SAM Welcomes Three Esteemed Leaders to Board of Directors

Spartanburg, SC – Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM) is proud to announce the appointment of three distinguished leaders to its Board of Directors: retired S.C. Supreme Court Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty, CONTEC co-founder and executive chairman Jack McBride, and Milliken senior director and community advocate Betsy Neely Sikma.

Their collective expertise and dedication to community advancement will strengthen SAM's mission to improve educational outcomes and advance economic mobility for students and families across Spartanburg County.

The Honorable Don Beatty brings a lifetime of public service and legal excellence to SAM’s board. A Spartanburg native, Chief Justice Beatty retired from the South Carolina Supreme Court after a celebrated judicial career. His leadership, advocacy for equitable opportunities, and deep understanding of systemic challenges will provide invaluable guidance as SAM continues its work to address barriers to academic and life success.

Jack McBride, co-founder and executive chairman of CONTEC, Inc., has been a transformative leader in the global manufacturing and technology sectors. McBride’s strategic vision and business acumen will help SAM scale its initiatives and partnerships to achieve long-term, sustainable progress. Jack first became involved with early childhood education during his tenure on the Mary Black Foundation Board. Jack currently serves on the Board of the South Carolina First Steps and previously served on the Board for ReadyNation, business executives building a skilled workforce by promoting solutions that prepare children to succeed.

Betsy Neely Sikma is a well-respected leader with a proven track record in nonprofit strategy, community service, and systems-building. The senior director, brand and communications for Milliken & Company, Sikma leads a team of professionals for internal, external, executive, and crisis communications and the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation, people experience, and corporate events. Sikma’s commitment to Spartanburg and her philanthropic and communications experience will be invaluable to the Board of Directors.

SAM Chief Executive Officer Dr. Russell W. Booker expressed enthusiasm for the appointments: “We are honored to welcome Justice Beatty, Jack McBride, and Betsy Neely Sikma to our board. Their leadership, experience, and passion for Spartanburg will propel SAM’s mission forward as we work together to achieve transformational outcomes for every child in our community.”

SAM also announces the 2025 Officers for its Board of Directors: Chair Phil Feisal, Vice Chair Paige Stephenson, Secretary Dr. Kira Reaves, and Treasurer Cole Alverson.

Reflecting on the contributions of the new board members, Phil Feisal shared, “Justice Beatty, Betsy Neely Sikma, and Jack McBride are exceptional professionals whose work has already made a substantial impact on our community. Their insights and dedication will be pivotal as we strive to achieve our Movement 2030 goals.”

This transition also marks the conclusion of Bill Barnet’s term on the SAM Board of Directors. A founding director of the board and dedicated advocate for Spartanburg Academic Movement, Barnet has served on the board since 2013. His leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in shaping SAM’s mission and achievements. Barnet will continue his service to the organization in the role of Board Emeritus, offering his valuable insights and experience in an advisory capacity.

As part of Spartanburg Academic Movement’s commitment to Movement 2030 goals, these new board members will play a critical role in guiding SAM’s strategic priorities, fostering collaboration, and ensuring measurable progress for Spartanburg’s students and families.

Honorable Donald W. Beatty

Jack McBride

Betsy Neely Sikma

Bill Barnet