Leadership Mount Pleasant
An immersive community leadership initiative by the
Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce
Launching January 2027
Leadership Mount Pleasant is a dynamic, community centered initiative designed to cultivate, connect, and elevate those who live, work, and serve in our town. Through curated experiences, meaningful dialogue, and direct engagement with local decision-makers, the program builds a shared investment in our community’s future. Each session offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the key elements shaping our town.
Operated through the Mount Pleasant Chamber Foundation (a 501(c)(3) organization), this initiative is rooted in strengthening our region through informed leadership and broad collaboration.
Our Mission: To equip and inspire leaders to make a positive impact on Mount Pleasant and beyond by deepening their understanding of the unique fabric that shapes our community.
Program Structure
- Launching January 2027
- Eight thoughtfully curated sessions hosted throughout Mount Pleasant
- Approximately 25 participants
- Interactive panels, site visits, and experiential learning
Program Commitment
Leadership Mount Pleasant is an immersive and collaborative experience. Cohort members are expected to prioritize attendance, actively engage in discussions and activities, and contribute positively to the cohort experience.
Program Cost: $2,000 for Mount Pleasant Chamber Members and $2,500 for Non-Members.
Scholarships: A limited number of scholarships are available to help cover tuition.
Session Focus Highlights
Cohort Kickoff: Connecting Leaders
Focus: Establishing a foundation for collaborative leadership
January 20th, 2027 - 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Hyatt House | Gather MTP
Session 1: Legacy & Leadership
Focus: Learning From our Legacy. Leading Toward our Future.
January 21st, 2027 - Full Day
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
Multiple Locations (Self-Travel Required)
Session 2: Local Government & Public Safety
Focus: Understanding How Government & Community Work Together
February 18th, 2027 - Full Day
Six Mile Public Service Facility | Mount Pleasant Town Hall & Emergency Operations Center
Multiple Locations (Self-Travel Required)
Session 3: Education & Workforce
Focus: Preparing People & Employers for Mount Pleasant’s Future
March 18th, 2027 – Full Day
East Cooper Center for Advanced Studies| Trident Technical College N. Charleston
Multiple Locations (Self-Travel Required)
Session 4: Economic Development & Business Climate
Focus: Sustaining a Strong Local Economy
April 22nd, 2027 – Full Day
SC Ports Authority
Session 5: Infrastructure, Housing & Environment
Focus: Planning for Growth While Protecting What Makes Mount Pleasant Special
May 20th, 2027 – Full Day
Alhambra Hall
Session 6: Healthcare & Human Services
Focus: Building a Community Where People Can Thrive
June 18th, 2027 – Full Day
Novant East Cooper Medical Center
Multiple Locations (Self-Travel Required)
Session 7: Hospitality & Tourism
Focus: Attracting Visitors, Growing Business, Strengthening our Economy
July 22nd, 2027 – Full DayPatriots Point | Shem Creek
Multiple Locations (Self-Travel Required)
Session 8: Leadership In Action
Focus: Community Impact Project Day
August 19th, 2027 – Full Day
The Harbor Entrepreneur Center
Graduation: Community Impact Showcase
Focus: Celebration, Reflection and Commitment
September 23rd, 2027 – 4:00-8:00 p.m.
Gather MTP
Why It Matters
- Connect: Strengthens relationships across sectors and industries.
- Inform: Builds a more engaged and knowledgeable community.
- Collaborate: Creates pathways for shared solutions.
- Develop: Empowers leaders committed to Mount Pleasant’s long-term success.
Leadership Mount Pleasant Advisory Members
Karina Garrison, Chair, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Benji Anderson, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Rick Arthur, Pinnacle Financial Partners
Vickey Boyd, Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce Ambassador
Matt Brady, Town of Mount Pleasant
Daniel Brownstein, Town of Mount Pleasant Councilman
John Carroll, Unlimited Performance
Christiane Farrell, Town of Mount Pleasant
David Ginn, Charleston Regional Development Alliance
Don Gordon, The Riley Institute
Dr. Troy Hall, Cohesion Culture
Rebecca Imholz, Executive Director, Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce
Jessica Munday, Trio Solutions
Caroline Rakar, Coastal Community Foundation
Amy Sutton, Moultrie News
Dr. Vicky Wood, Trident Technical College
Press
Moultrie News - 7/15/2026