Sustain SC and The Shi Institute Celebrate the Graduation of the Fifth Class of Sustainability Leadership Initiative Fellows
Sustain SC, in partnership with the Shi Institute for Sustainable Communities at Furman University, is excited to announce the graduation of the fifth class of Sustainability Leadership Initiative (SLI) Fellows. This year’s cohort represents a dynamic mix of cross-sector leaders from across South Carolina. Since January, this group has engaged in a six-month experiential learning program designed to enhance skills and equip fellows to enact positive change in their organizations and communities.
Throughout the program, the cohort participated in engaging hands-on experiences across the state, exploring the impacts of sustainability in the industries they work in, and connecting with a diverse group of professionals dedicated to learning and growing.
“This group of fellows has been a joy to work with,” said Dr. Andrew Predmore, Executive Director of the Shi Institute for Sustainable Communities at Furman University. “SLI was created to empower leaders who are ready to tackle South Carolina’s sustainability challenges with both insight and integrity. This cohort has met every challenge with passion and co collaborative spirit, and I can’t wait to see the many positive impacts they’ll create for South Carolina.”
The curriculum provides a unique look at sustainability in action across South Carolina and provides hands on leadership education that prepares professionals to apply what they have learned in their organizations. “The SLI program effectively combines real-world examples, top-tier instruction and meaningful peer engagement to create a highly impactful learning experience,” said Peter Madden, Class 5 Fellow and President and CEO of the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities. “It challenges participants to think more strategically about sustainability while providing practical tools, diverse perspectives and a strong professional network that extends well beyond the SLI program itself.”
The Sustainability Leadership Initiative Class of 2026 was recognized on June 4 in Columbia, beginning with final presentations in the morning and concluding with a graduation ceremony and celebration at Stone River. Sustain SC CEO Leslie Skardon gave remarks to open the program and Dr. Predmore of the Shi Institute, who curated the program curriculum, reflected on the group’s connection and the experiences that shaped their time in the program.
The graduates were joined by alumni from the past four SLI cohorts whose presence serves as a testament to the growth and impact of SLI, and the statewide dedication to building a more resilient South Carolina.
“The graduation of SLI’s fifth class marks an important milestone for this program and for the growing network of leaders it continues to build across South Carolina,” said Leslie Skardon, CEO of Sustain SC. “This year’s Fellows brought energy, curiosity and a shared commitment to advancing solutions that benefit South Carolina. We are proud to welcome them into the SLI alumni network as they carry forward the collaborative leadership needed to shape a more resilient future for our state.”
Now entering its sixth cohort, the SLI program continues to foster a growing network of sustainability-minded professionals committed to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for South Carolina. Applications for the 2027 class open today, June 5, 2026. You can learn more about the SLI program and submit an application here.
This year’s graduates are:
Adam Gleason, Heritage Landcare
Alison Montgomery, Westervelt Ecological Services
Amy Collins, Lockhart Power
Beau Reynolds, Trane Technologies
Bryan Cordell, The Sustainability Institute
Catherine Hayes, South Carolina Research Authority
Clay Word, The Nature Conservancy
Dana Bauer, Open Land Trust
Darcy Coughlan, Sustain Coastal at Coastal Carolina University
Darrel Pendris, Milliken Advisors
Esther Adams, Center for Heirs’ Property
Griffin Muli, South Carolina Aquarium
Isreal Hodges, Scout Motors
Jenna Wyatt, Milliken & Company
Jessica Wilson, Carolinas Ready Mixed Concrete Association
Kay Self, VisionGreenwood
Lucas Messick, Halton MEI
Megan Copsey, BMW Manufacturing
Michelle LaRocco, Cirba Solutions
Monique McDaniels, Goodwill Industries of Upstate Midlands SC
Peter Madden, US Endowment for Forestry & Communities
Purva Mhatre, Sonoco
Samuel Packard, Siemens
Sarah Lyles, PalmettoPride
Congratulations to the Sustainability Leadership Initiative Class 6!