FLORENCE – Former South Carolina Lt. Gov. Yancey McGill was named chairman of the North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) executive committee at the committee’s meeting November 2.
“I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to serve the people of the NESA region as chairman of the executive committee,” McGill said following the meeting, which was held on the campus of Francis Marion University. “This organization has done so much to further the quality of life by assisting these nine counties in economic development efforts. I am excited to continue this work as chairman.”
McGill, who previously served as the executive committee chairman for more than 15 years before stepping down in September 2015, was nominated by Sen. Luke Rankin (Horry), following his resignation as committee chairman.
“It has been my pleasure to serve as chairman for the past two years,” Rankin said. “But I know that Governor McGill’s leadership and passion for the organization will lead to nothing but great things for the Pee Dee and the Grand Strand.”
McGill praised Rankin for serving as NESA’s chairman during two of regions most successful years which led to a standing ovation from all in attendance.
“The unemployment rate in our region is at an all-time low,” McGill said. “Your leadership has guided us to where we are today and we all look forward to continuing to work with you as part of this committee moving forward.”
Rankin will remain a member of the committee. Following Rankin’s nomination of McGill, members of the executive committee – led by Sen. Hugh K. Leatherman (Florence) – elected McGill by acclamation.
The committee also reappointed three of its current members, Sen. Kent Williams (Marion), Mr. Fred DuBard and Mr. Doug Jennings, for additional three year terms.
In other business, S.C. Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt gave an update on how the state is doing and potential for growth in the NESA region. The organization also provided an overview of its quarterly activity – including business development, marketing and community relations. NESA is a regional, non-profit, economic development organization that serves nine counties in the northeastern corner of South Carolina. The organization’s primary objective is to create jobs for the residents of the region by working within the existing industry base and recruiting new companies.