From the Exec. Director's Desk

• Citation: Vol. 38 No. 2
• Year: 2026

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S DESK

Vol. 38 Issue 2 Pg. 5

South Carolina Lawyer

Summer, 2026

Seeing is Believing

BY EMMA DEAN

'Are we there yet?"

I used to ask that a lot. but now I find myself saying, "I can't believe we are already here:' I definitely still pause before writing the year every time I date a document because it still feels like 2025. Time moves faster and faster for all of us. That is true also for progress at the new Bar location. A new location has been a need for years; then, an idea; and now it is truly exciting to see it as a reality for each of you.

The energy at the ribbon cutting ceremony in May was amazing. Past Bar leaders, state and federal judges, House of Delegates members, and many attorneys came to check out their new space. Thank you so much for coming. If you have not made it to the new building yet. please come. Seeing it in person will do more than any words I can put on paper.

Listening to the buzz of attorneys visiting the new building was invigorating. Attorneys coming from Rock Hill and Charleston could not believe how easy it was to get to the building. They did not even ask "are we there yet" because they arrived before they expected. Coming from downtown Columbia, I surprise myself every time because I think the drive will take longer. Again - make the trip, come visit and experience it for yourself.

At the ribbon cutting, guests saw how the building is designed with attorneys' needs at the forefront. First off, you will cruise into one of more than 300 great parking spots. This was a need we recognized a long time ago, as we learned of members not coming to CLEs or hosting meetings at our old buildings because of parking difficulties. If you need a new Bar Card with your picture, Membership Services is able to help you right near the reception desk. If you are in a CLE and need to print a document, the Business Center is waiting for you. There is a nice, large patio if you would like to take a minute outside. There is also a Mediation Center, designed with the needs of you and your clients in mind, if you would like to hold a mediation at the Bar building.

Listening to and watching members experience the new building is the best part. We can list all the great attributes, but seeing is believing. When you are able, please join us and experience it for yourself.