LaMyra S. Dukes is a strategic leader joining our Board of Directors as Chairperson with over a decade of experience in non-profit governance, strategic planning, and program compliance, primarily serving early childhood and community development sectors in South Carolina. As a Certified Grants Specialist, LaMyra brings critical expertise in financial oversight, ensuring regulatory adherence, and securing resources necessary for organizational growth.
In her current role as a Program Officer for the Piedmont Region of South Carolina First Steps, she monitors programmatic compliance and provides coaching to executive directors on effective board governance, by-laws, and adherence to state regulations across a nine-county partnership network. This hands-on experience in training leadership and managing multi-county operations, including budget monitoring of over $200,000, ensures she possesses a keen understanding of the operational challenges and fiduciary responsibilities of non-profit boards.
Previously, as the Executive Director of Orangeburg County First Steps, LaMyra partnered directly with the Board of Directors to develop the organization’s vision and strategic plan. Her leadership included managing a significant operational budget, advocating with community leaders and funders, and successfully overseeing all internal program monitoring. LaMyra’s ability to interpret complex federal and state guidelines, translating regulations into clear policies, makes her an invaluable asset to our governance structure.