Seven Midlands Women Named Women of Distinction by Girl Scouts of South Carolina-Mountains to Midlands

(Logo Courtesy of Girl Scouts of South Carolina - Mountains to Midlands)

Girl Scouts of South Carolina – Mountains to Midlands will honor seven Midlands area women for their courage, confidence, and character.

Since 1993, the Women of Distinction event has recognized extraordinary women across the Midlands who lead with the very values Girl Scouts strive to build in every Girl Scout.

Officials with the Girl Scouts noted that this uplifting evening is a celebration of those who light the way for others through their professional accomplishments, community impact, and unwavering commitment to service. Held annually in Columbia, this event brings together community leaders, businesses, and changemakers for an evening of connection, storytelling, and inspiration — all in support of local Girl Scouts.

Join the Girl Scouts in celebration on September 25, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Cathy Novinger Girl Scout Leadership Center, 1107 Williams Street, Columbia, 29201. All media are welcome to attend, and interviews can be scheduled ahead of the event as well.

This year’s honorees are:

Julie Ann Avin Chief Executive Officer & President of Mirci (Mental Illness Recovery Center, Inc.)

Frances Griggs EVP, Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank

Naida RutherfordCoroner, Richland CountyDue to a prior engagement, Naida will be unable to attend, and a designated representative will accept the award on her behalf.

Ashley OlayinkaFounder + CEO, The Hive Community Circle

Mary Winter TeasterSenior Brokerage Associate, Colliers International

Allison Spry WaymyersOwner of Spry Players Group, LLC

Laurin Chewning (Young Professional Honoree)Digital Marketing Manager, AllSouth Federal Credit Union

The Girl Scouts of South Carolina encourage everyone to celebrate these women of distinction. More information, including event tickets and sponsorship packages, can be found on their website at https://www.gssc-mm.org/en/support-us/donate-locally/wod/wod-midlands.html or by emailing aparker@gssc-mm.org.

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