This distinction recognizes not only the Rhodes family鈥檚 long-standing business success, but also their deep commitment to generational continuity, community impact, and the advancement of family enterprise throughout South Carolina.听

Founded by Kenneth Rhodes, the second-generation family business has grown into a highly respected insurance agency serving clients across South Carolina and Georgia. Known for its unwavering commitment to personalized service, integrity, and long-term relationships, Kenneth Rhodes & Associates exemplifies the values that define enduring family enterprises.听听

As a Founding Family, Kenneth Rhodes & Associates joins a select group of multi-generational enterprises dedicated to investing in the future of family business through education, collaboration, and shared learning. Founding Families play a critical role in shaping the Institute鈥檚 foundation鈥攐ffering wisdom, leadership, and financial support to ensure that family enterprises across the Palmetto State thrive for generations to come.听听

鈥淲e are honored to welcome Kenneth Rhodes & Associates as a Founding Family of the Institute,鈥� said Dr. Brad Bechtold, Executive Director of FEISC. 鈥淜enneth and Luke Rhodes represent the very best of family enterprise鈥攍eaders who understand both the privilege and responsibility of stewarding a business across generations. Their investment is not only in their own legacy, but in the future of family businesses across South Carolina.鈥�听

Kenneth Rhodes, Principal Agent and CEO, shared his perspective on the significance of this commitment:听

鈥淏ecoming a Founding Family of the Institute is a meaningful step for our business and our family. We believe strongly in the importance of learning from others, sharing our experiences, and investing in the future of family enterprise. This opportunity allows us to contribute to something larger than ourselves鈥攈elping ensure that family businesses across our state remain strong, connected, and prepared for the next generation.鈥�听

The Founding Family designation reflects a five-year commitment to the Institute鈥檚 mission, including active participation in educational programming, peer learning, and mentorship of other family enterprises. Founding Families serve as ambassadors of the Institute, contributing both intellectual and social capital while helping to build a trusted community of enterprise-owning families.听听

Kenneth Rhodes & Associates鈥� recent recognition as the Greenville Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year further underscores the strength of their leadership and their impact on the community鈥攓ualities that align closely with the Institute鈥檚 vision of cultivating resilient, values-driven family enterprises. .听

About Kenneth Rhodes & Associates, Inc.听

Kenneth Rhodes & Associates, Inc. is a family-owned insurance agency with location throughout the upstate of South Carolina and NortheastGeorgia offering comprehensive insurance solutions to individuals and businesses across the Southeast. Built on a foundation of trust, service and relationships, the firm continues to grow while maintaining its commitment to personalized client care and community engagement.听

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 exists to empower family-owned businesses through education, research, and meaningful connection. By addressing the unique dynamics of family enterprise鈥攊ncluding governance, succession planning, and leadership development鈥攖he Institute equips families to build lasting legacies that strengthen both business and community.听

听

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Based in Clemson, South Carolina, ISS is a respected provider of engineering software and support services, known for its commitment to excellence, customer service, and industry expertise. ISS was founded in 1984 by Everett Thomas, a retired USAF Colonel. Under the second-generation leadership of Reid Thomas, President, and Sarah Maiberger, Vice President, ISS has built a strong reputation as a values-driven enterprise dedicated to both business success and meaningful relationships. Sarah鈥檚 husband, Phil, worked for ISS for almost 15 years and her daughter, Hannah, currently works in the business.听

Framing Family members of FEISC are forward-thinking enterprise families who seek not only to grow their businesses, but also to strengthen family unity, governance, and generational continuity. These families actively engage in educational programming, peer learning, and collaborative dialogue with other family business leaders across the state.听听

鈥淲e are honored to welcome Phil, Sarah, and the entire Maiberger family as a Framing Family of the Institute,鈥� said Founding Executive Director of FEISC Dr. Brad Bechtold. 鈥淭heir commitment to excellence, learning, and stewardship reflects the very essence of what it means to be a family enterprise. Their leadership will not only benefit their own organization, butwill also contribute meaningfully to the broader community of family businesses across South Carolina.鈥�听

As a Framing Family, Integrated Support Systems will participate in a wide range of FEISC offerings, including educational programs, exclusive networking opportunities, and access to research and thought leadership from 91福利社. The Maiberger family will also collaborate with other enterprise families to address key challenges such as succession planning, governance, leadership development, and sustaining family harmony while achieving business success.听

鈥淧hil and I are excited to deepen our involvement with the Family Enterprise Institute,鈥� said Sarah Maiberger, Vice President of Business Administration at Integrated Support Systems. 鈥淲e believe strongly in the power of learning from other family businesses and investing in the long-term health of both our company and our family. Becoming a Framing Family is a meaningful step in that journey.鈥�听

The FEISC continues to expand its statewide impact by bringing together family-owned enterprises from across the Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry, fostering a collaborative environment where families can learn, grow, and thrive together.听

About Integrated Support Systems
Integrated Support Systems (ISS), headquartered in Clemson, South Carolina, provides innovative, high-performance software designed to the aerospace and defense industry. With a focus on reliability, service, and long-term partnerships, ISS serves clients across a range of industries with tailored solutions that drive performance and success.听

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 exists to educate, connect, and empower family-owned businesses across the state. Through innovative programming, peer networks, and expert resources, the Institute supports enterprise families in navigating the complexities of business, family, and ownership to ensure sustainability for generations to come.听

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Jani-King of Greenville-Spartanburg, a leader in commercial cleaning and facility services, is known for delivering high-quality, reliable solutions to businesses throughout the Upstate. With a strong emphasis on professionalism, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence, the organization continues to make a meaningful impact across a wide range of industries.听

鈥淲e are thrilled to welcome Jani-King of Greenville-Spartanburg to the Institute,鈥� said FEISC Executive Director Dr. Brad Bechtold. 鈥淭heir commitment to excellence and service aligns beautifully with our mission to support and elevate family enterprises across South Carolina. We look forward to walking alongside their team as they continue to grow, lead, and build a lasting legacy.鈥�听

As a member of the Institute, Jani-King of Greenville-Spartanburg will gain access to a dynamic community of family business leaders, educational programming, and resources designed to strengthen governance, leadership development, and multigenerational continuity.听

鈥淛oining the Institute represents an exciting opportunity for us to connect with other family enterprises and continue growing both personally and professionally,鈥� said Olivia Orren of Jani-King of Greenville-Spartanburg. 鈥淲e are honored to be part of a network that values relationships, shared learning, and long-term success for family businesses across our state.鈥�听

About Jani-King of Greenville-Spartanburg听

Jani-King of Greenville-Spartanburg provides comprehensive commercial cleaning and janitorial services to businesses across the Upstate of South Carolina. Backed by the global Jani-King brand, the Greenville-Spartanburg location combines proven systems with local ownership and personalized service. Their team is dedicated to maintaining clean, safe, and healthy environments for clients across industries, delivering consistent quality and trusted results.听

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina听

The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina (FEISC) at 91福利社 exists to support and strengthen family-owned businesses across the state. Through world-class programming, peer networks, and advisory resources, the Institute equips family enterprises to navigate leadership transitions, governance, and growth with confidence. Serving members across the Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry, FEISC is building a vibrant community committed to sustaining family business success for generations.听

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Merit Technologies, led by CEO Abe Varughese and President Theresa Varughese, is known for its innovative approach to technology solutions and its commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients. By joining the FEISC, Merit Technologies aligns itself with a statewide network dedicated to advancing family enterprise excellence through education, collaboration, and shared best practices.听

鈥淲e are honored to welcome Merit Technologies into the Institute,鈥� said FEISC Executive Director Dr. Brad Bechtold. 鈥淎be and Theresa and their family exemplify the leadership, innovation, and stewardship that define strong family enterprises. Their engagement will not only enhance their own journey but also contribute meaningfully to the collective strength of family businesses across South Carolina.鈥�听

As a member of FEISC, Merit Technologies will gain access to exclusive programming, peer networks, and thought leadership designed to support leadership development, governance, succession planning, and strategic growth.听

鈥淲e are excited to join the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina and become part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking community,鈥� said Abe Varughese. 鈥淎t Merit Technologies, we value continuous learning and collaboration, and we look forward to engaging with fellow members to share insights, build relationships, and strengthen the future of family enterprise in our state.鈥�听

The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina serves as a hub for family-owned businesses across the state, providing resources, education, and a trusted network to help families navigate the complexities of business and family dynamics while sustaining their legacy for generations to come.听

About Merit Technologies Merit Technologies is a leading provider specializing in software development, managed services, and IT support. As a Managed Service Provider, the company delivers innovative technology solutions, including applications in artificial intelligence (AI), tailored to client needs to leverage wisely these emerging technologies. Their expertise spans custom software development, comprehensive IT support, and proactive management of technology infrastructure, enabling clients to focus on standards, safety, privacy and growth of their IT systems.听听

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 exists to support and sustain family-owned businesses across the Palmetto State. Through educational programming, peer learning, and strategic resources, the Institute equips family enterprises to navigate leadership transitions, strengthen governance, and build lasting legacies.听

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Led by Thomas and Austin Rhodes, Rhodes Companies is a family-owned holding company with deep roots in South Carolina and a long-standing commitment to serving schools, students and communities across the Southeast. Through its operating businesses, Rhodes Companies provides graduation products and services, school recognition programs, branded merchandise and marketing and branding support for K-12 and education-related organizations. The company has also expanded its long-term business ownership and investment activities through EverPine Holdings, a platform focused on acquiring and stewarding durable small and mid-sized businesses.听

Framing Family members of the Institute are enterprise families committed not only to growing their businesses, but also to strengthening family leadership, governance, communication, and generational continuity through active engagement with peers and practical educational resources.听

鈥淲e are honored to welcome Thomas, Austin, and the Rhodes family as a Framing Family of the Institute,鈥� said Executive Director of the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina Dr. Brad Bechtold. 鈥淩hodes Companies reflects the kind of long-term commitment, thoughtful leadership and family enterprise stewardship that this Institute is designed to support. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to the perspective they will bring to our community.鈥�听

As a Framing Family, Rhodes Companies will participate in Institute programming focused on leadership development, governance, succession planning and peer learning among family-owned enterprises throughout South Carolina.听

鈥淲e are honored to be part of the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute and to join a community that takes family business stewardship seriously,鈥� said Austin Rhodes. 鈥淎s our family enterprise continues to evolve, we value the opportunity to learn from others, strengthen how we think about leadership and continuity, and contribute to the broader family business community across South Carolina.鈥�听

About Rhodes Companies
Rhodes Companies is a family-owned holding company based in Columbia, South Carolina. Through its operating businesses, the company serves schools, students, and communities across the Southeast through graduation products and services, school recognition programs, branded merchandise, and marketing and branding support for K-12 and education-related organizations. The company also invests in and supports durable small and mid-sized businesses through its EverPine Holdings platform.听

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 exists to educate, connect, and empower family-owned businesses across the state. Through programming, peer networks, and expert resources, the Institute helps enterprise families navigate the complexities of business, family, and ownership and build enduring enterprises across generations.听

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Founded more than 25 years ago, Steve White Auto Group is one of Greenville鈥檚 only family-owned dealerships, representing Volkswagen, Audi, and Volvo, in addition to offering a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles. The dealership, now led by second-generation owner Marc White, has grown to include more than 150 team members while remaining committed to its founding values of Integrity, Excellence, Professionalism and Family.

鈥淔amily enterprises like Steve White Auto Group are at the heart of South Carolina鈥檚 economy and culture,鈥� said Dr. Brad Bechtold, Executive Director of the FEISC. 鈥淭heir dedication to both business excellence and family legacy aligns perfectly with our mission to help families thrive across generations. We are honored to have them as a Framing Family.鈥�

As a Framing Family, Steve White Auto Group will gain access to exclusive benefits including peer-learning opportunities, educational programming led by 91福利社 faculty and national experts, networking events with other family enterprises, and recognition as an ambassador for family business sustainability.

鈥淛oining the Family Enterprise Institute is a natural step for us,鈥� said Marc White, President of Steve White Auto Group. 鈥淥ur business has always been about more than selling cars鈥攊t鈥檚 about serving families and building community. Becoming a Framing Family allows us to celebrate our legacy while also connecting with other business families across the Palmetto State who are working to preserve theirs. We see this as both a privilege and a responsibility to strengthen the larger family business community in South Carolina.鈥�

About Steve White Auto Group and the Institute

Both Steve White Auto Group and the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina share a deep commitment to fostering values that extend beyond business. The dealership鈥檚 emphasis on integrity, customer service and family reflects the very qualities the Institute seeks to encourage among family enterprises statewide. Together, they represent a partnership grounded in the belief that strong families and strong businesses build stronger communities.

鈥淭he White family鈥檚 commitment to family values, business integrity and community service is exactly the type of legacy we want to highlight through the Institute,鈥� added Dr. Bechtold. 鈥淏y becoming a Framing Family, they are not only investing in their own generational future but also in the success of other family enterprises across the Palmetto State. Their leadership sets an example for others to follow.鈥�

For more information about Steve White Auto Group, visit .
To learn more about the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina, visit .

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The newly appointed Advisory Council members are:听

• Sarah Maiberger, Vice President and Controller, Integrated Support Systems听

• Sarah Curnow, Co-Founder and CEO, Credo Software听

• Kip Miller, Chairman, Eastern Industrial Supplies听

• Jay McAfee, CEO, Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes听

• Ava Smith, President, Flat Fee Recruiting听

• Abe Webber, Vice President of Operations, Super Duper Publications听

• John Barnes, President and Chief Visionary Officer, WorkSmart Staffing听

鈥淲e are honored to welcome this accomplished group of professionals to our Advisory Council,鈥� said Dr. Brad Bechtold, Executive Director of the Institute. 鈥淓ach brings unique insights, deep experience and a shared commitment to strengthening multigenerational family businesses across our state.鈥�听

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina听

The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina (FEISC), housed within the College of Business and Economics at 91福利社, exists to support, educate and equip family-owned businesses as they grow, transition and thrive across generations.听

Rooted in research and real-world practice, the Institute provides education, peer learning and expert resources for family businesses navigating the complex intersections of business, ownership, and family. Our programming includes statewide events, confidential roundtables, annual conferences and custom engagements鈥攂ringing together owners, successors, professionals and thought leaders dedicated to long-term success.听

The Institute is committed to making a statewide impact and fostering a future where family enterprises of all industries, sizes and backgrounds contribute robustly to South Carolina鈥檚 economy.听

The Role of the Advisory Council听

The Advisory Council serves a vital leadership and governance function within the Institute. Comprised of 15 leaders from family-owned businesses and strategic partners, the Council advises the Executive Committee and Institute leadership on strategy, programming, membership development and overall impact.听

Council members meet regularly to offer guidance on the Institute鈥檚 strategic direction and ensure that its work remains responsive, relevant and effective for South Carolina鈥檚 business families. Members are active participants in Institute events and serve as ambassadors for its mission鈥攑romoting a collaborative, confidential and values-driven environment for family enterprise learning.听

鈥淚n today鈥檚 rapidly changing business environment, family enterprises need places where they can learn from one another, grow stronger together, and plan wisely for the future,鈥� said Drew Brown, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Godshall Recruiting and Chair of the Advisory Council. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 exactly what this Institute offers. I鈥檓 excited to welcome this exceptional group of leaders to the Council and look forward to the energy and insight they will bring.鈥�听

For more information about the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina, visit
www.andersonuniversity.edu/feisc听

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Dr. Brad Bechtold, executive director of the Institute, expressed his enthusiasm. 鈥�We are delighted to welcome Gilston Insurance Agency to our growing network of family enterprises. Their dedication to exceptional service and strong family business values aligns perfectly with our mission to support and empower family-owned businesses. We look forward to working alongside them as they continue to grow and navigate the complexities of family enterprise leadership.鈥�

Melanie Ensminger, President of Gilston Insurance Agency, shared her excitement about joining the Institute. 鈥淎t Gilston Insurance Agency, we understand the unique challenges and rewards of operating a family business. Joining the Family Enterprise Institute provides us with invaluable resources, expert insights, and a community of like-minded business leaders. We are eager to engage with the Institute鈥檚 programs and further strengthen our company for future generations.鈥�

With a long-standing history of excellence in the insurance industry, Gilston Insurance Agency has built a reputation for integrity, client-focused service, and multigenerational family leadership.

Gilston Insurance Agency joins a distinguished group of family-owned businesses at the Institute, which provides education, networking, and advisory resources tailored to the unique challenges of family enterprises. Members benefit from exclusive workshops, leadership development programs, and a supportive peer network, all designed to help family businesses navigate governance, succession planning, and long-term strategy.

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina

The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 is dedicated to supporting and strengthening family-owned businesses through education, peer networking, and expert advisory services. By providing tools and resources tailored to the unique challenges of family enterprises, the Institute helps businesses navigate succession planning, governance, leadership development, and long-term sustainability.

About Gilston Insurance Agency

Gilston Insurance Agency is a leading provider of insurance solutions with a strong commitment to personalized service and community engagement. As a family-owned business, Gilston Insurance Agency has built a legacy of trust and expertise, offering customized insurance plans to individuals, families, businesses, and seniors. With a focus on innovation and long-term client relationships, the company continues to serve its customers with dedication and excellence.

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Specializing in waste management and environmental solutions, Pascon, LLC has built a reputation for providing reliable service and sustainable waste solutions across South Carolina. Their membership in the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute underscores their commitment to continuous learning, leadership development, and the long-term success of family-owned businesses.

鈥淲e are excited to welcome Pascon, LLC to our Institute,鈥� said Dr. Brad Bechtold, Executive Director of the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute. 鈥淭heir dedication to sustainable business practices and their multi-generational leadership make them a perfect fit for our growing network of family enterprises across the Palmetto State. We look forward to supporting them as they continue to thrive and adapt in an ever-evolving industry.鈥�

Beth Ann Puryear, Operations Team Member and third-generation leader of Pascon, LLC, shared her enthusiasm about being a new member. 鈥淏eing part of the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute is an incredible opportunity for our company. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with running a family business, and we鈥檙e eager to learn from and contribute to a community that values family business longevity and success.鈥�

As a member of the Institute, Pascon, LLC will gain access to a variety of resources designed to support family-owned businesses, including workshops, peer advisory groups, and expert-led discussions. This partnership highlights the shared mission of fostering resilience and growth among family enterprises throughout South Carolina.

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina:
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 is dedicated to supporting family-owned businesses through education, research, and community engagement. The Institute offers a range of programs designed to help family enterprises succeed across generations.

About Pascon, LLC:
Pascon, LLC is a family-owned environmental services company specializing in waste management and disposal solutions. With a focus on customer service, sustainability, and community impact, Pascon, LLC has been a trusted partner in the industry for generations.

For more information about The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社, please visit www.andersonuniversity.edu/feisc/ or contact Dr. Brad Bechtold by email at bbechtold@andersonuniversity.edu.

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Batson Associates, Inc., based in Greenville, South Carolina, is a highly respected architecture, planning and interiors firm that has been serving clients for more than 40 years. With a strong reputation for innovative design and a client-centered approach, Batson Associates, Inc. has built a legacy of excellence that spans generations. Their decision to join the Institute reflects their dedication to continuous improvement and their desire to strengthen their family enterprise.

鈥淲e are delighted to welcome Batson Associates, Inc. to our family business community,鈥� said Dr. Brad Bechtold, Executive Director of the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina. 鈥淭heir expertise in architecture, planning and interiors, combined with their commitment to excellence and innovation, aligns perfectly with our mission to provide education, resources, and support to family-owned enterprises. We look forward to working together to advance their legacy and future success.鈥�

Louis P. Batson III, Chairman of Batson Associates, Inc., expressed enthusiasm for the membership: 鈥淲e are excited to join the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina. As a family-owned business, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with sustaining a legacy. Being part of the Institute will provide invaluable resources and connections that will help us grow, innovate, and continue serving our clients with excellence.鈥�

The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 is dedicated to serving family-owned businesses through education, networking, and research. The Institute provides a platform for family enterprises to thrive by addressing their unique challenges and fostering a supportive community.

For more information about the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina and its programs, please visit or contact Dr. Brad Bechtold at bbechtold@andersonuniversity.edu.

About Batson Associates, Inc.:
Batson Associates, Inc. is a family-owned architecture, planning, and interiors firm based in Greenville, South Carolina. With a commitment to innovative design and client-focused solutions, the firm has built a reputation for excellence in the industry. Their expertise spans a range of projects, from health care and institutional facilities to commercial projects, ensuring that each project reflects both functionality and aesthetic integrity.

About the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina:
The Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at 91福利社 is dedicated to empowering family-owned businesses through innovative education, research, and networking opportunities. The Institute supports family enterprises in navigating the complexities of family business dynamics, governance, succession planning, and more.

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