CHARLESTON, SC—Karel Givens has been named Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Liaison Officer for the Charleston County Aviation Authority, owner and operator of Charleston International Airport, Charleston Executive Airport and Mount Pleasant Regional Airport.
In her new role with the Authority, Karel will manage the Minority-owned, Women-owned Business Enterprise Program (MWBE) and DBE Initiatives for the Authority, federal ACDBE/DBE program, and Specialty Leasing Kiosk program. Karel will serve as the day-to-day representative of the Authority, to the local and regional community in promoting DBE initiatives.
Karel joins the Authority with more than 17 years of public and government administration work experience. She most recently served as Vice President of Administration and Development for City Center Partnership Inc. where she developed, implemented, and managed private grant programs; and facilitated the acquisition of funds from county and state administrations. She comanaged the City of Columbia’s rebranding of the Main Street District. Prior to that, Karel spent more than 8 years working in business development, marketing, and planning.
“We are pleased to have Karel join us,” said Elliott Summey, airport executive director & CEO. “Her knowledge and experience in working with local business owners, community stakeholders, and government officials will advance our mission for full participation of minorities and women in employment and contracting opportunities.”
Karel began work at the Aviation Authority on February 14, 2022.