Limestone president honored for economic development effort

Governor Mark Sanford, left, presents Dr. Walt Griffin with an Ambassador for Economic Development award. Dr. Walt Griffin was honored as an Ambassador for Economic Development by Gov. Mark Sanford and the Department of Commerce as part of South Carolina's 18th Annual Industry Appreciation Week. The ceremony took place in Columbia on Monday at the Governor's Mansion Complex and highlighted 49 individuals from 46 counties for their exceptional efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina.

"From day one, we have been committed to bettering the business environment to encourage economic growth among existing business and attract new investments to South Carolina. Fundamental reforms like workers' comp reform, tort reform and income tax relief have increased our state's competitive edge and provided fertile ground for businesses to grow, invest and create jobs here. Our state's successes could not be achieved without the help and efforts of community and business leaders in every corner of the state and today we say thank to these ambassadors for economic development for their efforts to create jobs and economic opportunity in South Carolina," Sanford said.

Griffin has served as president of Limestone College since 1992. Under his direction, Limestone has overcome many of the challenges that small liberal arts colleges have faced and has flourished over the last 16 years. Limestone's overall student body is now approximately 3,500, making it one of the largest private institutions in South Carolina. Its endowment, which had been nearly depleted at one time, is now at approximately $11 million. During the 2005-06 and 2006-07 fiscal years, Griffin chaired the South Carolina Tuition Grants Commission. Griffin previously served at the Cincinnati Center for the College of Undergraduate Studies of the Union Institute, Upper Iowa University, Mount St. Mary's College and Xavier University. Griffin received a bachelor's degree in history from Loyola College and his master's and Ph.D. degrees in history from the University of Cincinnati.

"Businesses small and large have contributed greatly to South Carolina's economy with investments, job creation and community involvement. This is a week to recognize the contributions of businesses, industries and community leaders for their continued commitment to growing economic opportunity in South Carolina. These ambassadors have given their energy above and beyond to enhance our communities and make South Carolina a better place to live and work," said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

Each year the Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank business and industry for its vital contributions to South Carolina's economy. The Department of Commerce kicks off Industry Appreciation Week each year by recognizing Ambassadors for Economic Development. These individuals include local leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.