Monday, September 17, 2007

Ambassadors for Economic Development were honored by Gov. Mark Sanford at a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion Complex on Monday, September 17, 2007. The individuals were recognized for exceptional efforts to further community and economic development initiatives throughout the state.

Each year, the Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank business and industry for its contributions to South Carolina’s economy. Ambassadors for Economic Development include local leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.

“From Day 1, our administration has been committed to improving the business climate so that businesses can prosper. Efforts like workers’ comp reform, tort reform, and income tax relief have paid real dividends in our state’s ability to compete,” Sanford said in a press release announcing the awards. “I’d give real credit as well to the individuals who have gone above and beyond to encourage growth in their respective communities. South Carolina thanks them for their efforts to create jobs and economic opportunity throughout the state.”

 Dr. Frank Cox, President and General Manager of Roche Carolina, was among those honored from across the state. The contributions Dr. Cox makes to economic development efforts in Florence County are tremendous. He serves as Chair of the Florence Education and Business Alliance and has been instrumental in implementing programs that educate high school students on the attractiveness of careers in manufacturing, even providing workforce development programs to develop career skills that prepare students for success in this field. Dr. Cox serves on numerous boards in Florence County, including the Pee Dee Regional Education Council, the Florence Chamber of Commerce, and ScienceSouth. Under the leadership of Dr. Cox, Roche has provided financial support, as well as in-kind and leadership support to ScienceSouth and has also housed the program’s offices in Roche’s facility.   The company continues to flourish in Florence County under his watch, as evidenced by a $60 million, 40-job expansion of their facility in April 2007. 

 “The contributions made by Dr. Cox in Florence County are immeasurable.  He is an integral part of our community and has always been eager to lend his time and knowledge for causes that benefit our citizens”, said Joe W. King, Executive Director of Florence County Economic Development Partnership.  “We would like to congratulate Dr. Cox, not only in receiving this well deserved recognition, but also for his dedication to the betterment of Florence County on a daily basis.”

Dr. Cox has been an asset to the Florence County Economic Development Partnership by providing insight on doing business in the community to prospective companies scouting Florence as a potential location. His actions clearly display his commitment to helping Florence County continue to grow and prosper.