Lackey named 2019 Humanitarian of the Year

Listen to this article

Pamela Lackey, former president of AT&T South Carolina, has been named the United Way of the Midlands’ 2019 Humanitarian of the Year.

In 20-plus years in the communications industry, Lackey helped establish the state’s first broadband network providing high-speed internet service to schools and libraries and worked with members of the S.C. Legislature on public policy matters.

Lackey began her career as a school library media specialist and also served as senior executive assistant to the S.C. Superintendent of Education. In that role, she directed a division responsible for technology, curriculum standards, testing and professional development for teachers and administrators.

“Pamela has been instrumental in establishing public policy and legislation aligned with United Way’s goals to improve the life of every person in the Midlands by fighting to make sure every child succeeds in school, that uninsured adults and children have access to healthcare, that people experiencing financial crises receive help, and that all individuals and families have the ability to reach their full potential in a thriving community,” Sara Fawcett, United Way of the Midlands president and CEO, said in a news release. “Pamela has received countless honors and awards, and we’re looking forward to honoring all of her accomplishments and service that continue to improve the Midlands.”

Lackey has served as co-chair of Transform SC and chair of the S.C. Chamber of Commerce. She was also appointed to chair the S.C. Ports Authority board and has served on the United Way of Midlands’ board of directors. From 2009-2011, she co-chaired that organization’s campaign committee, helping to raise more than $20 million while contributing more than 140 hours of volunteer work.

Lackey will be honored at the United Way’s annual Humanitarian of the Year dinner and award ceremony on Feb. 20 at the University of South Carolina Alumni Center.