By Scott Grooms
Shelby Broomfield, a name synonymous with community development and leadership in the Salkehatchie region, took the helm as the Director of the Salkehatchie Leadership Institute in December 2023. Her journey, deeply rooted in rural South Carolina, is a testament to her passion for empowering others and fostering positive change.
Born and raised in Barnwell, South Carolina, she is the daughter of Willie and Shirley Williams and is the oldest of three siblings. While growing up, she developed a strong work ethic and a desire to make a difference. Her early experiences, from helping her aunt at the local housing authority to pursuing higher education, laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
“I remember as a child, my aunt worked with the housing authority in Barnwell. My sister and I would go in and help her file letters and other documents. After earning a sociology degree from the University of South Carolina Aiken, I needed my first job, and my aunt’s connections helped me secure a position at the Aiken Housing Authority. Since I was familiar with the Aiken community from my time in college, it felt like a perfect fit. I spent a couple of years there as an administrative assistant,” she said.
After earning her master’s degree in public administration from South University, Shelby’s career took her on various paths, each one contributing to her understanding of community development. From working with nonprofits to bridging the gap between workforce development and education, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to improving the lives of others.
As the Director of the Salkehatchie Leadership Institute, Shelby is poised to elevate the organization’s mission of cultivating leaders who will shape the future of the region. By providing opportunities for growth, networking, and community engagement, she aims to inspire a new generation of leaders to take action and drive positive change.
“The Institute has been in existence for over 20 years and focuses on community development within our five-county service area (Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, and Hampton counties). One of our key programs is Leadership Salkehatchie. This regional program aims to develop emerging community leaders and provides participants with educational experiences that emphasize social and community awareness. Over 200 alumni have completed this program,” Broomfield said.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Shelby is a devoted mother to her three-year-old daughter, Harper. She and her husband, Albert, enjoy spending quality time with their family, indulging in self-care, and supporting local businesses.
“My mom lives just eight minutes down the road. At this stage in my life, I try to engage in activities that help me relax. I enjoy getting out, pampering myself with hair and nail treatments, or visiting the spa whenever I can. Connecting with friends is also important to me. I also try to stay active in my church.”
If money and time were no object, Broomfield says she would own and rent out private planes and yachts while investing in commercial real estate in rural areas, and she would travel.
