Alum is SC's youngest mayor
Jeffrey Graham was recently elected mayor of Camden, becoming the youngest mayor in South Carolina. The 26-year-old Graham, who graduated from PC only three years ago, defeated an eight-year incumbent to win the position.
"I have a great deal of energy and new ideas that will be crucial in moving a historic small town like Camden forward despite a down economy," he said.
The Camden native works as a Realtor and is also the Kershaw County Democratic Party chairman, a Rotarian, and a member of the county Chamber of Commerce board of directors.
While his standing in the community played a role in his becoming mayor, Graham also ran an aggressive campaign, mailing out information, hosting cookouts, and visiting almost 2000 homes.
At PC, the Business Administration major took advantage of many opportunities to learn about campaign management. He organized, budgeted, fundraised, and directed a daylong Christian rock event with a budget of $76,000.
"I love PC," Graham said, "and my time there demonstrated that if we want something done, we can call on each other and work together, and it will be done."
He also served as the Director of Communication for the College's Chaplain and as the Organizer, Manager, and Scheduler of the Inklings Coffee Shop.
"My life at PC was about making PC and Clinton a stronger community," Graham said. "I was also able to build strong relationships with professors, administrators, staff, and my fellow students."
From his sophomore through senior years at PC, Graham coached the Clinton High School varsity soccer team. He also served as the Freshman Class Representative for the Student Government Association and later as a Student Senate Member.
He was involved in several service and religious efforts. Graham served as a Bluefish Campus Minister, Assistant Scout Master for Student Volunteer Services, officer and president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
"We have many great things in Camden and Kershaw County," Graham said, "and I look forward to taking part in directing its future."