South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association names developer of the year

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The South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association named its developer of the year and its rising star during its annual conference this week in Myrtle Beach.

John Truluck, economic development director at Dorchester County, has been honored as the Local Developer of the Year, and Holly McCrary, existing industry manager for the South Carolina Department of Commerce, has been recognized as the SCEDA Rising Star, according to a news release.

“I am thrilled to congratulate John on being named Local Developer of the Year and Holly for receiving the SCEDA Rising Star Award. John’s remarkable career has contributed significantly to the positive growth and development of Dorchester County and the entire state,” said SCEDA President Sandy Steele in the release. “Holly’s recognition as the SCEDA Rising Star reflects her enthusiasm and her drive serves as an outstanding example to emerging leaders in the industry. Congratulations to both recipients on these well-deserved awards.”

Truluck boasts a 23-year career in economic development and has been a member of SCEDA for all 23 of those years, the release stated. Some of his accomplishments as economic development director include leading the creation of the Dorchester Economic Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) committed to driving Dorchester County’s economic interests forward, and the successful introduction of more than 34 new and expanding businesses, resulting in the creation of 4,416 new jobs and more than $1.14 billion in capital investment.

“I am honored to receive the Local Developer of the Year award from SCEDA. Being nominated by my peers, who understand the challenges and triumphs of economic development firsthand, means a lot,” said Truluck in the release. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue creating a more prosperous future for all South Carolinians.”

Presented by the SCEDA Emerging Leaders Committee and the SCEDA Awards and Scholarship Committee, the Rising Star Award acknowledges McCrary’s contributions in her relatively short time in the field, the release stated. McCrary continuously demonstrates a commitment to learning while embodying a positive attitude. She has been in her role with the SC Department of Commerce since February 2023 and plays a pivotal role in nurturing South Carolina’s existing industry, which serves as an engine of economic growth for the state.

“I’m honored to receive the SCEDA Rising Star award and grateful to be recognized by my peers,” said McCrary in the release. “I am excited to continue my professional development through SCEDA and working with all of the amazing companies that call South Carolina home.”