Gary Simrill '91, will join the board this summer, replacing the late William "Bill"
Cotty, a former state legislator. Rep. Simrill was chosen for his reputation for thoughtful leadership and collegiality
and his commitment to South Carolina, according to Karen Kedrowski, co-director of
the West Forum and dean of Winthrop University's College of Arts and Sciences. 
ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA - S.C. Rep. Gary Simrill, R-Rock Hill, and Winthrop University
alumnus, will join the Advisory Board of the John C. West Forum on Politics and Policy at Winthrop, offering his proven state leadership and extensive legislative experience.
Simrill '91, will join the board this summer, replacing the late William "Bill" Cotty, a former state legislator.
Rep. Simrill was chosen for his reputation for thoughtful leadership and collegiality
and his commitment to South Carolina, according to Karen Kedrowski, co-director of the West Forum and dean of Winthrop University's College of Arts
and Sciences. Simrill, a Rock Hill resident, has served in the S.C. House of Representatives
since 1993 and is the Majority Leader of the House.
The West Forum endeavors to train the next generation of political and civic leaders in South Carolina
through the sponsorship of programs, events, and activities that promote civic engagement,
focus on pressing issues of the day, and encourage individual involvement in community
affairs of all types. It is co-directed by Kedrowski and Katarina Moyon.
The Advisory Board is a bi-partisan group of elected officials and civic leaders who are committed to
the mission of the West Forum and meet annually to receive updates and provide counsel
to the co-directors. Additionally, advisory board members informally assist in planning,
identifying speakers, and making connections within the state as needed.
"We are honored that so distinguished a Winthrop alumnus as Rep. Gary Simrill is willing
to give of his time to help advance the West Forum," said Winthrop University President Dan Mahony. "No one understands the workings of state government better than Gary Simrill, and
his insights will help the West Forum cultivate and inspire future South Carolina
leaders."
Other members of the advisory board are: John C. "Jack" West, Jr., son of former governor John C. West, chair; Rachel Hodges, former South Carolina First Lady; Reggie Lloyd '89, attorney and former South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) director; and
Jim Harrison, attorney and former state legislator.
For more information, contact Kedrowski at kedrowskik@winthrop.edu or Moyon at moyonk@winthrop.edu.
