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.
Member
Veronica Walters
Veronica Walters serves on SC Equality’s Board with decades of advocacy experience, including her work on the Myrtle Beach Human Rights Commission’s expansion of LGBT protections. A dedicated trans rights advocate, she has championed expanded healthcare services and guided the development of a new Conway facility to make South Carolina more inclusive for all.
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
Member
Nekki Shutt
Nekki Shutt is a certified South Carolina employment law specialist and co-founder of Burnette Shutt & McDaniel. As a 2002 co-founder of SC Equality, she led the legal team that secured same-sex marriage rights in South Carolina ahead of the U.S. Supreme Court. Her dedication to social justice and mentorship continues to shape inclusive policies and inspire the next generation of attorneys
Member
Dean Pierce
Dean Pierce is an attorney and entrepreneur based in Hilton Head, South Carolina, dedicated to fostering collaboration and community strength. With a passion for innovative problem-solving, he leverages his legal expertise and business acumen to support inclusive initiatives statewide. Believing that we are stronger together, Dean actively champions partnerships that drive positive change for all.