Born in Sumter, South Carolina, Jimmy moved to the Lowcountry at age 12. He received his formal education at the University of South Carolina and The Citadel. After a tour in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot, and successful construction and cable television businesses, his association with Southeastern Wildlife Exposition began in 1983, when he served as a volunteer art and staff coordinator. In 1987, his role changed drastically when he and a group of businessmen bought out the financially struggling event. Serving as Executive Director from 1987 until 1998, Jimmy became President and CEO of the organization in 1998. He currently lives in Summerville, SC with his wife, Beth.

A native of Greenville, North Carolina, and a graduate of Davidson College, John lives in downtown Charleston and joined the SEWE staff full-time in April 2007. 
 As Executive Director, John oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization. He works with SEWE corporate partners, and oversees the coordination of all SEWE exhibitors and layouts for all SEWE venues. John lives downtown with his wife, Davy and their two dogs. [email protected]

Originally from Burgaw, North Carolina, Natalie joined SEWE’s staff in July 2009, and became the Art Curator in August 2011. Upon graduating from North Carolina State University, she earned her Event Management Certification from George Washington University School of Business. Natalie, her husband, and two children live in Mount Pleasant. [email protected]

A native of the Charleston area, Beth graduated from Winthrop University in Interior Design. Beth has two daughters, Davy and Jesse, two stepdaughters, Lainey and Robyn, a grandson, Eliott and a granddaughter, Merritt. She has a cavapoo named Harriett Rose, six little chickens and is known to take home just about any other creature Jimmy will allow. [email protected]

A Charleston native, Shelby grew up attending SEWE from a very young age. She has a deep appreciation of the history, education and hospitality of the Exposition. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, she assists with the day to day operations of the organization along with the special projects and events. [email protected]

Originally from Lexington, Kentucky, Mary moved to Charleston after graduating from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Integrated Strategic Marketing and Public Relations. She started her career as the Marketing Director for a local commercial real estate and development firm. Mary joined the SEWE team in 2010 and became the Director of Marketing in 2012. She lives in Mt Pleasant with her husband, three little boys and dog, Birdie. [email protected]