Gary Pope, Jr., has been selected for the 2014 class of Leadership Columbia.  The 50-person class will spend 10 months together exploring issues and challenges facing Columbia, including economic development, education, crime, political systems, and leadership skills. Founded in 1973, Leadership Columbia was designed to enhance knowledge and engagement in the community while also helping develop leadership skills.

“Through my work in public finance, I have gained a broader perspective on both the potential and the challenges of cities and towns in South Carolina,” says Pope. “Columbia has so many unique attributes as a city and its own set of challenges. It’s a great place to live and work, and I’m looking forward to joining forces with others who are interested in helping Columbia grow as a thriving, successful city.”

Pope is a finance committee member of the Friends of Scouting, Indian Waters Council, and a member of the Columbia Museum of Art Contemporaries.  He received a BA in political science from The University of the South, a JD from the USC School of Law, and an International MBA from USC’s Darla Moore School of Business.