By Shelley Gay Yuhas
“Experience matters.” I agree. So I ask you, the voter, what’s your experience been these past eight years? I’ve spoken to many of you who are ready to see some things change around District 121.
Though I’m new to politics, I have experience in leadership, governance, and a desire to serve. A strong mind, a strong sense of justice, combined with compassion for all people, is why I’m motivated to run for this office. District 121, it would be an honor to represent you in Columbia.
Let’s talk about experience.
My husband, Steve, and I, both grew up in Beaufort. In fact, we both graduated from Beaufort High School, Class of ’79. I pursued a B.S. degree in Computer Science with a minor in Business, starting at USC Beaufort, and graduating at USC Columbia.
After graduation, we branched out to other areas of the Lowcountry for our jobs, and raised our four children with a focus on faith and family. We are so proud of them. They are our greatest accomplishments and supporters. I have experience advocating for children and families, training them to value life and serve others.
In addition to being a full-time mom, I worked hard to run our small business and after 25 years, retired as the CFO. I have experience leading not one, but two successful small businesses that had a national footprint. Promoting small businesses makes our economy stronger, provides employment opportunities, and keeps money within the Lowcountry.
I had the honor to serve on the board of the Lowcountry Food Bank (LCFB) for seven years, three of which I served as the board chair. One of my greatest accomplishments with LCFB was helping to pave the way for the new food distribution center in Yemassee/Early Branch.
My experience caring for my community, just like my parents modeled for me, spans four decades. Working with various non-profit organizations, I’ve seen the value of diversity as we seek creative solutions, providing a stronger voice to make sure needs are met for the organizations and those they benefit.
In 2010, when one of our children needed specialized education, I helped start a school in Mount Pleasant. I was honored to serve as the board chair for Crown Leadership Academy from 2010-2018. Crown just won the award for Best Private School in Charleston for the third year in a row. I have experience in finding creative solutions to help children.
Building a school and advocating for my own children’s education makes me a staunch supporter of education for all. All of our students in District 121 deserve access to quality education. I believe wholeheartedly that each life has purpose and is precious and worth investing in.
For me, serving others starts by spending time in the community and listening.
Military spouse living in Burton, giving yourself to your family as your partner serves our country — I see you. Retiree on Fripp Island working to conserve the beauty of the Lowcountry around you — I see you. Parent on St. Helena praying for your child’s future — I see you.
Showing up at community action meetings, showing up at farm supply swap meets, flag football games, military services; if I’m invited, I will do my best to show up.
Having experience is only the beginning. Action is what we’re missing in District 121. We learn by listening and showing up for the community, whether on St. Helena or Grays Hill, Sheldon or Fripp. To hear your stories, your situation, and your dreams for the future. And I want to work with you, work for you, to protect, preserve and promote S.C. House District 121.
Shelley Gay Yuhas is running for S.C. House District 121. She is a Republican born and raised in Beaufort.
