(Photo courtesy of South Carolina Governor's School for Science & Mathematics)

The South Carolina Department of Commerce was awarded the prestigious Townes Award by the South Carolina Governor's School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) on March 19th.

S.C. Commerce was celebrated for leading transformative growth in South Carolina.

From large corporations to entrepreneurs and from life sciences to advanced manufacturing, S.C. Commerce helps advance the economy and create opportunities for all South Carolinians.

In front of a packed ballroom at 1208 Washington Place in Columbia, S.C. Commerce Secretary Harry M. Lightsey III and Deputy Secretary Ashely Teasdel accepted the award during the 31st annual Townes Award Celebration.

"The South Carolina Department of Commerce is honored to receive the prestigious Townes Award," Lightsey said. "S.C. Commerce works to create economic opportunities to increase choices for all South Carolinians, and this award highlights our ongoing efforts to embrace the future to ensure the state's sustainable advantage for years to come."

Lightsey added, “We greatly appreciate the support and recognition of the Governor's School for Science and Mathematics."

Through collaborations, partnerships, and a historic $10.27 billion in announced capital investment in 2022, followed by $9.22 billion announced in 2023, S.C. Commerce, under the leadership of Lightsey and Teasdel, has achieved historic growth and secured some of the largest economic development deals on record.

"GSSM proudly honors the Department Commerce for their unparalleled efforts in attracting businesses to South Carolina and supporting their growth," said Danny Dorsel, GSSM president. "Our research programs, which make GSSM a national leader in STEM education, depend on many companies to provide internships for our students and career opportunities for our alumni.”

Dorsel added, “ We are grateful to partner with the Department of Commerce in making South Carolina a great place to live, learn and work."

Since 1993, GSSM has presented the Townes Award to honor individuals, businesses, or institutions that have transformed South Carolina and the world.

Charles H. Townes, Ph.D., (1915–2015) was a native South Carolinian, Furman graduate, and Nobel Laureate in physics.

In 1964, Townes received the Nobel Prize for his pioneering research in quantum electronics, leading to the invention of the laser.

Applications to GSSM's residential program are being considered on a space-available basis. Interested students can apply at www.scgssm.org/admissions/apply-residential.

Applications to GSSM's GoSciTech summer STEM camps are also open, offering students three options: a residential camp in Hartsville, day camps at locations across the state, and virtual camps accessible from anywhere.

Interested students can apply at www.scgssm.org/summercamps.