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HGTC Foundation Announces New Officers for Board of Directors

(Conway, SC) 09/13/2024

 John SawyerMr. John Sawyer, Senior Vice President/Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, will serve the HGTC Foundation as Chairperson. 

The Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) Foundation is pleased to announce the new slate of officers for the Board of Directors to serve in the upcoming year. The newly appointed officers are committed to advancing the Foundation's mission and supporting HGTC in its pursuit of excellence in education, community engagement, and innovation.

The new officers for the upcoming year include:

  • Chairperson: Mr. John Sawyer, Senior Vice President/Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
  • Vice Chairperson for Fundraising Initiatives: Mr. David Singleton, Owner/President of Singleton Properties
  • Vice Chairperson for Support Services: Ms. Martha Lewis, Atlantic Physical Therapy
  • Treasurer: Mr. Edward Tinsley, Retired from McLeod Loris Seacoast
  • Secretary: Mr. Buzz Freeman, Senior Vice President for Conway National Bank
  • Past Chairperson: Mr. Tim Tilley, President of EnviroSep

“The Foundation welcomes the new officers and Mr. John Sawyer as the new Chairperson. With his deep roots in Horry County and extensive professional background, John brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to community service that will greatly benefit the Foundation,” said Shannon Detzler, HGTC Foundation President & CEO. 

As a fifth-generation Conway native, John Sawyer has long been a dedicated member of the local community. In his professional life, he serves as a Senior Financial Advisor with the Soto Sawyer Crosby Group at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, holding the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® designation. Before joining Merrill Lynch in 2014, John spent ten years in community banking, further solidifying his expertise in financial services.

John's educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the University of South Carolina and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Winthrop University. Beyond his professional and academic achievements, John is deeply involved in community organizations, including the HGTC Foundation, the Grand Strand Sertoma Club, the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, and the Leadership Grand Strand Board of Regents. A 2020 graduate of Leadership South Carolina, John is committed to leadership and community development.

Currently residing in Conway, SC, with his wife, two daughters, and son, John enjoys spending his free time hunting, traveling, riding horses, and being with his family.

“The HGTC Foundation looks forward to the leadership and guidance of the Board of Directors as we continue to support the College's mission and goals,” continued Detzler. 

The purpose of the HGTC Foundation is to raise funds to support the programs, services and activities of Horry-Georgetown Technical College, its students and employees, and to create and strengthen positive relations between the College and the community.  

To reach the HGTC Foundation, call 843-477-2105 or visit the website