SC Equality Board of Directors
South Carolina Equality Board of Directors are group of dedicated advocates and leaders across South Carolina. Their expertise, decades of experience, and vision serve as a guide to achieving a more equitable and affirming South Carolina.
Board Chair
Doug Yates
Retired anesthesiologist, Doug is a dedicated advocate. He is a visionary advocate and aims to see a South Carolina where everyone feels like they belong. A fan of live entertainment and travel, Doug resides in Columbia, SC with his fiance.
Secretary
Ann Willibrand
A former chemistry professor at USC Aiken, Ann is the institutional glue that keeps SC Equality going. As a dedicated advocate, she also serves on her local PFLAG and volunteers with several community organizations
Treasurer
Dianne Odom
Dianne is a business owner in Columbia, SC. As a financial planner and CPA, she leads by making sure SC Equality has the resources we need to succeed.
Board Member
Christine Simmons
Christine is an entrepreneur and leader. Our most recent addition to the SC Equality Board, Christine, is dynamic and strategic, aiming to bring people together and build them up. She was a founding member of Soda City Dems, a former candidate for Mayor of Arcadia Lakes, and is currently an outspoken organizer for several civil rights issues.
Member
Talia Adkins
Talia Adkins, a University of South Carolina graduate, brings a background in political strategy and government affairs to the SC Equality board of directors. She works at Civint alongside Steve Benjamin and Sam Johnson, where she focuses on navigating the intersection of policy, politics, and public engagement. Her experience in government affairs strengthens SC Equality's capacity to advance LGBTQ+ civil rights at the State House and across South Carolina. She joins the board committed to the organization's mission that equal means everyone.
Member
Roy Willey
Roy Willey is a dedicated trial attorney and board member of SC Equality. As a partner at Poulin Willey Anastopoulo, he’s recognized among America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators and focuses on championing individuals’ rights rather than representing large corporations