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Leadership Grand Strand (LGS) is proud to announce James McIlrath, CPA, principal at Duncan, Farmer, McIlrath, Marlowe & Cole, PA, in Myrtle Beach, as the recipient of the 2026 Ann DeBock Leadership Award. Each year, the award recognizes a Leadership Grand Strand graduate who demonstrates exceptional leadership, service and commitment to the community.
“While this year’s nominees represented some of the very best in our community, James truly stood out for his decades of service and the lasting impact he has made across the Grand Strand,” said LGS Executive Director Shannon Furtick.
A member of LGS Class 11, McIlrath has spent nearly four decades championing service, integrity and community involvement. His leadership has helped strengthen numerous organizations, including the Myrtle Beach Civitan Club, Special Olympics and the Waccamaw Youth Foundation. Through initiatives such as the annual Polar Plunge, he has played a key role in supporting individuals with disabilities and uplifting vulnerable youth.
McIlrath’s commitment to service has earned him recognition, including “Civitan of the Year” and the “Silver Beaver Award,” reflecting both his leadership and his dedication to improving the lives of others.
Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated that community service is not just a responsibility, but a privilege. This approach has inspired others across the region to get involved and give back.
“I am deeply honored to receive an award that bears Ann DeBock’s name,” McIlrath said. “Leadership Grand Strand played a formative role in my life, and this recognition truly belongs to the many mentors, colleagues and community partners who have worked alongside me to serve the Grand Strand.”
McIlrath was nominated for the award by eight current students of LGS Class 46: Wes Bilyeu, April Clark, Jessica Curtis, Lauren Mazurkiewicz, Will Monckton, Izabela Niewinna, Mike Quinn and Audie Wise.
The Ann DeBock Leadership Award was established more than 25 years ago in honor of Ann DeBock, Leadership Grand Strand’s first executive director, who served from 1979 to 1998. The award continues to recognize alumni who carry forward her legacy of leadership and community impact.
The other finalists for the 2026 award included Juliet Casper, Cecilia Evans and Pam Wright, all of whom were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Grand Strand community.