A Message from Andrew Gowdown, Outgoing President

As my term as President of the Brain Injury Association of South Carolina comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect with gratitude on the work we have accomplished together. Serving as President has been both an honor and a constant reminder that we can each make a difference. Over the past 2 years, our organization has continued to strengthen its commitment to survivors of brain injury, their families, and caregivers across South Carolina — always guided by the voices and needs of the community we serve. 

I am extremely proud of the meaningful progress we have made in strengthening our mission and expanding our reach across the state. Together, we have: 

• Expanded Support Group Accessibility 

We have continued to grow support services for survivors of brain injury and their families by enhancing statewide support group offerings, both in-person and virtually — welcoming survivors and caregivers at every stage of their journey. 

• Increased Education and Training for Diverse Audiences 

We have significantly expanded our education and training programs to reach a broad cross-section of the community, including caregivers, healthcare professionals, law enforcement officers, educators, and athletic trainers, to name a few. These trainings have equipped critical partners with the knowledge and tools to recognize, respond to, and support brain injury survivors with confidence and compassion. 

• Continued Leadership in Concussion Awareness & Safety 

Under the South Carolina Brain Injury Safety Net initiative, we have improved informational resources and coordination for concussion management — especially for youth — and strengthened partnerships with schools, families, clinicians, and athletic staff to support safe return-to-learn and return-to-play practices. 

• Enhanced Resource Access and Advocacy 

Through our toll-free help line, resource facilitation services, and distribution of resource kits statewide, we have ensured that survivors, families, and professionals can readily access critical information and support. We have also maintained a strong voice in advocacy — representing the brain injury community on state committees and working to influence policies that enhance services and protections. 

• Strengthened Outreach and Community Engagement 

From our annual Life With Brain Injury Conference to public education events, we have broadened awareness of brain injury issues and fostered community connections that help reduce isolation and promote healing. 

Of course, none of this progress would have been possible without the dedication of our amazing BIASC staff and Executive Director, Joyce Davis, as well as our many volunteers, partners, and supporters. A special thanks also goes to our incredible Board. I am deeply grateful for your collaboration, leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our mission. 

As I step aside, I am pleased to welcome longtime Board member, Larry Lucas, as our next President. Larry brings passion, experience, and vision to this role, and I am confident that under his leadership, the organization will continue to grow and make a lasting impact. I look forward to supporting Larry and the Board as BIASC enters this next chapter. 

Thank you for the trust you placed in me and for the opportunity to serve. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and excited for what lies ahead! 

With sincere appreciation, 

Andrew Gowdown 
President 
Brain Injury Association of South Carolina