The Newberry County Young Professionals, in partnership with the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and local leaders, are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Newberry County Four Under Forty Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates the outstanding contributions of young professionals who, through their leadership and dedication, are making Newberry County a better place to live, work, and thrive.

After a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Four Under Forty Award returns with a new schedule, now presented every four years. Submissions were open to the Newberry County community in the fall of 2024 and dozens were received. The 4 Under 40 selection committee included members of the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce, local media, previous award recipients, and local business leaders. This year’s honorees were selected from a pool of exceptional individuals aged 21 to 40 between 2021 and 2024, recognized for their remarkable community and professional achievements.

Here are your Newberry County 4 Under 40!

Brandon and Sarah Bowers: Farmers, Entrepreneurs, and Co-Recipients of the Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award

Ages: 34 and 35
Resident: Town of Pomaria

Brandon and Sarah Bowers are exemplary leaders in Newberry County’s agricultural and business communities. As the operators of Bowers Farm and multiple family-run businesses, they embody innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. Their dedication to sustainable farming practices and entrepreneurship has not only benefited Newberry County but also put it on the map as a premier agritourism destination.

Through their work on Bowers Farm, Brandon and Sarah have created a hub for education, tourism, and community enrichment. They actively participate in programs like the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour and host tours for families, organizational groups, and local schools. Their efforts have fostered a deeper understanding within the community about the critical relationship between food, farmers, and the environment. Their mission to educate and connect people to sustainable farming has had a profound and lasting impact on Newberry County.

A cornerstone of their outreach is Bowers Farm Summer Camp, which began in June 2021 with just 12 children and has grown to serve over 200 participants in its fifth summer this year. Designed to be accessible to all children, Farm Camp provides engaging and educational opportunities that inspire a love for farming, sustainability, and the natural world.

Beyond their farm, the Bowers have expanded into multiple ventures that directly benefit the community. Bowers Farm not only feeds people but serves as an educational platform and an official SC agritourism destination, drawing visitors from across the state to experience Newberry’s farming culture. Additionally, Brandon and Sarah host rental spaces and accommodations on their property, offering guests a welcoming place to stay while promoting Newberry County as a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

Their commitment to community service extends beyond agriculture. Recently, through their business, Bowers Land Improvements, they played an integral role in hurricane cleanup efforts, assisting many residents in recovering from the storm’s impacts.

Brandon and Sarah’s devotion to their faith is equally inspiring. Sarah serves as a Deacon of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, where she uses her farming skills to provide education, resources, and ministry. The couple actively participates in their own church and supports local churches in need through supply ministry. Their faith-driven initiatives have garnered attention in Christian publications, further spotlighting Newberry County for its contributions to ministry, farming, and community development.

Brandon and Sarah Bowers exemplify the values of leadership, innovation, and service. As farmers, entrepreneurs, and faith leaders, they have made a significant impact on Newberry County by fostering connections between people, land, and community. Their dedication to sustainable farming, education, and ministry continues to enrich the lives of those around them while showcasing the best of what Newberry has to offer.

Robbie Kopp: Financial Advisor, Thrivent; Downtown Business Owner; and Recipient of the Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award

Age: 37
Resident: City of Newberry

Since moving to Newberry in 2011, Robbie Kopp has been a dedicated advocate for the community’s growth and well-being. As a financial advisor with Thrivent and a downtown business owner, Robbie has made improving Newberry a central part of his purpose.

Robbie was a founding leader of the Newberry County Young Professionals, helping to establish the organization’s first board nearly a decade ago and serving in leadership roles for many years. He has also been an integral part of the Newberry County YMCA board, where he supported leadership transitions and helped guide the organization to better serve the community. Additionally, Robbie has dedicated time to numerous local organizations, including CREATE Newberry, Newberry Helping Newberry, GAAP, Living Water Foundation, Living Hope Foundation, and several additional churches and nonprofits, offering his expertise to help them thrive.

A graduate of the Newberry County Leadership program, Robbie brings a strategic perspective to his volunteer efforts, consistently striving to enhance the community’s quality of life. He has connected local nonprofits to Together SC, the state’s leading nonprofit association, and led initiatives that foster collaboration and positive change.

Robbie’s passion for Newberry is evident in his involvement and leadership at local events and his work behind the scenes to strengthen organizations that make a difference. Guided by the belief that every effort should contribute to a better future for his family and the community, Robbie’s dedication has left a lasting impact on Newberry. His recognition as a Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award recipient celebrates his tireless commitment to making Newberry a better place to live, work, and grow.

Gene Shealy: City of Newberry Fire Chief and Recipient of the Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award

Age: 41 (Under 40 qualified based on age between 2021 and 2024)
Resident: City of Newberry

A proud native of Newberry County, Gene Shealy has dedicated his life to strengthening his community through leadership, mentorship, and service. As the City of Newberry Fire Chief, Gene exemplifies a steadfast commitment to public safety and community development. His contributions are now recognized as a recipient of the prestigious Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award.

Gene’s leadership extends far beyond his professional role. As a volunteer coach and mentor, he has inspired countless young people, fostering enduring relationships and positively influencing their futures. His dedication to empowering the next generation reflects his deep belief in the importance of community engagement.

Throughout his career in the fire service, Gene has played a pivotal role in advancing public safety initiatives. He was instrumental in developing a robust fire program at the Newberry County Career Center, where he has trained and mentored volunteer firefighters. His efforts have also included organizing community events, promoting fire safety, and collaborating with local organizations to implement a comprehensive emergency response plan for Newberry County.

As Fire Chief, Gene has raised the training standards for the City of Newberry Fire Department, enabling its members to operate at advanced levels. He has spearheaded successful grant-writing initiatives to secure essential resources and supplies for the department. During times of crisis, his exceptional leadership has fostered communication and trust within the community, ensuring effective responses and providing reassurance to residents.

Gene began his fire service career in 2005 as a recruit firefighter with the City of Newberry Fire Department. Through hard work and dedication, he earned a series of promotions: senior engineer in 2008, lieutenant in 2012, captain in 2014, and, ultimately, Fire Chief. In each role, Gene has demonstrated a commitment to mentoring and training the next generation of firefighters.

In addition to his work within the City of Newberry, Gene has served as an instructor at the Newberry County Career Center, contributing to the Firefighter I and II programs and managing the Newberry Junior Firefighters program, which has inspired youth from across the state to pursue careers in the fire service. Since 2014, he has also been an instructor with the South Carolina Fire Academy, providing essential training to firefighters throughout South Carolina.

Gene’s influence extends statewide through his involvement with the South Carolina Firefighters Association, where he has contributed to several committees, including Advisory, Bylaws, Finance, and Recruitment and Retention. His dedication has earned him numerous accolades and recognition, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the fire service and the community he serves.

In collaboration with his team and local agencies, Gene has established multi-tiered support systems designed to enhance public safety and well-being. His leadership, combined with a focus on continuous improvement and teamwork, has enriched Newberry County and strengthened its community.

Gene Shealy exemplifies the values of fairness, trustworthiness, responsibility, and citizenship. These principles guide his leadership and inspire his team, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. By upholding these values daily, Gene actively contributes to a safe and thriving community for all who live, work, and play in Newberry County.

Andrew Wigger: Newberry County Clerk to Council, Public Information Officer, and Recipient of the Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award

Age: 34
Resident: City of Newberry

Andrew Wigger is a dedicated leader, communicator, and advocate for the Newberry community. As the Newberry County Clerk to Council and Public Information Officer, Andrew brings professionalism, attention to detail, and a passion for public service to his work. His contributions to Newberry County extend far beyond his professional responsibilities, as he remains one of the community’s most visible and engaged members.

Andrew has held numerous leadership positions in both his professional career and volunteer service. A past president of the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and an active member of the Rotary Club of Newberry, Andrew has made it his mission to see Newberry thrive. He has also been named the Newberry County Young Professionals Member of the Year and has served as a volunteer, organizer, and leader for countless local events and initiatives.

Andrew is a familiar face at community events, not just as an attendee but as someone who works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure their success. His genuine care for the people and organizations of Newberry County is evident in everything he does, from volunteering at festivals to supporting charitable initiatives.

During his tenure as editor and publisher of The Newberry Observer, Andrew elevated the publication’s reputation and impact, ensuring it served as a reliable source of local news and a voice for the community. He cultivated relationships with people from all walks of life, reporting faithfully while investing his time and energy in their success. His leadership at the newspaper left a lasting legacy of trust and community engagement.

In his current role with Newberry County, Andrew continues to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to local government. He has played a key role in long-term strategic planning, promoting Newberry County across multiple channels, and ensuring effective communication between the government and the community.

Andrew’s recent accomplishments include representing Newberry County at the South Carolina State Fair, actively contributing to hurricane response efforts, and continuing his involvement with civic organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce, the Newberry County Touchdown Club, and the Young Professionals. His ability to promote the county, solve problems, and find solutions has earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues and residents alike.

Andrew is known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine willingness to go above and beyond for the community he loves. His dedication is matched only by his approachable nature and collaborative spirit, making him an invaluable resource to local organizations and initiatives.

Andrew’s commitment to Newberry County is driven by his belief in its potential and his desire to see its people succeed. Whether working in his official capacity or as a community volunteer, he continuously strives to make Newberry a better place to live, work, and play.

Newberry County is fortunate to have someone as dedicated and visionary as Andrew Wigger. His contributions have left a lasting impact, and his recognition as a recipient of the Newberry County 4 Under 40 Award is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the community he calls home.

 

Newberry County Four Under Forty Award recipients have received a full year membership to the Newberry County Young Professionals as well as 2 tickets to the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Dinner on January 30. During the event award winners will be recognized with a small token of thanks for their commitment to the Newberry community. The community is invited to attend the event. Details and tickets can be received from the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce, 803-276-4274.
NEWBERRY COUNTY YOUNG PROFESSIONALS:
The Newberry County Young Professionals is a membership based organization of young professionals, ages 21-40, that live and/or work in Newberry, SC to promote and enhance leadership, civic responsibility, and professional development. It is a program of the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce.