Columbia Connectors

Coffee with Hal Stevenson & Margaret Clarkson
2025-06-04 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Hollings Library Program Room, 1322 Greene St, Columbia, SC 29208
Welcome to our quarterly off-site Coffee with Connectors! This month we will be hearing from University Associates Hal Stevenson and Margaret Clarkson. A light breakfast will be catered from Aramark for our attendees, please arrive by 8:15 so we can get started promptly at 8:30.
Hal Stevenson has been in the outdoor advertising business since 1983. In 1984, he and his wife Diana launched their own business, traveling across the country leasing billboard sites on commission. Together, they manage over 300 static billboard faces—primarily interstate directional—and 30 digital faces across Columbia, Charleston, Charlotte, Greenville, and Atlanta.

Margaret Clarkson brings a wealth of experience in public relations and community engagement to her role in Business Development at LS3P’s Columbia office. Her diverse background includes leading a creative agency in London, developing a biodiversity trail in Singapore, and directing marketing and business development efforts for organizations around the world. Margaret is deeply involved in the community, currently serving as Chair of the Governor’s Mansion Commission and holding leadership roles in CREW, the Columbia Sailing Club, and several regional committees and boards.

Connectors Social: Baseball at Segra Park
2025-06-25 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Segra Park, 640 Freed Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Mark your calendars for June 25th and join us at Segra Park for an evening of fun with the Columbia Fireflies! First pitch is at 7:05 PM, but the good vibes start well before that. Grab your favorite ballpark snacks, cheer on the home team, and soak up the summer vibes.
Bring your family, friends, and all your Fireflies spirit—it’s going to be a blast! We can’t wait to see you there!

Coffee with Connectors: Jeff Lawler & Lauren Johnson
2025-07-09 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Join us July 9th for a special Columbia Connectors Coffee Meeting where we’re opening up the floor for an open discussion about the group. Whether you’re a founding member or a fresh face, this is a great opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and learn more about how to make the most of your membership. We’ll be walking through our social media pages, reviewing the current roster, and highlighting the tools and resources available to all Connectors. Our goal is to make sure everyone feels informed, supported, and connected.
Coffee will be provided from Starbucks for everyone, please try to arrive by 8:15 so we can get started promptly at 8:30. See you there!

Coffee with Connectors: Sheldon Paschal
2025-08-06 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Breathe a Little Life Into Your Work and Connections!

Thank you for joining your Columbia Connectors, August 6th, for a morning of real conversations, creative energy, and meaningful exchange. Join fellow connectors and community-builders for a morning designed to spark inspiration, generative conversations and perhaps a little fun.

Sheldon will lead the group in a series of activities, intentional prompts, and offer moments to reflect on what really drives our work and our ‘why’ by creating space to connect beyond the usual “What do you do?” Let this be a breath of fresh air that could fuel deeper engagement in your professional and personal connections.

Connectors Social: South Carolina State Museum
2025-08-20 17:30 - 19:30 UTC | SC State Museum, 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
The South Carolina State Museum invites the Connectors to the Boeing Observatory on the 4th floor of the Museum, where you will have the opportunity to view the solar system through the 1926 Alvan Clark telescope. Learn about how your State Museum is Reimagining the Experience by renovating its permanent galleries, building an education wing, expanding into a large event rentals space overlooking the Gervais St. Bridge, and creating an Innovation Wing celebrating South Carolina’s innovators.

Coffee with Connectors: Dr. Julian Kim
2025-09-10 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | SC
It’s field trip time! This month we have been given the opportunity to speak with Dr. Julian Kim, the President of the Prisma Health Cancer Institute.

Kim, a board-certified surgical oncologist, joined Prisma Health in 2018 as the senior medical director of Oncology Services in the Midlands. Most recently he also has served as chair of the department of surgery at Prisma Health Richland Hospital. He has spent his entire career working in National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers.

We are so excited for our final field trip of the year, and hope you can join us!

Connectors Social: Rob Shaw Gallery Tour
2025-09-24 17:30 - 19:30 UTC | Rob Shaw Gallery, 2123 Park St, Columbia, SC
We’re heading to Rob Shaw’s Gallery for an evening of connection and conversation—Columbia Connectors style! 🍻
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Rob Shaw Gallery & Framing — where bold oil paintings, custom framing, and palette‑knife painting collide in a social art experience. Snack, sip, connect, and maybe walk away with a piece of unique art from our very own, Rob Shaw!

Coffee with Connectors: Emily Gallo & Tripp Roche
2025-10-01 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Join us for our final presentation of 2025 with Emily Gallo and Tripp Roche!

✨ Emily Gallo, Chief of Staff at the South Carolina State Museum, will be sharing updates on the museum’s upcoming One Enchanted Evening Gala on October 17th. This signature event is one of the museum’s biggest celebrations of the year! You can purchase tickets at https://scmuseum.org/events/one-enchanted-evening-gala.
✨ Tripp Roche, founder of Carolina Pong, is a fifth-generation member of the Villa Tronco family and is currently leading his inspiring Lighting Up Columbia initiative. Tripp will share insights into his work and community impact.
This event is the perfect chance to hear from two dynamic leaders shaping culture, community, and connection in Columbia.

Connectors Social: Public Event at Sandhills School
2025-10-15 17:30 - 19:30 UTC | SC
We’re thrilled to announce a special public event hosted by Sandhills School! This evening will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with their Board of Trustees while experiencing the incredible facilities and mission that make Sandhills so unique.
Guests will enjoy beverages and a spread of snacks and charcuterie while mingling in the back of the Vickers building and gymnasium area, complete with a cozy outdoor fireplace. Our hosts will also provide tours of the school and share insight into what makes Sandhills such a special place in our community.
This event combines networking, learning, and community in a warm and inviting setting, you won’t want to miss it!

Connector Connections: TEDx Congaree Vista & Finlay Park Revitalization
2025-11-05 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Join us for a morning of ideas and inspiration featuring Shyam Ganesh Babu and Trae Judy, hosted in partnership with TEDx Congaree Vista and the City of Columbia.
Trae Judy is a Columbia-based event designer and promoter known for producing major festivals and live experiences across the Midlands.
Shyam Ganesh Babu, lead organizer of TEDx Congaree Vista, is dedicated to empowering communities through innovation, mentorship, and health education initiatives such as MedElem and PhysiLink.
🎤 About TEDx Congaree VistaTEDx Congaree Vista is part of the global TED network, spotlighting local changemakers and ideas worth spreading right here in Columbia. Each event fosters creativity, connection, and community growth. Learn more at tedxcongareevista.com.
🌳 About Finlay ParkCurrently undergoing a $24 million revitalization, Finlay Park is being reimagined as a vibrant public space featuring a restored fountain, new green areas, and improved accessibility—set to reopen to the public on November 15, 2025.
Come connect, sip, and be inspired by the voices shaping Columbia’s future.

Connectors Social: Escape with Escapology
2025-11-19 17:30 - 19:30 UTC | Escapology, 717 Lady St D, Columbia, SC 29201
We’re excited for our next Connectors Social, happening at Escapology—one of our favorite local escape rooms! This unique experience will be hosted by fellow Connector Kevin Williams.
Join us for an evening of puzzles, teamwork, and fun as we put our problem-solving skills to the test in a thrilling escape room challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned escape room pro or brand new to the experience, this social is the perfect chance to connect, collaborate, and share some laughs outside of our usual setting.
Spots are limited, so be sure to reserve yours early. You won’t want to miss this one!

Vista Lights with Grace Outdoor
2025-11-20 18:00 - 21:00 UTC | Grace Outdoor, 1201 Lincoln St Suite 300 Columbia, SC 29201
You are all cordially invited to join us at Grace Outdoor for our annual Vista Lights party! Our office is located in the heart of Vista, so please join us in celebrating the festivities that the Vista Guild so beautifully puts together. We will have drinks, snacks, and treats, as well as rooftop viewing of the fun activities below on Lincoln St.

The party begins at 6:00pm on Thursday, November 20.

Our office is located at:

1201 Lincoln St
Suite 300
Columbia, SC 29201

Bring your spouse, kids, or friends, and come join the fun! We appreciate those of you that have joined us in the past and we look forward to hosting you all again.

Coffee With Connectors: Throw Your Pitch
2025-12-03 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | United Way of the Midlands, 1818 Blanding St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Welcome to our final coffee of the year, which will feature Kevin Williams, Sheldon Paschal, and Jeff Lawler on learning how to “Throw Your Pitch” for personal and professional development.
We’re wrapping up the year with a team favorite, “Gave, Got, Appreciate.” Each of us will share one thing we gave to the group in 2025, one thing we got from the group, and one person we appreciate in the group. It’s a chance to reflect, celebrate our wins, and recognize the impact we’ve had on our fellow Connectors.
We will also be giving you updates on next year’s programming that you will not want to miss!

8th Annual Lawler Holiday Soiree
2025-12-11 17:30 - 20:00 UTC | The Red Lion, 929 Hampton St, Columbia, SC 29201
You are cordially invited to the 8th Annual Lawler Living Holiday Soiree! We will have libations and hors d’oeuvres whilst listening to Christmas themed tunes from Britt & Gould. There will also be a photo booth from our friends at Picture This 360 Photo Booths So come join us at The Red Lion Antique Mall warehouse which is full of perfect gifts to purchase just in time for the holidays. Christmas comes but once a year, so let’s celebrate with some holiday cheer! We hope to see you there and feel free to invite friends

Coffee With Connectors: John Kapp & Matt Catchpole
2026-01-07 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
We’re starting the year strong with our FIRST coffee event of 2026, and you’re not going to want to miss this one.Our speakers? Absolute industry powerhouses:
🎙 John Kapp — Di Vino Rosso🎙 Matt Catchpole — Ikie Lu Record Club
PLUS… it’s perfectly timed with Restaurant Week, so consider this your early jump into all things food, wine, and hospitality.
Come sip, learn, and connect with some of the best in the business. Let’s make our first event of the year one to remember! 🔥

Columbia Connectors 4th Annual Roast & Toast
2026-01-15 17:30 - 19:30 UTC | Finlay Park
Join The Columbia Connectors for a shucking good time at our annual Roast & Toast! Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering feast of fresh, succulent oysters and chicken bog at the newly renovated Finlay Park! Enjoy the evening with picturesque views, cultivating relationships, and some live tunes by our friends Abbey Elmore Band.
You will not want to miss this once-a-year opportunity to connect with Columbia’s most connected and talented professionals, while enjoying an evening of genuine fun at Finlay Park.
Current Connectors get in FREE! If you would like more information about membership or sponsorships, then please email Lauren at ColumbiaConnectors@gmail.com.

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Networking With Connectors: Walker McKay
2026-02-04 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Fuel your morning and your network at an upcoming Connectors Networking Coffee hosted by Walker McKay. This fast-paced, high-energy gathering is built for professionals who like to start the day with purpose, strong coffee, sharp conversations, and meaningful connections.
Expect a come-and-go style meetup where early risers can connect, exchange ideas, and kick off the workday with momentum. Set your alarm, this is one morning meeting you won’t want to sleep on. ☕🚀

Connectors Social: Mardi Gras at Ikie Lu
2026-02-17 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | SC
Join the Columbia Connectors for a festive Mardi Gras themed social at Ikie Lu Record Club bringing together professionals for networking, community, and a little New Orleans inspired fun. 🎷💜💛
This event will feature great company, lively conversation, and a relaxed atmosphere to connect with fellow members and guests.

Field Trip with The Therapy Place
2026-03-04 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | The Therapy Place, 3620 Covenant Rd, Columbia, SC 29204
Join us March 4th for a special morning coffee as we proudly spotlight The Therapy Place, our Charity of the Year. This inspiring organization is making a profound impact in the Midlands by helping children with special needs and their families thrive. Come enjoy great coffee, learn about their mission, and take a behind-the-scenes tour of their welcoming space.
Whether you’re passionate about children’s health, community support, or simply want to connect with others who care, this coffee is for you! We’ll hear from team members, learn about their services, and discover how our community can continue to support their incredible work. We can’t wait to see you there and raise a cup to making a difference together.

Connectors Social: St. Pat's at Publick House
2026-03-18 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | SC
**Green beer was yesterday. Hair of the Dog is today.**
Keep the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations going with our March Social, St. Pat’s Hair of the Dog, hosted at the always-lively Publick House on Devine. Whether you’re curing a mild hangover or just looking for a reason to get out and connect, this laid-back social is the perfect excuse to grab a drink and unwind with great people.
Join us for an evening of casual networking, meaningful conversations, and a relaxed atmosphere where connections come naturally. Expect cold drinks, familiar faces, and plenty of new ones as we toast to good luck, good company, and keeping the momentum going just one more night.
No pressure, no formal agenda, just a fun, social setting designed to bring people together. Come thirsty, bring a friend, and let the Hair of the Dog work its magic.

Coffee with Connectors: Jeff Lawler & Emily Laughridge
2026-04-08 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Spring is in FULL SWING!🌻
Join us on April 8th, 2026 to have coffee with our Connectors, Jeff Lawler and Emily Laughridge at Za’s on Devine.
Jeff Lawler is a trusted Midlands REALTOR® known for his market expertise, strong negotiation skills, and client-first approach. With a passion for helping buyers, sellers, and investors succeed, Jeff delivers strategic guidance, honest communication, and exceptional service at every step of the real estate journey.
Emily Laughridge is a local business leader with Homebrands, specializing in home improvement, remodeling, and property enhancement solution and is known for her attention to detail and commitment to quality.
We can’t wait to see you there!

2026 Walk a Mile with Pathways to Healing
2026-04-21 17:45 - 20:00 UTC | SC
Did you know that every 73 seconds, someone in the United States is sexually assaulted?
You have a way to support those survivors.
On Tuesday, April 21, at 6 p.m., join Pathways to Healing and other community members in the annual Walk A Mile In Our Shoes to support survivors of sexual violence. The walk is open to all community members in support of our mission and vision.
SHIRT PICKUP – 5:45 p.m.
OPENING CEREMONY – 6 p.m.
LET THE WALK BEGIN! – 6:30 p.m.
“Pathways to Healing has faced significant federal budget cuts like other victim service providers. This left us with fewer resources but a growing demand for our support,” says Rebecca Lorick, Pathways to Healing Executive Director. “Despite this, we continue our mission in the community. Events like Walk A Mile are critical to serving the Midlands.”
Even if you are not available for Walk A Mile 2026, we invite you to help with fundraising for a team or consider a donation.
Thank you for your support.
This event will be livestreamed on our Givebutter page: https://givebutter.com/YFUEcv
BUY TICKETS HERE: https://givebutter.com/YFUEcv

Connectors Social: Baseball at Segra Park
2026-04-22 19:00 - 21:00 UTC | Segra Park, 640 Freed Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Mark your calendars for April 22nd and join us at Segra Park for an evening of fun with the Columbia Fireflies! First pitch is at 7:05 PM, but the good vibes start well before that. Grab your favorite ballpark snacks, cheer on the home team, and soak up the summer vibes.
Bring all your Fireflies spirit, it’s going to be a blast! We can’t wait to see you there!
**Space is limited to the first 20 Connector RSVP’s

Connectors Coffee with Sheldon Paschal
2026-05-06 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Za’s on Devine, 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205
Join us on May 6th for a dynamic networking experience designed to go beyond small talk and foster meaningful connection at Za’s on Devine facilitated by our Vice Chair, Sheldon Paschal.
“Three-Dimensional Leadership: Head, Heart & Hands” will give you a chance to engage with fellow Connectors in a way that’s both thoughtful and energizing. Facilitated by Vice Chair Sheldon Paschal, this networking session will explore how we think, relate, and take action as leaders in our work and community. Through guided conversations and interactions, you’ll gain fresh perspectives, share your own experiences, and continue building authentic connections.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your decision-making, deepen your relationships, or turn ideas into action, this experience will leave you with practical insights and meaningful interactions.
Come ready to participate, connect, and walk away inspired to lead and engage with clarity, compassion, and purpose.

Connectors Networking Social: Lagers and Brats on the River at Bierkeller
2026-05-20 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Bierkeller, 600 Canalside St Suite 1009, Columbia, SC, 29229, United States
Who says you can’t celebrate Oktoberfest in May?

Join us for our monthly networking social event at Bierkeller Brewing Company, where great connections and great conversations come together. Reconnect with familiar faces, meet new local professionals, and expand your network while enjoying one of Columbia’s favorite waterfront spots. Bring a guest, build new relationships, and unwind with us for an evening of networking in a fun and relaxed setting.
600 Canalside St Suite 1009, Columbia, SC 29201

Field Trip to the Pastides Alumni Center
2026-06-03 08:15 - 09:30 UTC | Pastides Alumni Center, 900 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201
Summer is almost here!🌻
Join us on June 3, 2026 to have coffee at the Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina!
The Pastides Alumni Center is a premier event and gathering space located in downtown Columbia’s Vista district near the University of South Carolina campus. The facility serves as the home of the University of South Carolina Alumni Association and hosts a wide range of events, from professional meetings and conferences to weddings and community gatherings. Its modern design and central location make it one of the most sought-after venues in the Columbia area.
We can’t wait to see you there!

Connectors Networking Social: Ping Pong, Pizza, and Pints!
2026-06-17 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Tapps, 1644 Main Street, Columbia, SC, 29206, United States
Join Columbia Connectors for our June networking social at the historic Tapps Building for an evening centered on connection, conversation, and a bit of friendly competition.
Rally at the ping pong tables, grab a slice of pizza between conversations, or catch up with familiar faces in a relaxed, social setting. This is your opportunity to grow your network beyond the traditional handshake and business card and build more meaningful connections along the way.
We’re bringing networking and fun together for a laid-back evening designed to help you connect, with a bit of fun along the way!

Please contact us at columbiaconnectors@gmail.com if you have any questions. We’ll see you at Tapps!

Connectors Networking Coffee: Grainne Owen & Holly Condon
2026-07-08 08:15 - 09:30 (America/New_York) | United Way of the Midlands, 1818 Blanding St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Start your morning with purpose (and coffee!) at our monthly networking event on July 8.
This month, we are proud to feature two inspiring women who actively support and advocate for families across the Midlands: Grainne Owen of Curing Kids Cancer and Holly Condon of Senior Care Authority.
As President & Founder of Curing Kids Cancer, Grainne Owen leads efforts to fund innovative pediatric cancer treatments, expand access to critical research, and support children and families facing life-changing diagnoses. Through her work, Curing Kids Cancer brings hope, resources, and real progress to families navigating difficult journeys.
Holly Condon is an Eldercare Consultant who helps seniors and their families navigate the complex world of senior living, home care, memory care, and long-term care planning. With extensive experience guiding families through challenging transitions, she and her husband David serve as trusted advocates and educators that help clients make informed decisions aligning with their care needs, preferences, and financial circumstances.
Although they serve different generations, both Grainne and Holly dedicate their work to caring for families during some of life’s most important and challenging moments. Together, they strengthen our community through compassion, advocacy, and meaningful support.
Join us to connect with local professionals, grow your network, and hear how these leaders continue to make a lasting impact across the Midlands. We look forward to seeing you there!
Please contact us at columbiaconnectors@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Connectors Networking Social: Chill & Grill Pool Party
2026-07-18 13:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 2305 Lincoln Street, 29201, Columbia, SC, 2305 Lincoln Street, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Beat the Columbia heat and cool down with the Columbia Connectors at our Chill & Grill Pool Party Networking Social! ☀️🌊
Join us for an afternoon of poolside networking, great conversations, grilled food, cold drinks, and plenty of fun. As temperatures rise in Columbia, SC, there’s no better way to relax, make new connections, and enjoy time with fellow professionals in the community.
At Columbia Connectors, we create networking social events that feel natural, welcoming, and genuine. We believe strong communities start with strong relationships. Events like our annual Chill & Grill Pool Party help bring people together beyond business while celebrating the connections that make Columbia such a great place to live and work.
Please contact us at columbiaconnectors@gmail.com if you have any questions. Explore our website for upcoming events or check out our Instagram!

Connectors Networking Coffee: Jeff Lawler, Founder
2026-08-12 08:15 - 09:30 (America/New_York) | United Way of the Midlands, 1818 Blanding St, Columbia, SC, 29201, United States
Join us for our August networking coffee with Columbia Connectors founder Jeff Lawler! ☕🤝
This month’s coffee at United Way of the Midlands is centered around the theme “Connecting with Purpose” . We’re celebrating the vision that has guided Columbia Connectors from the beginning: “Where Columbia connects, opportunities begin.”
Jeff founded Columbia Connectors on the belief that meaningful collaboration and active community engagement drive Columbia’s growth and success. Columbia Connectors has become a place where professionals share ideas, create opportunities, and make a lasting impact on the community.
Whether you’re a longtime member or networking for the first time, you’ll find a welcoming environment focused on collaboration, growth, and local impact. We’re building a stronger Columbia, one coffee at a time.
If you’d like to get more involved with Columbia’s professional community, please contact us at columbiaconnectors@gmail.com or check out our upcoming events.
