SCbio To Host a Gathering of National Life Sciences Leaders at  Annual Conference in Charleston Feb. 18-20

-Largest life sciences gathering in South Carolina convenes over 500 industry pioneers, innovators and thought leaders from across the United States.

-Conference to showcase cutting-edge research, breakthrough treatments and next-generation technologies emerging from the Palmetto State’s thriving life sciences sector.

-SCbio will unveil its new initiative aimed at defining the core pillars of the state’s life sciences and medtech sectors to attract companies to the state.

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA – SCbio will bring national life sciences leaders to South Carolina for its annual conference at The Gaillard Center in Charleston, S.C., February 18-20, 2025.

The SCbio Annual Conference stands as the premier life sciences event in the Southeast, where global leaders and industry experts exchange insights, form powerful connections and discover exciting new achievements from the fastest-growing economic sector in South Carolina. Additionally, SCbio will unveil its new initiative aimed at defining the core pillars of the state’s life sciences and medtech sectors to attract companies to the state—highlighting the organization’s commitment to fostering innovation and growth in these critical sectors.

“We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s SCbio conference will be unlike any other, fueled by the growing momentum of life sciences in South Carolina,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “I’m particularly excited to share our new campaign that will put our state on the map—showcasing our position as the largest growing state in the life sciences sector. South Carolina has an incredible story to tell, and we’re eager to shine a spotlight on our achievements for the entire country [and world] to see.”

Since 2011, the conference has grown to over 500 attendees from 24 U.S. states and has become a catalyst for collaboration—shaping the future of life sciences both regionally and nationally. Speakers range from international powerhouse brands such as Novo Nordisk to federal leaders from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

This year’s two-day conference will feature how research and technologies from South Carolina companies and academic institutions are advancing life sciences, as well as spotlighting the growth of the innovation districts, introducing new and emerging therapeutics and oncology startups, highlighting the latest advancements in women’s health and more.

Hosted by Morgan Nichols Scarnecchia as emcee, the elite lineup of speakers will feature keynote addresses from:

  • Andrew Crenshaw, Vice President of Operations, Site Lead, GRAIL, Inc.
  • John F. Crowley, President and CEO, Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO)
  • Vinny Durand, Director, Life Sciences, Savills Raleigh/Durham
  • Arda Ural, Ph.D., Life Sciences Sector Leader, EY Americas

As a continued celebration of excellence, SCbio will proudly present its Pinnacle Awards, honoring trailblazers whose contributions to the life sciences have sparked remarkable success, inspired leadership, and propelled the industry forward. These awards recognize not only innovation, but also the profound positive impact on employees, customers and communities across South Carolina.

Registration for the SCbio annual conference opens on November 18. To register and view sponsorship opportunities, visit https://cvent.me/mB12w1.

About SCbio
SCbio is the definitive, unifying leader in South Carolina’s life sciences sector, fostering authentic collaboration and innovation across academia, startups, government and established enterprises. As a member-driven economic development organization, SCbio represents more than 1,000 organizations employing more than 87,000 professionals. Our members are unified by a mission to positively impact humanity through science across the ecosystem of advanced and specialty manufacturing; digital health and the data frontier; and cutting-edge health specializations. For additional information about SCbio and the life sciences industry, or to become a member, visit www.SCbio.org.

###

Join now to enjoy expanded member benefits!

Enjoy exclusive member content, special events, savings, networking and more

Paige Durham

SCbio is pleased to welcome Paige Durham to the team as communications coordinator to creatively and effectively communicate the value of the life science association’s programs and initiatives.

Durham will be responsible for developing and distributing high-quality content across multiple communications channels to build, advance and grow South Carolina’s life sciences industry, a key business sector for economic prosperity for the Palmetto State.

“SCbio is excited to welcome Paige to our team as our new communications coordinator. Paige brings fresh ideas and a strong background in communications that will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our engagement with our audience,” said SCbio President and CEO James Chappell. “We are confident that her skills and experience will be crucial in advancing our communication strategies and supporting our mission.”

Before joining SCbio, Durham was the Membership and Communications Manager at the South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA), where she used her photography, design and writing skills to create content tailored to pharmacy professionals. Durham’s effective communication skills guaranteed the delivery of brand-specific material that captured the eye of her audience.

During her time at SCPhA, Durham created and edited the Palmetto Pharmacist Journal, using her creative vision to showcase members, educational institutions and industry news. Her communications efforts successfully gained new followers for the organization over the course of a year, increasing brand visibility and promoting the pharmacy profession.

Durham holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the College of Charleston.

Tamia Sumpter

Tamia is a driven senior undergraduate Bioengineering student currently enrolled at Clemson University. With a strong foundation in her field, she has honed her skills through hands-on experience in research and development at Eli Lilly & Company. During her time in the ADME department, Tamia contributed significantly by working on siRNAs and their applications in finding In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation (IVIVC). Looking ahead, Tamia has set her sights on a promising career in law. She aspires to specialize in Intellectual Property Law, with a particular focus on serving as in-house counsel for leading medical device or pharmaceutical companies. Her enthusiasm for this role is palpable as she prepares to embark on her legal journey! She is also a proud member of the Omicron Phi chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., PEER Mentor for Clemson PEER/WiSE, and currently serves as the President of Clemson Bioengineering Organization (CBO). With her unique blend of scientific knowledge and legal interests, Tamia is poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare and life sciences industries.