Charleston Sets Out A Welcome Map for International Business
Charleston Southern University announces the opening of a new center aimed at fostering connections between local residents, businesses and the international community. The center, Global Charleston, officially opened its doors following a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Hunter Center on campus on March 15.
Stephanie LeVan, executive director of the CSU Center for Global Education, holds the role of president at Global Charleston. The new center is envisaged as the global fluency arm of the One Region Roadmap.
LeVan shared her aspirations for the center, “My hope is that Global Charleston serves international residents and businesses well. As someone who has lived overseas for many years, I am aware of the challenges that may be faced. It is a privilege to now be able to extend that hospitality and kindness to others.”
Charleston Southern University points out that there is no other organization of its kind in the Charleston business ecosystem. Global Charleston’s main objective is to assist international residents who are looking to establish companies in the area in a variety of ways. This includes providing insights into complex relocation processes, offering an online directory, and producing learning opportunities.
LeVan addressed a crowd of global leaders and supporters at the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of global fluency. She says,“This center serves as a declaration to our global partners that the Charleston metro area welcomes everyone. Our mission at Charleston Southern and at Global Charleston is to strengthen the ties that bind us in our region and ensure the international community is served well with the information they need to thrive.”
LeVan’s journey in this realm commenced in 2016 when she began working with the Charleston Regional Development Alliance on their global fluency committee. After cooperating with others in the community and SB Friedman Development Advisers, she became a part of the One Region Advisory Committee.
The One Region Roadmap is a regional partnership representing the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester region. According to One Region, the alliance aims to boost the economy and generate opportunities for all its residents.
Ryan Wilcox, One Region managing director, commended the efforts of Charleston Southern University in launching Global Charleston. Wilcox said, “We applaud their efforts in strengthening the region’s capacity to welcome people from around the world. This initiative will quickly connect them to the community, resources, and support they need to begin a fulfilling and successful life here.”
Daniel Schlegel, vice president of operations and customer service for Kion North America, praised Global Charleston’s commitment to the community. He recalled his personal experience as an immigrant from Germany and the challenges he faced due to a lack of guidance.
Schlegel said, “If you come here for business, and you have other things to worry about, having a resource that can help you take care of things, is great. Having a place where you can talk to people who have experience and can guide you along, is invaluable.” Kion North America is a sponsor of Global Charleston.
According to the One Region Roadmap, the Charleston Metro region is home to more than 180 foreign-owned businesses and approximately 42,000 residents who are foreign born. One Region is a partnership between the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, the Charleston Metro Chamber, and the Charleston Regional Development Alliance.
