West Columbia’s own Dr. Cindye Richburg Cotton has been recognized as one of the distinguished honorees of the 2026 SC Women in Business Awards, a prestigious statewide celebration recognizing exceptional women leaders who are making a lasting impact across South Carolina.

Hosted by Integrated Media Publishing, the annual awards luncheon will take place on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency in Greenville, SC. The event honors influential women from a wide range of industries who demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, and community service.

Dr. Cotton’s recognition reflects a lifetime of leadership, service, and transformational impact throughout South Carolina communities. As Executive Director of the Brookland- Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia, she has dedicated her career to improving lives through education, workforce development, mental health advocacy, and community health initiatives.

With more than 30 years of senior management experience, Dr. Cotton has become a respected leader known for her ability to build meaningful partnerships and create opportunities that empower individuals and families. Under her leadership, the Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center has expanded programs that support youth development and economic empowerment while strengthening community engagement throughout the Midlands.

Her outstanding work has helped secure more than $12 million in grant funding and foster collaborative partnerships with major organizations including AT&T, Dominion Energy, TD Bank, and Boeing. These accomplishments highlight not only her strategic leadership but also her unwavering commitment to creating sustainable change.

In addition to her executive leadership, Dr. Cotton also serves as an adjunct professor at the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, where she continues to inspire and mentor future business leaders.

The SC Women in Business Awards celebrate women who exemplify excellence while strengthening South Carolina’s business community and economy. Dr. Cotton’s selection as a 2026 honoree is a testament to her visionary leadership, tireless service, and dedication to uplifting others.

Family, friends, colleagues, and community leaders across the state join in congratulating Dr. Cindye Richburg Cotton on this well-deserved honor and thank her for the tremendous impact she continues to make throughout South Carolina.