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Leadership Grand Strand (LGS) Class 46 is proud to announce the nominees for the 2026 Ann DeBock Leadership Award, an honor that recognizes outstanding LGS alumni who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership and commitment to the community. The award, named in memory of former LGS Executive Director Ann DeBock, will be presented on March 27, 2026.
The four nominees for the 2026 Ann DeBock Leadership Award are:
Juliet Casper, Partner at Roy & Casper, LLC: A distinguished leader in civic engagement, Juliet Casper (LGS Class 23) has dedicated more than two decades to advancing community welfare through education, advocacy and youth services. Her leadership includes guiding statewide initiatives with General Federation of Women’s Clubs, chairing national committees on legislation and public policy, and serving as Past President of the North Myrtle Beach Woman’s Club. She also works directly to protect vulnerable youth as a board member for Sea Haven Inc. and as an appointee to the Horry County Foster Care Review Board. Her service reflects an enduring commitment to creating safe, supportive environments for families and children.
Cecilia Evans, Local Markets Organization Market Executive, Bank of America – Myrtle Beach: Deeply connected to the Myrtle Beach community for three decades, Cecilia Evans (LGS Class 26) champions collaboration and mentorship through active involvement in local organizations. Her service includes roles on the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit Committee, Community Engagement Committee and Ignite Women’s Council, as well as serving on the board of the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation. She also contributes to the Junior League of the Grand Strand and Celebration Presbyterian Church’s Finance Committee and has earned recognition as a three-time recipient of the “President’s Volunteer Service Award.” Committed to strengthening her region, she combines professional leadership with a passion for philanthropy and civic engagement.
James McIlrath, Principal at Duncan, Farmer, McIlrath, Marlowe & Cole, PA: For nearly four decades, James McIlrath (LGS Class 11) has championed service and integrity across the Grand Strand, supporting causes that unite the community. McIlrath’s leadership with organizations like the Myrtle Beach Civitan Club, Special Olympics and Waccamaw Youth Foundation has created lasting impact, including events such as the annual Polar Plunge, which reflect a deep commitment to uplifting vulnerable youth and individuals with disabilities. Recognized with honors like “Civitan of the Year” and the “Silver Beaver Award,” he inspires others to view service as a privilege and a way to strengthen the region.
Pam Wright, Business Development Manager, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce: A longtime leader in the Grand Strand business community, Pam Wright (LGS Class 36) has dedicated more than 30 years to advancing the mission of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. A 2025 Ann Debock Award nominee, Wright has earned multiple national chamber sales awards, including recognition from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Known for her compassion and resilience, she actively supports charitable initiatives through organizations like United Way, the American Cancer Society, and the Alzheimer’s Association. She also contributes to local nonprofits through Circle 555 and helps welcome international J-1 exchange workers to the Myrtle Beach area.
In 2025, LGS Class 46 members were divided into four teams, each carefully selecting a nominee for the award. In February, the groups will deliver a compelling, 10-minute presentation to the LGS Board of Regents, who will evaluate the nominees using a comprehensive set of predetermined criteria to determine the honoree.