Excellence in Nonprofit Awards

This year marks the first Excellence in Nonprofits Awards given by Integrated Media Publishing. The awards recognize nonprofit organizations that have gone above and beyond to exhibit leadership excellence, execute successful fundraising and awareness campaigns to support their community, and demonstrate innovative strategies to drive new mission-based initiatives all the while generating trust within its community and customers. We are excited to honor these dynamic individuals for their important work.

CEO of the Year

Large: Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina, Patrick Michaels

In his 32 years with Goodwill, Patrick “Pat” Michaels has had the opportunity to see the “Power of Work” firsthand for thousands of people throughout the United States.

Following his graduation from Central Washington University, Michaels served four years with the United States Army as Assistant Operations Officer, Company Executive Officer, and Company Commander. His success with increasing productivity and responsiveness, focusing on training, and decreasing involuntary separations foreshadowed the emphasis on workforce development later in his career.

After leaving the Army, Michaels joined Goodwill as the director of Goodwill Industries of the Yakima Valley in Washington. Michaels went on to serve as president of Goodwill Industries of South Central California (Bakersfield) and president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of New Mexico (Albuquerque) before accepting his current position as CEO of Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina (GIUMSC) in 2007.

In addition to his leadership at Goodwill, Michaels serves on the South Carolina Workforce Development Board, the Greenville County Workforce Development Board, and the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce Review Committee. He is also a graduate of Furman University’s Diversity Leaders Initiative and the Greenville Chamber’s Leadership Greenville program.

Michaels and his wife Linda live in the Upstate. They have three adult daughters.

Medium: South Carolina Children's Theatre, Katie O'Kelly Moritz

Katie O’Kelly Moritz deserves recognition as CEO/Director of the Year because she leads with heart, humanity, and an unwavering belief in the power of people. At the core of her leadership is a simple but profound value: when people are given access, trust, and space to belong, they do extraordinary things. Moritz has built an organization where that belief is felt both internally — by staff, artists, and partners — and externally — by the children and families SCCT serves every day. 

Under Moritz’ leadership, South Carolina Children’s Theatre is not just a place where theatre happens; it is a place where people are empowered. She has intentionally cultivated a culture where staff feel heard, supported, and trusted to lead with creativity and care. Internally, she creates room for collaboration, honesty, and growth, knowing that healthy, empowered teams are essential to meaningful community impact. 

Externally, Moritz is a passionate champion for accessibility and community engagement. She has been a driving force behind initiatives that remove barriers and open doors — scholarship programs, Title I ticket access, sensory-friendly viewing rooms, relaxed performances, and welcoming physical and digital spaces. Because of her leadership, SCCT has become a place where children of all abilities, backgrounds, and experiences can see themselves reflected and valued. 

Moritz consistently centers community voices, builds authentic partnerships, and reminds others why this work matters — especially on the hard days. She is not simply leading an organization forward; she is creating spaces where people feel empowered to belong, to grow, and to imagine a better future together.

Small: ACCESS FAVOR, Dr. Robyn "Renee" Causey

Dr. Renee Robyn Causey is a dedicated community leader, educator, and advocate who has worked tirelessly to address pressing social issues, foster educational opportunities, and support individuals in need.

One of Dr. Causey’s most impactful contributions to the community is her extensive work in the field of addiction recovery and overdose prevention. She played a pivotal role in a comprehensive study assessing the state of the heroin and opioid epidemic in the local area. This critical research provided an in-depth analysis of existing initiatives, identified service gaps, and proposed key recommendations to improve access to treatment and recovery resources. Her recommendations, which included securing state and local funding, enhancing public education, expanding peer support, and creating an Horry/Georgetown Continuum of Services, are actively being implemented by local government and service providers.

Beyond her work in addiction recovery, Dr. Causey has a deep passion for education and mentorship. As a professor in the Human Services program at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), she has dedicated herself to shaping the next generation of social service professionals. She was named HGTC’s 2017 Professor of the Year, a testament to her impact in the classroom and beyond.

Her community involvement extends to multiple service organizations, including ACCESS FAVOR, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals in recovery and advocating for social justice. As the chief executive officer (CEO) she works closely with law enforcement, public officials, and healthcare providers to create solutions that address the root causes of addiction, homelessness, and economic instability.

Her efforts have led to tangible improvements in public awareness, policy reform, and resource allocation, ultimately saving lives and strengthening the community. Whether through education, research, advocacy, or direct service, Dr. Causey’s impact is far-reaching, making her an exemplary candidate for the CEO of the Year nomination.

Board Member of the Year

Large: Trident United Way, Michael Samuel

Michael Samuel deserves recognition as Board Member of the Year for his exceptional leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to advancing the mission of Trident United Way. As chair of the Resource Development Council, Samuel plays a critical role in strengthening the organization’s fundraising strategy and expanding its network of supporters.

In his role, Samuel consistently leverages his professional expertise as a commercial banking relationship manager to identify, cultivate, and connect Trident United Way with prospective corporate partners and donors. He actively opens doors, facilitates meaningful introductions, and serves as a trusted ambassador for the organization, helping to grow both financial support and long-term partnerships.

Beyond fundraising, Samuel is a constant champion of Trident United Way’s mission. He brings passion, credibility, and thoughtful leadership to every conversation, ensuring the organization’s work remains visible and valued within the business community. His ability to authentically communicate the importance of financial stability and collective impact has strengthened relationships and inspired increased engagement among peers and partners.

Medium: South Carolina Children's Theatre, Matt Irwin

Matt Irwin deserves recognition as Board Member of the Year for the depth of heart, advocacy, and personal commitment he brings to South Carolina Children’s Theatre. As chair of the board, Irwin is not simply a steward of governance — he is a true champion of the mission and a powerful voice for why this work matters. 

Irwin frequently and openly shares how the arts saved him as a young person. That lived experience fuels everything he does for SCCT. He understands, on a deeply personal level, the life-changing impact that access to the arts can have, and he brings that perspective into every conversation, decision, and moment of advocacy. His leadership is grounded in empathy and belief — in the power of creativity to give children confidence, purpose, and hope. 

As board chair, Irwin leads with generosity, trust, and consistency. He shows up — reliably and wholeheartedly — for staff, fellow board members, and the organization as a whole. He listens, asks thoughtful questions, and champions the work of SCCT in rooms where it matters most, helping others see the transformative value of arts education and live theatre for young people. 

Irwin's support goes beyond strategy and oversight. He is a visible, vocal advocate for SCCT’s mission, using his story to connect hearts to purpose and inspire deeper community investment. In moments of challenge and growth, his steady leadership and genuine care have helped anchor the organization and remind everyone involved why the work is worth doing. 

Matt Irwin embodies what it means to serve with heart. His passion, vulnerability, and unwavering belief in the arts make him an extraordinary board chair and a deeply deserving recipient of Board Member of the Year.

Small: Serve & Connect, Rick Jiran

Rick Jiran is nominated for Board Member of the Year in recognition of his exceptional leadership as board chair during a particularly challenging period for his organization, Serve & Connect. This past year was marked by significant funding cuts at the national level, creating uncertainty and requiring thoughtful, steady governance. Jiran rose to this moment with clarity, resolve, and an unwavering commitment to Serve & Connect's mission.

As chair, Jiran provided strong and consistent leadership, guiding the board and organization through complex decisions while fostering meaningful board engagement. He played a critical role in supporting organizational restructuring, helping ensure his company could continue to meet their goals despite operating with reduced resources. Throughout this process, Jiran balanced encouragement with clear guidance, offering insight that strengthened internal accountability and reinforced external relationships.

Jiran’s leadership style – grounded, collaborative, and forward-looking – helped stabilize the organization during a difficult year and positioned it for continued impact. His dedication, strategic thinking, and ability to inspire confidence make him deeply deserving of recognition as Board Member of the Year.

Small: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate, Ray Brown

Ray Brown’s service to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate exemplifies the impact of long-term commitment, servant leadership, and deep belief in mission. His journey began in 2009 when he stepped forward as a Big Brother, committing not just to the mentor role but to the life of his Little Brother, whom he supported consistently through age 18, when his Little Brother left for college.

Seventeen years later, Brown continues to serve with the same dedication, now as board chair, following six years of board service that included executive leadership roles such as treasurer. His personal experience as a mentor gives him a deep, authentic understanding of the organization’s impact, which he brings to every governance decision. As a CPA, Brown provides steady, strategic financial leadership through budgeting, financial oversight, fundraising strategy, and grant preparation to ensure the organization’s long-term financial stability and capacity to serve more youth.

Beyond the boardroom, Brown leads by example. He attends every fundraiser, hosts event tables, brings new supporters into the fold, encourages family members and colleagues to give, and contributes generously himself through financial support and auction item donations. He also leverages his professional influence to consistently secure corporate sponsorships from his firm. Brown frequently shares his story at events, inspiring others through his unique perspective as both a Big Brother and a board leader. His sustained service, heartfelt advocacy, and strategic leadership make him especially deserving of recognition as Board Member of the Year.

Employee of the Year

Large: Trident United Way, Cathy Easley

Cathy Easley is an exceptional choice for Employee of the Year, having demonstrated unwavering dedication, leadership, and excellence throughout her nearly 35 years of service to Trident United Way. As assistant vice president of Community Impact, Easley has been a cornerstone of the organization, helping shape and sustain its mission-driven work for decades.

Throughout her tenure, Easley has played a vital role in advancing programs that strengthen families and improve lives across the Tri-County region. Her deep institutional knowledge, commitment to best practices, and ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the community have ensured continuity, quality, and effectiveness in Trident United Way’s impact initiatives. She is widely respected for her expertise and trusted leadership, serving as both a guide and mentor to colleagues across the organization.

Beyond her professional contributions, Easley embodies the heart of Trident United Way. She leads with compassion, humility, and kindness, consistently putting people first. Her approachable nature, willingness to support others, and genuine care for both colleagues and community members make her not only an outstanding leader but also a beloved presence within the organization.

Easley’s longevity is a testament to her passion and belief in the mission, but it is her consistency, integrity, and grace that truly set her apart. Her lasting impact, steady leadership, and deep commitment to service make her a truly deserving recipient of Employee of the Year.

Medium: South Carolina Children's Theatre, Traysie Amick

Traysie Amick deserves recognition as Employee of the Year for her extraordinary dedication and the profound, lasting impact she has had on South Carolina Children’s Theatre and the thousands of children she has served over her 27-year tenure. From the moment she joined SCCT in 1999, Amick has poured her heart into every role she’s taken on — teacher, director, performer, mentor, and advocate — always approaching her work with the humility and joy captured in her own words: “What I get to do professionally is a privilege.” 

As Principal Teaching Artist, Amick has guided generations of students, creating safe, joyful, and empowering spaces where children can explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover their voices. From leading SCCT’s teen improv team, designing preschool “Tell Me a Story” programs, and directing the Bullying Prevention initiative, to teaching curriculum-based residencies and workshops in schools and community centers, Amick has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that every child feels seen, supported, and capable of greatness. 

Amick’s residencies with special needs children at The Washington Center, Camp Courage, The Meyer Center, and Hope Academy provide therapeutic, life-changing opportunities for children facing physical or mental challenges. Through her guidance, these students develop confidence, social skills, and physical capabilities in ways that traditional therapy alone cannot provide. 

Amick’s commitment to arts education and community enrichment has been recognized with awards like the Carl R. Blair Award from the Metropolitan Arts Council, yet she approaches every day with the same heart, energy, and generosity she has shown since day one. 

Traysie Amick is not just an employee — she is the heartbeat of SCCT. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering belief in the power of theatre to transform lives make her truly deserving of Employee of the Year.

Small: Lowcountry Food Bank, Chelsea Anderson

For more than seven years, Chelsea Anderson has demonstrated exceptional excellence through her leadership of the organization’s marketing, communications, and creative strategy across a 10-county service area. As the primary in-house designer and communications lead, she drives multi-channel campaigns that strengthen engagement with more than 240 community partners, donors, and volunteers. She creates compelling storytelling initiatives that elevate programs such as BackPack Buddies, the Zucker Family Production Kitchen, and Food for Health, helping build donor trust and community awareness. Anderson's work spans award-winning print and digital collateral, large-scale projects such as installations, vehicle wraps, and banners, and cohesive brand management across all platforms. She also spearheads social media strategy and website management, reaching an average of 50,000 people monthly through social channels and 40,000 monthly website page views. A trusted collaborator, she works closely with leadership, Feeding America, and corporate partners to ensure communications align with both national campaigns and local impact — making a meaningful contribution to the organization’s mission and long-term success.

Corporate Excellence in Leadership

Erin Thompson, Messer Construction, Vice President

Erin Thompson and Messer Construction exemplify what it means to lead with heart, vision, and a steadfast commitment to the nonprofit community. Under Thompson’s leadership in the Greenville region, Messer has gone far beyond traditional corporate giving — actively fostering a culture of service, volunteerism, and community engagement that touches countless lives. 

Through Messer’s granting programs and corporate sponsorships, the company has provided critical support to numerous nonprofits, including organizations that serve children, families, and underserved populations throughout the region. Thompson ensures that this support is not just financial but deeply personal — encouraging employees at every level to engage directly with causes they care about, share their professional expertise, and invest their time and energy in meaningful ways. 

The Messer team embodies this philosophy. Across Greenville, employees serve on nonprofit boards, volunteer for programs, and bring energy, expertise, and compassion to the organizations they support. Thompson’s leadership creates an environment where service is celebrated and empowered, setting a model for how corporate resources and human talent can work hand-in-hand to strengthen the community. 

Erin Thompson and Messer Construction demonstrate that corporate leadership is not only about business excellence, but about inspiring a culture of generosity, engagement, and impact. Their commitment to giving time, expertise, and resources creates a ripple effect that transforms lives and strengthens the nonprofit community in Greenville — reminding us all that when a company leads with heart, it lifts an entire community.

Corporate Partner of the Year

Alan Ethridge, Metropolitan Arts Council

The Metropolitan Arts Council has been a trusted champion of the arts in Greenville County since 1973, tirelessly working to support artistic expression, deepen community engagement, and enrich lives across the region. MAC’s mission — to stimulate and support artistic expression and its appreciation in ways that enrich citizens, artists, cultural organizations, and communities — comes alive through the meaningful programs, advocacy, and funding they provide each year.  

Under the visionary leadership of Executive Director Alan Ethridge, MAC has grown into a foundational force for the arts. Ethridge’s unwavering belief in the power of creativity to transform lives has shaped MAC into not just a funding source, but a partner and a beacon for the arts community. Through his guidance, MAC has expanded its grantmaking, supported arts education initiatives like SmartARTS, and strengthened the cultural fabric of Greenville in ways that uplift young learners, artists, and cultural organizations alike.  

MAC’s quarterly grants program, which awards funding to individual artists, arts organizations, and arts education efforts, is at the heart of its impact — ensuring vibrant artistic experiences are accessible throughout our community. Without MAC’s support, many creative projects simply would not exist.  

As a valued partner of South Carolina Children’s Theatre, MAC has helped broaden the reach and sustainability of programs that serve children and families throughout the Upstate. Through this partnership, SCCT has been able to expand educational theatre, accessibility initiatives, and community outreach that truly change lives.  

MAC’s work is not just about supporting the arts — it’s about building community, creating pathways for expression, and ensuring that the arts remain a source of joy, learning, and connection for all. Their leadership has enriched Greenville culturally, socially, and economically, making them truly deserving of the Community Impact Award.

Volunteer of the Year

YouthBASE, Inc., Bill Kreger

Bill Kreger retired in Greenville in 2020. In his mid seventies, he spent his time volunteering at YouthBASE and the Greenville Literacy Association. Kreger has volunteered twice a week at YouthBASE for three years, made close relationships with every student, and attends monthly Family Nights to get to know YouthBASE's students' families. He has become an integral part of their team and deserves to be recognized for his dedication to supporting the most vulnerable population in Greenville.