Gov. Nikki Haley and the South Carolina Department of Commerce honored selected economic development leaders as South Carolina Ambassadors for Economic Development as part of Industry Appreciation Week.

The awards ceremony recognized 51 individuals from all 46 counties who contributed to economic development in their local communities.
Tommy Stephens was named Dillon County’s Economic Ambassador. Stephens has and continues to play a fundamental role for Economic Development in the Pee Dee area. He has established an industrial mega-site by contractually obtaining and retaining options to buy land from numerous land owners. He gives time and energy for the benefit of Dillon County and the workforce in the surrounding area. He is also an involved community leader and serves on many civic and charitable organizations, promoting Dillon County as a good place to live and raise a family.

The awards ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 17, at 4 p.m. at the Statehouse.
Industry Appreciation Week provides an opportunity to say “thank you” to companies in the state for their many contributions to our communities, as well as a chance to build awareness among the residents of South Carolina that existing business is a fundamental driver of both the local and state economy.