2023 ForeverGreen Annual Awards Luncheon

We are grateful to the sponsors, vendors, staff, board members, speakers, and guests who helped make this one of our best awards luncheons yet.

In addition to the 2023 awards program, this event included a celebration of Upstate Forever's 25th anniversary. If you were unable to join us in person, we invite you to experience ForeverGreen 2023:

• View the photo album
• Watch the award recipient videos
• Flip through the digital event program

2023 award recipients

Glenn hilliard

For his tireless advocacy for trails, green spaces, and natural places, and his leadership in the Saluda Grade Trail initiative, Glenn Hilliard was recognized as Tommy Wyche Land Conservation Champion.

Ben Duncan

For his determined advocacy at the state level for enhanced water quality and smart approaches to resource protection, South Carolina Chief Resilience Officer Ben Duncan received the Clean Water Champion award.

Representative Chandra Dillard

For her consistent voice in support of important land and water protection issues, sustainable community development, and affordable housing in the Upstate and statewide, the Honorable Chandra E. Dillard was named Public Servant of the Year.

Dr. Joe Lesesne

For a lifetime of service to the natural world; dedication to Upstate Forever as an advocate, board member, and board chair; and common-sense conservation leadership throughout the state, Dr. Joe Lesesne received the Brad Wyche Extraordinary Achievement Award.

Click here to watch a video about each of these honorees

Thank you, partners!

Many thanks to the partners that helped ForeverGreen 2023 come to life including emcee Carol Clarke, Smoak Public Relations, Electric Soul Creative, Embassy Flowers, Kristy's Balloon Decorations, and our hosts, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to the sponsors who generously supported this celebration:

- EMERALD SPONSORS -

- SPRUCE SPONSORS -

- CEDAR SPONSORS -