The University of South Carolina Upstate is pleased to announce the addition of five distinguished individuals to its Foundation Board. Steve Aldrich, Jakie Allen Hodge ’80, Kelly Tam ’98, Ken Leopard, and Dr. Randall Gary were elected as new Board members earlier this month.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Steve Aldrich, Jakie Allen Hodge, Kelly Tam, Ken Leopard, and Dr. Randall Gary to the USC Upstate Foundation Board,” said RJ Gimbl, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement and Executive Director of USC Upstate Foundations. “Each of these individuals brings a remarkable wealth of knowledge, extensive experience, and a deep-rooted passion for our beloved university and the community it serves. Their dedication to excellence in their respective fields will undeniably strengthen our Foundation’s endeavors as we diligently work towards advancing the mission of USC Upstate.”
Steve Aldrich, a seasoned leader with extensive experience in manufacturing operations, joins the Board as Senior Director of Manufacturing Operations for CSL Plasma. Aldrich has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial leadership throughout his career. He has successfully led start-ups, introduced innovative technologies to the market, and transformed financially troubled manufacturing units into top-performing divisions. Aldrich earned a Master of Business Administration from the Eller School of Management at The University of Arizona and holds an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Brigham Young University. He also serves on several advisory boards, including the Union County Development Board and USC Union.
Jakie Allen Hodge, a proud graduate of USC Upstate, brings a wealth of experience in education and community involvement to the Board. With 30 years of classroom teaching experience, Hodge has been a dedicated advocate for students demonstrating potential but underachieving. She has also played an integral role in developing educational programs for gifted and talented students. Hodge’s commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as she has served in various administrative positions and actively participates in education-related service organizations. Additionally, she has made significant contributions to the Spartanburg community through her involvement with organizations such as the Spartanburg Soup Kitchen and Spartanburg Art Museum.
Kelly Tam, Vice President of Marketing for Neel-Schaffer, adds her expertise in marketing, public relations, and event planning to the Board. With over 20 years of experience in these fields, Tam has worked with engineering, healthcare, and hospitality industries, helping both start-ups and established brands thrive. As an alumna of USC Upstate, she and her husband actively participate in University events and maintain a strong connection with their alma mater. Tam’s passion for effective communication extends to digital platforms, as she recently completed a digital marketing certification program through the American Marketing Association.
Ken Leopard, a native of Spartanburg and a graduate of Wofford College, brings his financial expertise to the Board. A financial advisor with Pinnacle Financial Partners, Leopard has worked in the commercial banking sector for over 16 years. He is actively involved in the Spartanburg community, serving on the Board of Directors for The Country Club of Spartanburg and supporting charitable organizations such as The Hope Center for Children and The First Tee of Spartanburg.
Dr. Randall Gary, Superintendent of Spartanburg District 5 Schools, joins the Board with a deep commitment to education. With a background in civil engineering technology and experience as a classroom teacher, principal, and superintendent, Gary has dedicated his career to shaping the educational landscape. He has been instrumental in implementing innovative programs, expanding technology initiatives, and enhancing career and technology education offerings. Gary is an active member of education associations and has received recognition for his leadership and community involvement.
These five new members will play a vital role in advancing the mission of the University of South Carolina Upstate Foundation. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will contribute to the University’s continued growth and success. The USC Upstate community looks forward to their valuable contributions and thanks them for their commitment to the University and its students.