Top 20 Under 40 2022-2023

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JULIA SIMS-OWENS,37

Minister of Music at Bethesda Church of God, Lower School Music Teacher at Wilson Hall

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? 23 years

What did you want to be when you grew up? A singer

Educational background: Bachelor of arts in communication from Charleston Southern University

What inspired you to take your career path? Both of my parents are very musically inclined. Music has always been a part of my life, and my parents have always been supportive of me following my passion and dreams.

Favorite part of your day: Anytime I can be with my family

Favorite restaurant: Hamptons

Best place for a work lunch: Mariachi’s

Perfect date night: Dinner and music, or dinner and an escape room

Best place to take the kids:

Swan Lake Iris Gardens and the Sumter Opera House

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit? Swan Lake Iris Gardens

A local hidden gem: The Sumter Military Museum

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned:

Enough is never enough. Go the extra mile. Volunteer/community/civic engagement: I work with children, teens, adults and senior adults in various capacities throughout the year in an effort to give back to our community.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! What’s a fish without i’s? … fssshh. Anything else you want people to know about you?

I am blessed with the best husband in the world, Howie Owens, my parents, the Revs. Al and Jackie Sims, and the two most precious children I

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could ever ask for, Sims, 9, and Anna-Jane, 6. We love cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks, traveling, singing together, taking walks and game nights.

DANA LENOIR,30

Owner of Destinations Spa

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? Born and raised

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up, I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do. I just knew I wanted to be in a field where I could express my creativity.

Educational background:

2011 graduate of Esthetics International

What inspired you to take your career path?

I have always loved the thought of helping people look and feel their best.

Favorite part of your day: Seeing my clients’ face light up when they look in the mirror for the first time after I’ve finished their makeup.

Favorite restaurant: J. O’Grady’s

Best place for a work lunch: Bakers Sweets

Perfect date night: Millpond Steakhouse

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Our downtown has grown significantly in the last few years. There are a lot of great places to visit, including the Sumter Original Brewery, which is fun for all ages.

A local hidden gem: Lilfred’s

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Never give up on your dreams. The day-to-day stuff seems hard, but it gets easier over time.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

I am a member of Young Professionals of Sumter and enjoy volunteering when time allows.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke!

Why does Snoop Dogg carry an umbrella? Fo Drizzle.

Anything else you want us to know about you?

I have a wonderful and supportive husband who keeps life interesting, three girls and a three-legged Boykin Spaniel named Rowdy.

SHELBIE GOULDING,25

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News and Newsletter Editor for The Sumter Item

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there?

Three years. I’m an Indiana native.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A fashion designer. My grandma and I used to draw and design beautiful ball gowns when I visited her in Tennessee as a kid.

Educational background: I graduated from Kent State University in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in journalism.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I had to take a writing course my freshman year at Kent State, and midway through the semester, my professor pulled me aside and said I had the potential to be a great writer in the future. He urged me to switch my major from fashion to journalism. No regrets!

Favorite part of your day: That first sip of coffee in the morning.

Favorite restaurant: Wine Wednesdays at Hamptons

Best place for a work lunch: The Sumter Item crew typically does a “lunch walk” to Brubaker’s Café & Bakery and/or Bakers Sweets Bistro & Bakery. We’re journalists. We don’t have time to sit!

Perfect date night:

Staying in with good food, wine to pair and a mean game of Scrabble. Where must newcomers or out-oftowners go/visit?

Swan Lake Iris Gardens and Sumter Original Brewery. It’s not every day you see a small town have a brewery and a leveltwo arboretum in its backyard.

A local hidden gem:

The annual Backcountry Oyster Roast at the Sumter County Museum

Advice for other young professionals/ one career takeaway you’ve learned:

Always be willing to learn. Get involved with as much as you can while you can. If an opportunity presents itself, take it. And surround yourself with people who bring out the best version of yourself.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

Palmetto

I am a member of the SumterPalmetto Rotary Club. I am a graduate of the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce’s 2021-22 Leadership Sumter class and a board member of Young Professionals of Sumter.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! What is one good thing about Indiana? All the corny jokes.

Anything else you want people to know about you? I’m an avid hiker, coffee enthusiast and a cat mom to a black feline named Max.

KELVIN HASTIE,32

System Admin/Registrar, Bus Driver and Junior Class Advisor at Crestwood High School

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? Since birth. Sumter is my sweet home!

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to join the United States

Educational background:

A proud product of Sumter School District. University of Phoenix graduate. Currently pursuing a business degree online with the Columbia International University

What inspired you to take your career path? My mother inspired me to take a career path in education. As a pre-K teacher, she loved educating children. As result, I developed a passion for working with children.

Favorite part of your day:

Every part! I believe in making every second of the day a memorable moment.

Favorite restaurant: Outback Steakhouse

Best place for a work lunch: Be Fit Eat Fit

Perfect date night:

Enjoying dinner while listening to a live music concert!

Best place to take the kids: Skate Station

Where must newcomers or out-oftowners go/visit? Swam Lake Iris Gardens

A local hidden gem: 803 Nutrition

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Dream big! If you can believe it, you can achieve. You interview every time

you rise and go about your day. In everything you do, give it your best. Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

I am a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., founder and director of the W.A.I.T. Community ChoirSumter SC, volunteer with the Paxville Community Center food distribution program, member of the Kingdom MPact Worship Center (musician).

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! Your mom is so crazy; she thought a quarterback was a refund!

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I’m the proud uncle of one niece (Mariah Hastie) and godfather of two sons (Jacori Wright and Micah Holmes). I love music! I’ve been playing piano since the age of 6.

MONICA D.REID, 39

County of residence: Clarendon

How long have you lived there?

Most of my life

What did you want to be when you grew up?

An English professor (largely thanks to my former English teacher and friend, the late Coach Rick Coker)

Educational background: MBA from USC Aiken; Bachelor of Science in Business from Southern New Hampshire University

What inspired you to take your career path?

I love helping people. Doing what I do every day as an optician, I help people see better. The eyes are the way we see the world, and I love being a part of that for so many people over the years. I love that my patients trust me, and it has inspired me to always be learning and improving in ways to serve them better.

Favorite part of your day: Connecting with my patients and associates at work and then going home to be with my family.

Best place for a work lunch: Shoney’s or Porter Jacks in Manning

Perfect date night: Dinner and a walk in Swan Lake

Best place to take the kids: Gibbons Street Park

Where must newcomers or outof-towners go/visit? Downtown Sumter

A local hidden gem: Lake Marion

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Be a servant to others. If you are a leader, people will tell you to be firm and not to be too nice, but I have found more joy and reward in serving those I lead. Be the person in someone’s life that you would want to have in yours. Also, maintain a good work-life balance. It’s so important!

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.; Lions International; Legislative delegate for Clarendon County First Steps; School Improvement Council; and anywhere I can help!

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! Why is a computer so smart? Because it listens to its MOTHERboard :)

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I love spending time with my family, and we are always finding fun things to do whether it’s dinner, traveling together or an outing at the museum or zoo. We have three dogs: Fluffy, Widow and Bullet. One of my favorite things to do is reading. I love a good sci-fi or time travel book. I’m not huge on sports, but when I rep a team it’s definitely garnet and black! I also like painting and writing in my free time, which isn’t often but it is where I find my peace to explore my imagination or to unpack my internal dialogue.

GRACE SURETTE,27

Owner and Operator of Magnolia & Grace

How long have you lived in Clarendon County?

I was born and raised in Clarendon County.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I envisioned some sort of job helping children, which is why I started my career as a teacher at Manning Junior High School before transitioning into owning my business.

Educational background:

I am a graduate of Manning High School Class of 2014 and an alumna of Coastal Carolina University Class of 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with a focus in child life development.

What inspired you to take your career path? I was living life vicariously through other business owners, and I took the leap of faith to transform a hobby into a career.

Favorite part of your day: I love the mornings. I’ve opened Magnolia & Grace’s doors with my first cup of coffee in hand, lit my candle, turned my music up and Bentley and I are eagerly waiting to greet our visitors.

Favorite restaurant:

It all depends on what I’m craving that day.

Best place for a work lunch: Trying out any of our locally owned restaurants in downtown Manning. Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

The Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce for all the information you need on where to eat, drink, explore and learn about everything in Clarendon County.

A local hidden gem: The Santee Dam on the edge of the Santee River and Lake Marion, it has a breathtaking view of wildlife, water and so much more.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Go after your dreams, even if they scare you. Always remember on the toughest days that you’re still living your dreams and you’ve survived your worst days!

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: My favorite nonprofit is Camp Happy Days. This camp hosts a week-long camp down at Camp Bob Cooper for children and their siblings who have or who have had cancer. It’s an amazing experience that I am so thankful to be a part of.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

Most people may know that I am a Coastal grad, but they may not know I was a Teal Trailblazer-Tour Guide there. I loved it! I shared with visitors how I came to love my campus and encouraged them to become a Chanticleer themselves.

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My “Fantastic Four” family plays a huge part in my life. My mom (Janene), dad (Pete Jr.) and brother (Jesse) are my biggest supporters. My mom is always there to help decorate and run the store when I’m not there. The three of them, after a little bit of negotiating at times, are always helping me build whatever crazy designs I come up with for the store. They help make my crazy dreams come alive. They’re there on my best days, as well as my toughest.

huge helping

STERLING TA'BON,27

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there?

Lived in Sumter until I went off to college in N.C. and moved back in 2020.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I honestly did not know what occupation I wanted as a kid, but I did know I wanted to be able to make an impact on lives.

Educational background:

I attended Campbell University, graduated in 2018 with BS in exercise science and kinesiology and received my Master of Science in Public Health at Campbell University School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2020 concentrating on rural communities and the youth impacted by their specific social determinants of health.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I stumbled into the ideas and philosophies of public health.

Prior to

graduate school, I was studying to be an occupational therapist. Public health allowed me to use science and research to explain lived experiences of the community I grew up in and work in now. I had a passion for serving people, my studies just equipped me with opportunities to pursue ideas past paperwork and into tangible realities. The work I do with youth and in health wellness allows me to walk through a divided world, knowing that, no matter culture or color, everyone wants the best for their children if given the opportunity to do so.

Favorite part of your day: Waking up

Favorite restaurant: I’m going to go with Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Kitchen Downtown.

Best place for a work lunch: I’d slide by J. O’Grady’s if I am in town.

Perfect date night: Downtown Sumter is pretty solid for a good date. Sidebar to the brewery is nice.

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Jehovah Missionary Baptist Church

County of residence: Sumter

A local hidden gem: The library

Advice for other young professionals/ one career takeaway you’ve learned: I’m still learning, but I’d say be confident in yourself, be confident in your mission, and be confident in your people.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement: Sumter Community Relations Council, Youth Leadership with JMBC, Staff for American Legion’s Palmetto Boy’s State. Anything else you want people to know about you? I want people to take their barriers, kick them down and turn them into the bridge that is needed to connect us all.

JOSH JENNINGS,

How long have you lived there? Four years What did you want to be when you grew up? Lawyer

Educational background:

H.S. diploma – Wilson Hall, 2011; bachelor's degree in history – University of South Carolina, 2014; M.Ed. in instructional accommodation –Francis Marion University, 2016; M.A. in English – Southern New Hampshire University, 2019; M.Ed. in literacy studies – Coker University, 2020; Ed.D. in curriculum studies – University of South Carolina, expected Summer 2023

What inspired you to take your career path? I owe a great debt to many of my teachers and coaches over the years as these individuals helped mold me into the person I am today. Their example made me want to be part of this next generation of educators that inspires students to achieve things they deemed unimaginable prior to stepping foot on campus.

Favorite part of your day: Greeting students in the hallways

Favorite restaurant: Willie Sue’s Best place for a work lunch: Bakers Sweets

Perfect date night:

Dinner and a movie before heading home to sit on our back porch and talk Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Sumter Original Brewery

A local hidden gem: Brubaker's Café & Bakery

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: My advice would be to never shy away from opportunities to advance in your profession, even if the new role might initially seem daunting.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

I recently served as the founding chairman of our district’s teacher forum. This role allowed me to advocate for changes to improve our teachers’ and students’ learning experience.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! "What did the ocean say to the beach?" "Nothing, it just waved."

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I love watching Major League Baseball, especially when the Atlanta Braves are playing well!

TIFFANY REED, 34

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Program Coordinator at SC Department of Corrections

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there?

15 years

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Psychologist or law enforcement officer

Educational background: Bachelor’s degree in business administration and health care management; goal to complete master’s in psychology and eventually doctorate

What inspired you to take your career path?

My belief in justice, the opportunity for rehabilitation and being part of the change.

Favorite part of your day: Talking on the phone with friends during my hour drive home after work.

Favorite restaurant: Cut Rate

Best place for a work lunch: Publix, love their subs

Perfect date night: Night in cooking supper together and watching movies.

Best place to take the kids: Our pool

Where must newcomers or outof-towners go/visit?

Sumter Original Brewery and Swan Lake Iris Gardens

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: When applying for jobs, do not be discouraged by “rejection” letters. Everything truly does happen for a reason. There is a better opportunity coming.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Currently, my occupation. Previously, Girl Scouts, Sunday School, MOPS, PTA.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke! Why shouldn’t you let Elsa hold your balloon?... Because she’ll LET IT GOOOO LET IT GOOOO.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I couldn’t be prouder of the humans my daughter and two sons are becoming. Blessed beyond words to be their momma and watch them continue to grow. Love you, Rochelle, Brayden and Blake!

Orthodontist at Washington Orthodontics

KENT WASHINGTON, 30

County of residence:

Richland

How long have you lived there?

28 years

Educational background: B.S. in business from The Citadel, D.D.S. from Howard University, orthodontic certificate from Howard University

What inspired you to take your career path?

My dad

Favorite part of your day: Interacting with patients and getting to learn more about them.

Best place for a work lunch:

Chick-fil-A, Douggie Dogs

Best place to take the kids: Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit? Swan Lake Iris Gardens

A local hidden gem: Guignard Diner

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Don’t be afraid to take risks. Bet on yourself. If you treat people well, they will take care of you.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Give Kids a Smile, Special Olympics

Anything else you want people to know

about you?

Always pull for the Gamecocks and Citadel

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? 36 years

Educational background:

Bachelor of Science in exercise science from the University of South Carolina and a certificate in cardiovascular ultrasound from the MUSC School of Cardiovascular Diagnostics.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I had intentions of going to physical therapy school after undergrad but lost interest halfway through. Not wanting to get into more debt, I continued my education in exercise science. I had to take a lot of anatomy/physiology classes and really learned to love everything pertaining to the heart and vascular system. I graduated with my undergrad two months into the Great Recession and was desperate for work. I worked as an armed security guard at Shaw Air Force Base for two years until I was accepted into CV ultrasound school. I have been a cardiovascular ultrasound technologist for a little over 10 years now.

Best place to take the kids:

Any of the numerous ball fields in Sumter, WilliamsBrice Stadium or The Beacon for a great movie.

A local hidden gem:

Sumter Little Theatre. Our locals really put on some great productions throughout the year.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned:

Always treat your patients/clients/customers how you would want your mother, father or spouse to be treated. If you keep this mentality, you will receive incredible blessings that outnumber your career successes.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

I have coached 4:13 league soccer at Westside Baptist Church for three seasons and have coached t-ball and coaches pitch baseball for PARD on and off for the past four years.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

Favorite part of your day:

The evenings when I can spend time with my wife and children.

Perfect date night:

Seeing a new place, eating at a restaurant for the first time, or just heading to the family farm by ourselves to get fresh air and quiet time away from the kids.

JASON E. HARDING, 36 HAILEY MILES WINDHAM, 31

My wife, Lee Anna, and I have three sons: Jace, Luke and Parker. We have two long-haired dachshunds: Penny Lane and Eleanor Rigby (Ellie). We love to watch our boys compete in various sports or perform in music recitals. We are all huge Carolina Gamecock fans! My wife and I really enjoy trivia at Sumter Original Brewery on Wednesday nights when we are able to go. Our family, friends and faith are all very important to us.

Financial Crimes Investigation Of cer at SAFE Federal Credit Union

County of residence: Clarendon

How long have you lived there?

I've lived between Clarendon and Sumter counties all my life.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

High school English/theater teacher

Educational background:

Graduated from Clarendon Hall in 2009 and attended Central Carolina Technical College before I joined the workforce. Earned my certified financial crimes specialist designation in May 2022.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I began my career in banking as a teller in 2014. In 2015, I was promoted to the bookkeeping department and eventually was responsible for overseeing deposit operations functions. While deposit operations came natural for me, what challenged and intrigued me was debit card fraud. What started out as processing Reg E/debit card disputes quickly turned into a passion for researching ways to mitigate and prevent fraud. I was tired

of standing by idly while fraudsters took advantage of unsuspecting victims. With no real way of connecting with and educating my community, I knew I needed to learn as much as I could to prevent the fraud from happening.

Favorite part of your day: When my teammates and I have successfully detected and prevented a fraudster from attempting to steal from one of our members!

Best place for a work lunch:

I must admit I'm guilty of too often eating a quick lunch at my desk while watching a training or attending a webinar. However, I LOVE going out to lunch anywhere. Any chance to get away, unplug and connect with a colleague, you can count me in.

Perfect date night:

Any date night with my husband. Whether we're going out somewhere with our children, having a bonfire with our friends or just the two of us getting dressed up. Best place to take the kids: Their grandparent’s house, of course!

Where must newcomers or out-oftowners go/visit?

Dubose Family Christmas Lights off Old Manning Road right down from Skate Station. (Make sure you go when Santa is there.)

A local hidden gem:

The Gift Shop at Mcleod Health Clarendon

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Don’t define your purpose based on your tasks. Find what fuels your passion, be patient and bring your creativity with you to the table!

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

Member of several anti-fraud initiatives: InfraGard National Members Alliance, The Knoble Network and International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I am a Gamecock fan! Even if we’re still in our rebuilding years, nine years later! I am also a HUGE fan of brownies.

Hospice Liaison at Amedisys Hospice and PRN at McLeod Health Clarendon as a Cardiovascular Sonographer

IESHIA FARMER,

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? My whole life

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be an English professor.

Educational background:

2001 graduate of Sumter High School, 2005 graduate of South Carolina State University (BA in English) and currently enrolled at Columbia International University (MA Educational Leadership)

What inspired you to take your career path?

My eighth-grade English teacher, Mrs. Debbie Jackson, was the first person to tell me that I was good at writing. She gave me a confidence that I did not know existed. Ever since that moment, I always knew that I would be in education. However, I always envisioned myself just working in the classroom. I had no goals of becoming more than an educator. After starting my teaching career at Bates Middle School, my former principal, Mr. Anthony Graham, shared with me that I had potential for more than the classroom. It took a few years before I accepted that, but God definitely orchestrated the entire process.

Favorite part of your day:

It’s a tie between early morning, right before the sun rises, and evening, when I have time to reset and breathe.

Best place for a work lunch: Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Kitchen

Perfect date night:

Something more intimate like a long drive or walk/talk on the beach.

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Swan Lake Iris Gardens

A local hidden gem:

Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned:

Always be open to learning from those who came before you. Wisdom is found in their experiences.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

I have participated in and led several community service efforts as a former Miss Plus America Pageant Organization, Incorporated title holder, to Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy, to Esther’s Jewels. Many efforts included giveaways for youth and women, volunteering and speaking to women and girls at various events in Sumter and surrounding areas.

Give us your best Mom/Dad joke!

“Dear Math, grow up and solve your own problems.”

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I love all things SC State University! I’m a huge music fan, and most of the music that I love was recorded before I was born. I’m very passionate about inspiring other women to pursue their goals and dreams.

MATTHEW WILKIE, 34

Owner and Psychotherapist at The Well Counseling Services LLC

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? My entire life

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Growing up I always wanted to be a medical doctor or lawyer — never in a million years would I have believed I would become a psychotherapist. But I truly love what I do.

Educational background:

BA from USC in English and history; MSW from USC College of Social Work

What inspired you to take your career path?

After my father passed away suddenly, I entered grief therapy and began asking the clinician questions about educational requirements and schooling.

Favorite part of your day: My favorite part of the day is going home and seeing my wife and three dogs. Soon that’ll change, and it’ll be seeing my little girl.

Favorite restaurant:

Di Vino Rosso & Motor Supply in Columbia

Perfect date night: Perfect date night for me is dinner and quality time. I am a foodie, so I enjoy fine dining and trying new things. But every night with my wife is a date night for me.

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit?

Bethesda Church of God, Simply Southern Bistro, Swan Lake and downtown.

A local hidden gem: Sylvia Joe’s

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned:

Never share your story with just anyone — especially if your healing is determined by how they respond. Not everyone is safe.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Chamber of Commerce Porch’s Committee; Young Professionals of Sumter; Sumter Behavioral Health Services Board of Directors chairman; USC Sumter board member; Bethesda Church of God minister of prayer. Member of Sumter Partnership of the USC Educational Foundation Board, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of Christians in Social Work, South Carolina Society of Clinical Social Workers, The International Center for Emotion-Focused Therapy and NAADAC — The Addiction Professional Organization.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I am married to the most beautiful woman in the whole wide world, Dr. Amber Wilkie. We are soon to be proud parents to a baby girl and currently have three dogs — a yorkie poo, labradoodle and cockapoo. We love Carolina football and spending time in the mountains or at Disney.

PROF. JEFFREY L. LAMPKIN, 39

Owner and Operator, Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Kitchen; Deputy Coroner/ PIO, Richland County Coroner's Of ce; On-Air Personality, 101.3 FM The Big DM; Marketing Director, Lampkin Law Firm; Worship Leader, Grace Cathedral Ministries; Director, Francis Marion University YGB Gospel Choir

Educational background:

I am a proud member of the 2000 class of Manning High School. I received my bachelor's degree in sociology and church music in 2005 from Newberry College and received my master's degree in human resources management from Webster University in 2008.

What inspired you to take your career path?

GOD! God literally showed me early on in life that I was gifted with various talents. He’s always crafted me to be out of the box and to have impact in multiple arenas. God has been my GPS throughout my entire career, and what’s crazy, He keeps speaking new ideas and visions to me.

Favorite part of your day: Morning time. It's when I’m the most clear, the news is going, and there is peace.

Favorite restaurant:

Of course, it’s Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Kitchen. What else could it be? I dare not say anything else!

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go?

They must go to Swan Lake Iris Gardens, stop by Grace Cathedral Ministries or William’s Chapel Christian

Church for some good church, and then eat at Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy Kitchen or D & H Bar B Que.

A local hidden gem:

Mill Pond SteakHouse is hands down one of the best steakhouses in South Carolina.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Always be teachable and adjustable, and you’ll never become outdated or irrelevant. If you don’t allow God to send people in your life to guide and mentor you, you’ll take the long way to get to your destiny.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

The Bishopville-Manning-Shaw AFB (SC) Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi; member of the Columbia Branch of the NAACP; executive board member of the Workshop Theatre of South Carolina; director, The Jeffrey and Harriet Lamokin Foundation

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I’m married to an amazing wife, Harriet Lampkin, ESQ. I have one pet chihuahua, Diamond Elizabeth

BRITTANY TINDAL,38

Producer with CRW Insurance

County of residence: Clarendon

How long have you lived there?

16 years, but I am originally from Sumter

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A veterinarian

Educational background:

Graduated from Wilson Hall and from Clemson University

What inspired you to take your career path?

I love to find solutions. I am a “fixer and a busy body.” So, I love to review insurance policies and see how I can help someone find the best coverage and the best rates. Of course, there is never a dull moment with insurance, so I get to stay very busy.

Favorite part of your day:

I love days when I have an outside appointment. I get to see businesses and industries and how they operate on the inside that normally you would not have access to see.

Favorite restaurant: Pawleys Island Raw Bar

Best place for a work lunch:

J. O’Grady’s in Sumter or Mill Street Grill in Manning

Perfect date night:

Having drinks on a boat ride

Best place to take the kids/Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/A local hidden

gem:

I think these three go together – I recommend Swan Lake if you are in Sumter or Lake Marion in Manning where there are several parks, wildlife refuges and camps.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned:

I can't narrow it to one, I have three: 1) Find what you are passionate about and incorporate that into your career. Be “all in,” and if you aren’t, find a new job. 2) Be confident but not arrogant. 3) Stand up for yourself, but be respectful.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

I am a member and a past president of the Optimist Club of Clarendon County where I enjoy helping local youth. One of my favorite things we do is sponsor a young person to attend law enforcement camp, but that is only one of the many things we do as “Friend of Youth.”

doesn’t matter your belief, but we’re all God’s children and were created by Him. Therefore, in everything I do, my goal is to love God’s people and make His name great!

Anything else you want people to know about you? I don’t have any horses at the moment, which is odd as I always had horses for 26 years of my life. But I do have my backyard chickens and two Jack Russell Terriers. My husband, Stan, and I have one daughter, Anna Lynn, who is in fifth grade at Laurence Manning Academy. We are huge Clemson Tiger fans, and if I had to be any other place than at Lake Marion, it would be back close to Clemson.

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there? 32 Years

What did you want to be when you grew up? Growing up, I could never settle on one profession. It changed with my interests. I went back and forth between a doctor, artist or a real estate agent.

GRANT MENDELSON WATSON III,32

Marketing Manager at Simpson ACE Hardware and Sporting Goods

Educational background: Bachelor of Science, Business Administration in Marketing Management – Western Governor’s University

What inspired you to take your career path? Marketing wasn’t my first choice for a career. It was something that I grew into during my time with Simpsons. Being able to see a message or visual that I help create or personally created in or outside of Sumter was very cool to me. From there, my interest grew into the more intricate side of marketing.

Favorite restaurant: Steak 48 in Charlotte

Best place for a work lunch: Yucatan

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit? Simpson Hardware and Sporting Goods on

DANE GRIFFIN, 38

Plant Controller at Continental Tire

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there?

I’m originally from Sumter and grew up here. However, I left for a long stint in Chicago and a brief stint in Atlanta due to career opportunities.

Educational background: BS in accounting from The Citadel, MBA from Indiana University Kelley School of Business

What inspired you to take your career path?

I’ve always wanted to be a part of a successful business or winning team. Being able to contribute to a large, multinational company that can have a positive impact on the lives of so many people in my community is incredibly appealing to me.

Favorite part of your day:

This one is tough—I have two. The one that happens first is at 9 a.m., and it’s where the team and I discuss our objectives and challenges for the day (and so much more). The controlling and accounting team at Continental is truly amazing, and I am blessed to be able work with such a strong group of individuals. The second time is a soon as I get home. I

have an amazing family who still greets me at the door like I’m Superman when I come home. It’s comforting knowing that whatever blunders may have occurred during the day that I have that waiting for me. My incredible wife and three children are my safety net in more ways than I can count.

Perfect date night:

Night games at Williams Brice. My wife and I are both avid Carolina fans, so she would be in complete alignment with this one.

Best place to take the kids:

Anywhere outside. We have been blessed to live in a community that cares about and invests in its parks and rec departments, and my kids have benefited from that.

Where must newcomers or out-oftowners go/visit?

Our downtown has continued to develop, and I would encourage out-of-towners to spend some time frequenting the restaurants and shops along Main Street. The downtown and Main Street of Sumter today is different than what I experienced as a kid, and I think it’s something people should experience.

Wesmark, of course! But also, our revitalized downtown area! The projects and businesses that have been brought there over the past couple of years is really helping to attract out-of-town visitors as well as helping residents rediscover Sumter. A local hidden gem: Sumter’s awesome parks. Poinsett State Park, Patriot Park and Palmetto Park are a few of my favorites.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: My advice to other young professionals is to always be willing to learn. There is always something new to learn out there. Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. If you make one, dust yourself off, learn and grow from them.

I

A local hidden gem: I think Sumter itself is a hidden gem. While not perfect, I wouldn’t trade the community and the people for anything in the world. Living in different areas of the country as well as internationally, I have continually been drawn back to this area primarily due to the strong sense of community here.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Learn as much as you can about anything and everything when you get the opportunity. I’ve found that having a broad base of experiences and different ways of doing things has always been beneficial in my career. In that same vein, I would tell them to humbly pursue selfimprovement each day and that the opportunities would work themselves out long-term.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: Youth Leadership at Sumter First Church of God, Tuomey Fellows program starting Sept. 27.

ARIEL WILKIE FLOYD,31

QA

Director of Communications at Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce

County of residence: Sumter

Educational background: Bachelor of Arts in English literature from the University of South Carolina. In spring of 2023, I will graduate with an Master of Arts in English and creative writing from Southern New Hampshire University.

What inspired you to take your career path?

Initially, I taught English at the high school level, and while I loved my students and coworkers, I realized I enjoyed creating visuals and writing for myself more. My husband saw the job posting for the Chamber, I applied, came on as membership director and transitioned into director of communications. This job combines my love for Sumter and graphic design, and I get the opportunity to be creative and pioneer programs.

Favorite part of your day: Coming home to my boys.

Favorite restaurant: I refuse to pick just one! I love all types of cuisine

Perfect date night: "April 25. It’s not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket."

Best place to take the kids: Patriot Park’s new playground or Poinsett State Park

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/visit? Backcountry at the Sumter Museum

A Local hidden gem: Demara’s Italian Restaurant

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned:

County of residence: Sumter

How long have you lived there?

On-and-off since 2008

Educational background: I graduated from Sumter Christian School here in Sumter for high school. I went to Anderson University for a bachelor's in English-creative writing; the University of Maine in Orono for a master's in English-composition and pedagogy; and I am currently attending the University of South Carolina for a doctorate in education in educational practice and innovation.

your best. Striving to be the best is a race you will never

There is a difference between being the best and being your best. Striving to be the best is a race you will never win. Working toward being the best version of yourself will open your world in ways you didn’t know existed.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement:

Sumter chair for Clemson AG Tour (coming May 2023); board secretary for SHE-See Her Empowered; board secretary for Young Professionals of Sumter; planning committee member for Sumter Senior Services; provisional member of the Sumter Junior Welfare League; Altar Ministry for Bethesda Church of God.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I love the Lord, and I am thankful for the blessings he has poured out on me. My family is extremely important to me. The ways in which they love and support me are unmatched. Also, I’ve spent most of my graduate program writing poems (my chosen avenue) and hope to publish them within the next few years because anything is possible if you work hard enough.

MITCHELL HERRING,29

Curriculum Coordinator at Central Carolina Technical College

What inspired you to take your career path?

Three educators have impacted my career path: Mrs. Cindi Wallace at East Clarendon Middle School, Dr. Theresa Jones (now retired) from Anderson University and Nancy Bishop here at Central Carolina Technical College. Each of these women have propelled me forward and given me the time and space to be who I am today.

Favorite restaurant:

Thai House in Sumter has been my getaway since high school. A special memory was getting a love boat for two just for myself after a rough day at soccer practice.

Perfect date night: My favorite date nights are during the holidays: seeing a play at the Sumter Little Theatre before going through the Swan Lake Christmas lights. It feels like a Hallmark movie.

Best place to take the kids: For us? Petco.

Where must newcomers or out-of-towners go/ visit?

Plan a visit during a Sumter Little Theatre production to see some of Sumter’s best artists’ work.

A local hidden gem:

Not a hidden gem, but please use our local library. I have read so many books thanks to Libby, an eBook borrowing service; the library has so many resources folks are not always aware of.

Advice for other young professionals/one career takeaway you’ve learned: Like a good friend said, “There are no emergencies in higher education.” If you missed a deadline, it isn’t a moral failing and if you need a day off, you aren’t letting anyone down. No matter what “it” is, it will be all right.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement: I co-advise for CCTC’s Sexuality and Gender Acceptance student organization at the college where we create a dedicated and safe space for LGBTQ+ community members and allies. Each day I try to be the educator I needed when I was growing up. Anything else you want people to know about you? I live with my partner of five years, Daniel, who is a middle school drama teacher. We have two dogs, Chef and Banjo. Chef is a lovable mutt who is 2 years old and is the sweetest, most patient and kind dog I have ever met. Banjo is a 6-month-old basset-beagle mix and acts like it; however, even the wildest of puppies are a walk in the park for two educators.

Scenes from 2021

Photos by Cal Cary

Our 2022 awards banquet for the annual 20 Under 40 contest was held at Lavendar Fields Estate in Sumter. For photos, go to www. TheItem.com.

Here's a look back at our 2021 winners and their supporters.

Past 20 Under 40 Winners

Hall of Fame

Ashley Reddick

Antiqunette Dow

Alonzo McDonald

Katie LeBlanc

Taylor Daylami

Krissy Milan

Breanna Hughes

Austin Floyd

JT Duke

Shane Evenich

Karen Gaines

Ryan Dontaye Graham

Jillian Huckeba

Shanice King

Lewis H. Warr

Jason J. Montgomery

Torey Shannon

Mary Copeland Heath

David Ferrell

C. Scott Horton

Kyndra Johnson

Meagan Kuhlman

Thomas Langford

Yanet Lopez

Nicholas Martin

Andrew McCord

Drake McCormick

Sharease McDowell-Dwyer

Roderick McGee

Jacob Mullikin

Mironda Scott

Brooke Braswell

Aaron Green

Shretta Godbolt

Annie Rivers

Dashin Simmons

Adrienne Singletary

Shakeeya Sorrells

Janel Strieter

Maggie Weatherly