The Liberty Fellowship is less than a decade old, but its roots go back centuries to concepts of creating a just society. A deep love of South Carolina, a steadfast faith in current and future leaders and a conviction that change is possible led Hayne Hipp to found the Liberty Fellowship.

2002-2003. Concept creation. Hayne Hipp works with Bernie Dunlap, President-Wofford College, to develop a program that builds upon the proven approach of the Aspen Institute. However, the Liberty Fellowship is designed to take that approach to a different level – Fellows are expected to take action to benefit South Carolina.

Jennie Johnson, seasoned business executive, comes on board to lead the Liberty Fellowship, putting the pieces in place for a smooth implementation.

2004. Engaging Top Leaders of South Carolina. Armed with this concept, the public is invited to nomiate candidates; Board Members and Senior Advisors are recruited to support efforts of Fellows with their projects once the program begins.

Class One Begins. Two years of planning and work pay off. The first class of 20 Fellows – all with amazing credentials and a hunger to hone their ability to lead and to act – is launched.

2009. Evaluation. With the launch of the 5th class, Liberty Fellowship undergoes an extensive independent evaluation. All Fellows and most Senior Advisors participate in extensive one-on-one interviews. Findings: Overwhelming evidence that Liberty Fellowship empowers proven leaders to think and act more openly and have the courage to act. 100% of the Fellows identify specific ways to make South Carolina a stronger state. They also offer specific recommendations for strengthening implementation and boosting potential for impact.

2010. Taking Liberty Fellowship to the Next Level: Forums. The evaluation revealed that Fellows and Senior Advisors, while highly supportive, wanted more. Over and over, Fellows and Senior Advisors identified a gap in building on the fledgling relationships and collaborations to address pressing issues facing the state. As a result, Forums are launched, providing Fellows the opportunity to collaborate with Senior Advisors and leading thinkers and doers in arenas of Health/Environment, Education, Economic Development and Public Policy.