Meet the inaugural class of South Carolina’s 50 Most Influential business leaders

Discover the inaugural class of South Carolina’s 50 Most Influential business leaders who have provided insights and contributions while shaping South Carolina’s economic growth.

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SC State House | Photo via @the_wandering_jones

Meet the inaugural class of South Carolina’s 50 Most Influential business leaders , a few of which are from Columbia. These influential leaders collectively contribute to South Carolina’s economic success, showcasing diverse expertise and commitment to the state’s growth.

Get to know a few of Cola’s honorees who help shape SC’s economic landscape:

Bill Ellen | President and CEO, Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism / Experience Columbia SC

Jeff Ruble | Director of Economic Development, Richland County Economic Development

Lou Kennedy | President, CEO, and Owner, Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corp.

Mark O’Halla | President & CEO, Prisma Health

Michael Amiridis | President, University of South Carolina

Mike Gula | President/CEO, Columbia Metropolitan Airport

Roslyn Clark Artis | President, Benedict College

Tod Augsburger | President and CEO, Lexington Medical Center

Meet the rest of the 50 honorees .

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Sam is based in Columbia, SC and previously worked in PR marketing for several local brands and startups in the Soda City before joining COLAtoday as a City Editor in 2021. When she’s not content creating, she loves staying active, brunching around town, rooting for the Gamecocks, and spending time by the rivers.
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