The South Carolina Bar Foundation was pleased to be on site in Savannah, Georgia, for the 2026 South Carolina Bar Convention—an event focused on continuing legal education, professional development, and meaningful connection. A particular highlight of the Convention was welcoming our grantees, whose participation was made possible through funding provided by the Foundation. For many grantees, the cost of attending would otherwise be prohibitive, limiting their ability to take part in the largest gathering of South Carolina legal professionals, including members of the judiciary, legislators, and other leaders within the legal community.
CLE Programming for Public Interest Lawyers and Staff
The Foundation sponsored a CLE program designed by public interest lawyers and for public interest lawyers. The program sparked thoughtful discussion and renewed momentum among attendees. It was energizing to see Foundation grantees from across the state come together to learn, collaborate, and exchange ideas that strengthen both the legal profession and the communities it serves.
In addition to this special programming, the Foundation hosted a Grantee Luncheon, where grantees were joined by Chris Koon, President of the South Carolina Bar. This gathering provided an important opportunity for grantees to build relationships, share their missions, and deepen their connections within the broader legal community.
Cocktails at Convention
The South Carolina Bar Foundation hosts its signature fundraising event, Cocktails in the Courtyard, in four cities across South Carolina to raise awareness of the vital work of Foundation grantees and to generate support for their efforts. Building on that tradition, the Foundation hosted Cocktails at Convention in Savannah—not as a fundraising event, but as a celebration of our grantees.
This special evening brought together grantees and members of the legal community to connect, reflect, and celebrate the work that strengthens access to justice across South Carolina. We are proud to support these organizations and leaders as they engage with the broader legal community and advance their important work.
We extend our sincere thanks to Arrowhead Design Group for its sponsorship of Cocktails at Convention, and to everyone who joined us for a truly memorable evening.
View the full photo gallery here.
DuRant Distinguished Public Service Award
The Foundation was also pleased to recognize the recipient of the DuRant Distinguished Public Service Award during the Plenary Luncheon.
Bradish “Brad” J. Waring, a seasoned trial attorney with Butler Snow LLP, was recognized as the 2025 recipient of the DuRant Distinguished Public Service Award, based on his exceptional service to the legal profession and his longstanding commitment to the community. Mr. Waring was honored in the presence of his peers, underscoring the importance of public service and leadership within South Carolina’s legal community and beyond.
