

Do you live by a particular mantra or philosophy? “(My parents) taught me from an early age that to whom much is given, much is expected . . . to give to charities, to work to make our community stronger and to be a force for good.”

What’s ahead for the country? “2009 (is) going to be a tough year and as businessmen, we each are going to have to focus on our niches and do what we do best . . . to focus on what you know is important. … This industry will have to adapt and do the best we can.”

His job: Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

Age: 34

Family: wife, Christy; children, Abby, 5; and Katie, 2

Education: Bachelor’s degree, political science, USC (Honors College); law degree, USC

Community involvement: Board chair, Lexington Medical Center; vice chair, Board of Visitors, USC; member, Board of Visitors, Medical University of South Carolina; former board member, Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter; founding member, Young Carolinians Board, S.C. Historical Society; Waterfront Steering Committee; executive council, Indian Waters Council, Boy Scouts of America; S.C. Supreme Court Committee on Character and Fitness; Section of Business Law, American Bar Association; former chair, business law committee, ABA Young Lawyers Division; selection committee, S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice Excellence in Community Justice Award; recipient, Beyond Pro Bono Award, Richland County Court-Appointed Special Advocates

From his nomination: “Thad’s leadership abilities, integrity and business sense are all reasons he has been tapped for the many civic services he performs willingly.” — William Hubbard, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough

What do you hope to contribute to young people? “I have been blessed with good parents, good teachers and mentors in my community that cared about my well-being. I’ve learned a lot from all of them, and as I get older I feel compelled to share those same lessons with young people.”

What lessons did your father, the late 11th Circuit Judge Marc Westbrook, teach you that have stuck with you? “1. Take care of your family. They’re depending on you. 2. Show respect for everyone, regardless of their status or station in life. 3. Don’t settle for mediocrity. … On my desk at work, I have a plaque that he displayed in his office until he passed away. Inscribed on it is the following quote from Daniel Webster: ‘The law: It has honored us, may we honor it.’ ”

Do you live by a personal philosophy or mantra? “When I entered high school and started thinking about higher education and my career, I found the following quote from Benjamin E. Mays instructive: ‘It must be borne in mind that the tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.’ As for my career, this is a guiding principle upon which I continue to rely.”

If you could solve one problem, what would it be? “Access to health care. … There are many facets to providing greater access to health care and it is more complicated than simply saying we should spend more money or just allow the federal government to take over the entire health-care system. We should explore opportunities to expand public-private partnerships and do more to help health-care providers practice preventative medicine.”