Milestone event will celebrate Conservation, Commerce, and Leadership in South Carolina
Individual tickets are now on sale for the 10th-annual Global Eco Adventures (GEA) EcoBall. The dinner and awards ceremony will be held on EARTH DAY, Wednesday evening, April 22, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., 701 Whaley Street in Columbia, South Carolina.
Having become one of the Palmetto State’s premier gatherings of business, conservation, government, and community leaders, this year’s EcoBall marks a milestone 10th-anniversary celebration highlighting the powerful connection between environmental stewardship and long-term economic strength in South Carolina.
The state’s prosperity has long been rooted in its natural assets, working forests and farms, ports and waterways, fisheries, tourism destinations, energy innovation, and outdoor heritage. The EcoBall celebrates the understanding that conservation is not separate from commerce: It is foundational to it.
“Environmental sustainability and economic sustainability are mutually reinforcing,” said Keller Kissam, Master of Ceremonies for the EcoBall. “A resilient coastline supports tourism and commerce. Healthy forests and watersheds protect infrastructure and supply chains. Innovation in energy and conservation drives workforce development and new industry growth.”
SUPPORTING FUTURE LEADERS
Proceeds from the 2026 EcoBall will benefit GEA programs and the Mary Elizabeth Mullikin Scholarship Fund, established in April 2025 to honor a cherished member of the GEA family. The fund supports students pursuing studies in healthcare policy, law, and environmental sciences are disciplines critical to shaping responsible growth and public policy in South Carolina’s future.
Investing in these students represents an investment in the state’s future workforce, innovation pipeline, and long-term economic resilience.
AN EVENING OF CELEBRATION AND PURPOSE
The 10th Annual EcoBall will feature:
• Black tie optional event
• A seated dinner
• Live entertainment
• An awards ceremony recognizing distinguished leaders in conservation, public service, and education
• Opportunities for public-private partnership and collaboration
The event serves as a gathering of leaders who understand that strong environmental policy enhances business confidence, strengthens communities, and drives sustainable growth across South Carolina.
SPONSORSHIP AND TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets are now available. Sponsorship opportunities are also open for businesses and organizations seeking to demonstrate leadership in conservation and economic development.
For ticket purchases and sponsorship information, please visit the GEA website (globalecoadventures.org) or contact: Maria Ouzounidis ([email protected]) or Desiree Watson ([email protected]).
– Pictured (L-R) are S.C. Senator Thomas Alexander, president of the S.C. Senate; S.C. Governor Henry McMaster; Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette; and Dr. Tom Mullikin, director of the S.C. Department of Natural Resources during a previous EcoBall.