Leadership South Carolina Class of 2026 From Tree to Table: A Living Tribute for America’s 250th Anniversary
Give. Grow. Inspire.
A Statewide Initiative by Leadership South Carolina, Class of 2026
The Leadership South Carolina Class of 2026 invites you to join us in a project centered on one powerful theme: Growth—the growth of our nation, the growth of our environment, and the growth of our people.
The Growth of Our Nation
Celebrating 250 Years of Independence
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, we honor the journey that shaped us. South Carolina has played a defining role in our nation’s story—from Revolutionary War battlegrounds to generations of civic leadership.
Our project, From Tree to Table, serves as a living tribute to this milestone, connecting our shared history to the promise of our future.
The Growth of the Environment
Restoring South Carolina’s Natural Legacy
South Carolina is losing native and historic trees at an alarming rate. To help restore our natural landscape, we are planting 250 native trees across all four state park regions in partnership with Palmetto Pride and SC State Parks.
These plantings will rebuild lost canopy, strengthen ecosystems, and create enduring spaces of beauty and resilience for generations to come.
The Growth of People
Ensuring No Student Faces Hunger While Building a Better Life
At the heart of this project is a simple belief:
No South Carolinian—especially those working to improve their lives through education—should face food insecurity.
Every technical college in our state operates a student food bank, and the need continues to grow. Through the sale of 250 symbolic trees at $250 each, we aim to raise $62,500 to support food assistance programs across the 16 Technical College Foundations.
Your support helps ensure that students can learn with dignity, stability, and hope.
Give. Grow. Inspire.
Together, we can move South Carolina—from tree to table, and from today into the next 250 years.