Please join us Monday Oct 1st 2018

We welcome you and your guests for lunch and a presentation by Nancy Smith General Manager of the State Fair!

Nancy Smith General Manager State Fair

Nancy L. Smith:  Ms. Smith’s fair experience began in the home and craft department of the South Carolina State Fair, where she eventually became superintendent. She assumed a full-time position in 2000, as director of entertainment and exhibits. In this position, Ms. Smith directed grounds entertainment, special days, promotions, exhibits, and design of various departments throughout the fair. Ms. Smith worked with media representatives regarding advertising and public relations and served as office manager.

In 2003, Ms. Smith became involved in sponsorship and marketing opportunities, including integration of exhibits and entertainment to facilitate growth in this area.  Since 2003, the fair’s sponsorship program grew from approximately $32,000 to over $350,000. She was promoted to Assistant Manager in February of 2008 and in January of 2018, assumed leadership of the fair as the Secretary/General Manager.

Smith is very involved in the fair industry and the South Carolina Association of Fairs. She earned her Certified Fair Executive designation in 2006. She was previously on the Speakers Bureau for the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) where she served on the board as Zone 2 Director, representing 8 states in the southeast. Smith is presently on the Executive Committee of the IAFE and will assume the role of Chair of this international association in 2020.

A native of Columbia, South Carolina, Ms. Smith was previously employed in the catering business. She is a member of First Presbyterian Associate Reformed Church in Columbia, SC. Additionally, Smith serves on the SC Philharmonic’s Advisory Board and the Board of Directors of the Babcock Center Foundation, an organization dedicated to serving and improving the lives of those with lifelong disabilities.

Smith considers it an honor to be involved in an industry that makes a positive difference in our community and state.