Molly Talbot-Metz Receives Order of the Palmetto 

Molly Talbot-Metz, president and CEO of the Mary Black Foundation, has been honored with receiving the Order of the Palmetto Award. Talbot-Metz was honored with the award, recognized as the highest civilian honor in South Carolina, at the foundation’s annual Grantee Celebration on Thursday, November 30. The award was presented by Representative Max Hyde.

With a career spanning over two decades in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, Talbot-Metz’s influence and contributions have been pivotal in advancing local and statewide initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes. She has been serving the Spartanburg community for over 22 years since joining the foundation as its first program officer in 2001. She later served as the foundation’s vice president of programs before stepping into the role of president and CEO in 2018. 

Kim Stravolo, the former chief financial officer of Mary Black Foundation, who nominated Talbot-Metz for the award said, “We nominated Molly for this award because she has devoted her career to not only improving the lives of those residing in Spartanburg, but her leadership has had rippling effects across the state of SC.” 

Forest Alton, Paige Stephenson, Bill Barnet, Hope Blackley, Gregg Wade, Chris Story, and Laura Ringo contributed letters of support for the nomination. Molly Talbot-Metz holds a Master of Public Health degree from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Education from the State University of New York at Courtland. Recognized as the 2021 Foundation of the Year, the Mary Black Foundation’s achievements under the direction of Talbot-Metz have been instrumental in fostering community-centered collaboration. Her exceptional leadership was highlighted with the 2021 Truist Foundation Promise Award, underscoring her work with the Spartanburg Racial Collaborative. Talbot-Metz’s commitment to the community has been acknowledged through numerous other accolades including the 2018 Adolescent Health Initiative Award and the 2021 United Way Community Partner Award. 

The Order of the Palmetto Award serves as a testament to Talbot-Metz’s commitment to the betterment of Spartanburg County. Her bold leadership, dedication, and strategic vision have not only shaped the foundation’s trajectory but have also left a mark on the community, leaving a legacy of positive change.