(Columbia, SC – May 2, 2024) Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) proudly hosted its 3^rd Annual Champions of Change event on May 1, 2024, at the USC Pastides Alumni Center in Columbia. The event, which coincided with GIUMSC’s 51^st birthday, served as a platform to honor individuals whose lives have been transformed through Goodwill’s education and training programs.

For over five decades, Goodwill has been a beacon of hope and opportunity, serving the Upstate and Midlands regions of South Carolina. With a presence across 16 counties, GIUMSC has been instrumental in fostering economic mobility and generational impact through the power of work.

This year’s Champions of Change event recognized exemplary individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions and achievements. Goodwill Associates throughout the organization nominate individuals and organizations that highlight the true essence of the GIUMSC mantra, “Goodwill To All!”. From these nominations, a committee selects the winners to honor. The distinguished award recipients were:

• Kristian Williams – Bill Hummers Mission Impact Award
• Rebecca Watts – William Wylie Job Connection Success Award
• Calvin Hill – Edgar J. Helms Community Partner Award
• Richland One Middle College – Cecil McFarland Employer Partner Award
• Andrew Scales – Tony Bell Champion Award
• Melanie Mize – Lloyd Auten Achiever of the Year Award

In addition to honoring remarkable individuals, GIUMSC also celebrated the dedication and commitment of long-serving associates and board members. The following individuals were recognized for their unwavering service:

• Associate Ella Shell – 20 Years
• Associate Charles Graham – 20 Years
• Associate Lionel Collins – 20 Years
• Associate Jane Morgan – 20 Years
• Associate Jeffery Watkins – 20 Years
• Board Member Robbie Robinson – 10 Years
• Board Member Chip Hunt – 10 Years

“We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of our Champions of Change and also recognize the dedication of our longstanding associates and board members,” said Pat Michaels, President and CEO of GIUMSC. “Their stories of perseverance, determination, and success inspire us all and reaffirm the transformative impact of Goodwill’s programs and services to our communities across South Carolina.”

The 3^rd Annual Champions of Change was presented in partnership with GIUMSC’s Mission Sponsor, STEMU, and was a testament to Goodwill’s commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and creating lasting change across the state.