SC Ports graduates 2025 Port Ambassador Class

May 09, 2025

SC Ports celebrates the 30 South Carolina professionals who completed the 2024-2025 Port Ambassador program.

Throughout the past year, the group toured the Port’s ocean and inland terminals, attended the State of the Port address, and met with port-dependent businesses around the state, giving them a first-hand look at how port operations drive an $87 billion statewide economic impact each year.

“There is no better way for our state’s professionals to understand how the Port spurs economic prosperity in every corner of our state, than by having the opportunity to see our operations up close,” SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin said. “We appreciate our supply chain and economic development partners who recognize the value of the Port Ambassador Program and take the time to show participants how the Port connects South Carolina businesses to markets around the world.”

This year’s participants were the first to tour construction progress at the Navy Base Intermodal Facility, which will soon provide near-dock rail to the Port of Charleston, and the recently reopened Hugh K. Leatherman Terminal.

“The Port Ambassador Program provided a well-defined opportunity to better understand the statewide operations and impacts of SC Ports,” said Ryan Johnson, Director of Administration with the City of North Charleston. “The Port’s reach extends far beyond the docks, shaping our communities, influencing our infrastructure, and playing a fundamental role in enriching the state’s economy and workforce. Building strong and lasting connections between the Port and stakeholders is vital as South Carolina continues to progress.”

The Port Ambassador Program is designed to increase public understanding of SC Ports’ role in our state’s economy. The program has graduated more than 200 participants since its launch in 2016.

2024-2025 Ambassadors: