2025 Summer Conference Presenters, Breakout Session Speakers, Instructors and Board Members
Click on the speakers name to read their biography and what session(s) they are delivering.
George Baker
George Baker – Conway, SC
The Little Buzz: Discover If Beekeeping Is for You – Saturday, 10.45am
A tiny taste of the hive, just enough to see if it’s your thing.
George Baker has a successful career as an Senior Software Engineer, where he writes Android mobile banking applications. Wanting an outdoor creative outlet, he began gardening some years ago. Realizing the importance of bees in our environment, George also became interested in beekeeping and eventually received his first two hives in April 2024. Now, through hard work his small little garden has grown into a market garden called Three River Oaks Farm. His bees have also multiplied, as bees do, and he is looking forward to growing his apiary along with his farm.
He says he could not have been so successful without the mentors in his local bee club, Blackwater Beekeepers Association. It is through this club where he has met some lifelong friends and was asked to become a director in the club. These mentors also encouraged George to craft a short introductory peer reviewed beekeeping class for those who aren’t quite sure if beekeeping is for them. It has been very well received by everyone who has attended it. George enjoys helping others learn about bees and beekeeping and also sharing with them his love of these wonderful magical little creatures.
george@threeriveroaksfarm.com
He says he could not have been so successful without the mentors in his local bee club, Blackwater Beekeepers Association. It is through this club where he has met some lifelong friends and was asked to become a director in the club. These mentors also encouraged George to craft a short introductory peer reviewed beekeeping class for those who aren’t quite sure if beekeeping is for them. It has been very well received by everyone who has attended it. George enjoys helping others learn about bees and beekeeping and also sharing with them his love of these wonderful magical little creatures.
george@threeriveroaksfarm.com
Bob Binnie
Bob Binnie – Keynote Speaker. Blue Ridge Honey Co., Lakemont, GA
Queen Management – Friday, 10.45am
Toxic Chemistry in our Colonies – Saturday, 3.45pm
Bob Binnie began beekeeping in 1981 before the arrival of the dreaded pests of the present. He has managed bees for pollination, honey production and queen rearing, but his passion in recent years is education. Bob is well-known as a YouTube celebrity and authority with his common sense approach to beekeeping.
Bob, along with his wife Suzette, owns Blue Ridge Honey Co. in Lakemont, Georgia, operating 2000 colonies, along with a a sizeable honey packing operation. Voted “Beekeeper of The Year” by the Georgia Beekeepers Association in 2003, Bob has been involved in commercial beekeeping for nearly four decades. Blue Ridge Honey Co. offers wholesale & retail honey, pollen and beeswax products, as well as bees and queens.
www.blueridgehoneycompany.com
bobbinnie19@gmail.com
Bob, along with his wife Suzette, owns Blue Ridge Honey Co. in Lakemont, Georgia, operating 2000 colonies, along with a a sizeable honey packing operation. Voted “Beekeeper of The Year” by the Georgia Beekeepers Association in 2003, Bob has been involved in commercial beekeeping for nearly four decades. Blue Ridge Honey Co. offers wholesale & retail honey, pollen and beeswax products, as well as bees and queens.
www.blueridgehoneycompany.com
bobbinnie19@gmail.com
Sheryl Brousseau
Sheryl Brousseau – Senior Judge, American Honey Show Training Council (AHSTC), Master Beekeeper, President Ridge Beekeepers Assn.
Extraordinary Beeswax: Bee Inspired! – Thursday, 2pm
Notions, Potions & Lotions Workshop – Saturday, 1pm
Honey Show
Sheryl Brousseau, Senior Honey Judge, AHSTC, entered the field of Honey Show judging and competing in 2018, and has judged honey shows in SC, GA, NC, TN, and KY. Not only does she enjoy judging honey shows and teaching others how to prepare show entries, she is a top honey show competitor and a GBA multi-champion with numerous wins including best in show and sweepstakes awards.
Sheryl is a certified SC Master Beekeeper, and the club President of Ridge Beekeepers Association in
Edgefield County SC, where she enjoys speaking at meetings, and mentoring new beekeepers. Additionally, she is an expert in processing and preparing products of the hive, and the SC Honey regulations.
Sheryl is a certified SC Master Beekeeper, and the club President of Ridge Beekeepers Association in
Edgefield County SC, where she enjoys speaking at meetings, and mentoring new beekeepers. Additionally, she is an expert in processing and preparing products of the hive, and the SC Honey regulations.
Danny Cannon
Danny Cannon – SCBA Vendor & Sponsor Engagement, Lexington, SC
Danny Cannon has been keeping bees since 1998 and is the owner of Bee Trail Farm, an apiary located in Lexington, SC. Raising queens and selling local honey are his specialties. He is a past President of Mid-State Beekeepers Association and a past President of the SC Beekeepers Association. Danny enjoys serving as a mentor and advocate for the beekeeping community.
Brad Cavin
Brad Cavin – SC Chief Apiary Inspector
Hive Alert: South Carolina’s War on the Yellow-Legged Hornet
Stephen Bradley (Brad) Cavin began working for Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry (DPI) as a Plant Pest Regulatory Inspector in 2007. In 2013, Brad was appointed Chief Apiary Inspector for South Carolina. In 2020, DPI officially launched a full-time apiary inspection program in South Carolina. His responsibilities in this role include oversight of regulatory activities of the Clemson University Department of Plant Industry Apiary Inspection program in South Carolina.
Brad conducts random inspection of beekeepers/queen breeders and investigates calls from beekeepers concerned about possible pests and pathogens. He recommends establishment of protective or restrictive quarantine as required due to disease or deleterious exotic species and enforces the South Carolina bee laws and regulations. He educates the public by hosting discussions regarding honeybees and the laws that regulate the honeybee industry. Brad issues certificates of inspection for queen breeders and migratory beekeepers as well as certificates for exportation and importation commerce for colonies of honeybees.
With the detection of the Yellow-legged hornet (YLH) in 2023, Brad oversees the regulatory response in South Carolina to the threat that YLH has on honeybees, the beekeeping industry, and agriculture. This response includes budget management, trapping, outreach, identification, locating YLH nests, and nest removals
Brad conducts random inspection of beekeepers/queen breeders and investigates calls from beekeepers concerned about possible pests and pathogens. He recommends establishment of protective or restrictive quarantine as required due to disease or deleterious exotic species and enforces the South Carolina bee laws and regulations. He educates the public by hosting discussions regarding honeybees and the laws that regulate the honeybee industry. Brad issues certificates of inspection for queen breeders and migratory beekeepers as well as certificates for exportation and importation commerce for colonies of honeybees.
With the detection of the Yellow-legged hornet (YLH) in 2023, Brad oversees the regulatory response in South Carolina to the threat that YLH has on honeybees, the beekeeping industry, and agriculture. This response includes budget management, trapping, outreach, identification, locating YLH nests, and nest removals
Ed Coleman
Ed Coleman – Donalds, SC
Stressors of Honey Bees – Thursday, 8.30am
Ed, SCBA Master Beekeeper, started keeping bees in 2008 and then began raising queens in the upstate of South Carolina soon after. He manages over 150 hives in both Florida and South Carolina. Ed produces and sells queens, nucs, and local honey. He also frequently teaches beekeeping classes and speaks at local beekeeper clubs throughout the year.
Glenn Cook
Glenn Cook – Moncks Corner, SC
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Live Bee Yard Coordinator – Friday
Glenn Cook has been a beekeeper since 2018 and presently manages a small apiary for King Family Farms in addition to his own small apiary. Glenn enjoys spending time with “ his girls” and is constantly trying to improve his beekeeping practices.
Glenn is a native Charlestonian, having grown up on the then rural community Johns Island. He served in the US Naval Reserve as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman. Glenn is a Nationally Registered Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, and award winning Community Paramedic. He has over 35 years of prehospital, flight, and critical care experience. During that time Glenn has held management and education roles for both large 911 EMS services and hospital based transport teams.
Glenn has taught beekeeping topics at local clubs and presented at the 2023 SCBA Spring Conference.
Glenn is also a mentor for the SC Hives for Heroes, a charitable organization supporting military veterans and first responders with beekeeper training and mentorship.
Glenn Cook has been a beekeeper since 2018 and presently manages a small apiary for King Family Farms in addition to his own small apiary. Glenn enjoys spending time with “ his girls” and is constantly trying to improve his beekeeping practices.
Glenn is a native Charlestonian, having grown up on the then rural community Johns Island. He served in the US Naval Reserve as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman. Glenn is a Nationally Registered Paramedic, Critical Care Paramedic, and award winning Community Paramedic. He has over 35 years of prehospital, flight, and critical care experience. During that time Glenn has held management and education roles for both large 911 EMS services and hospital based transport teams.
Glenn has taught beekeeping topics at local clubs and presented at the 2023 SCBA Spring Conference.
Glenn is also a mentor for the SC Hives for Heroes, a charitable organization supporting military veterans and first responders with beekeeper training and mentorship.
Susan Crook
Susan Crook – Director, Master Beekeeper Program. Charleston, SC
How to Prepare for Master Level – Thursday, 9.30am
MBP Journeyman Review: Honey Bee Diseases and Pests – Thursday, 10.30am
MBP Testing – Thursday 1.00pm
Susan Crook is the Director of the SCBA Master Beekeeper Program, a Cornell University Master Beekeeper and the Apiculture Specialist at Boone Hall Plantation. She loves to talk about bees to anyone who will listen!
mbp@scstatebeekeepers.com
mbp@scstatebeekeepers.com
Brian Fahey
Brian Fahey – Charleston, SC
Natives – Thursday, 1.00pm
A native of Tybee Island, GA., Brian was drawn to Charleston by its luxurious river resort, The Citadel. He travelled a circuitous path that led to marrying his wife, Jennifer, having a brood of two, and a career as an archivist (an Indiana Jones of recorded information). Fearing some might mistake him for being affable, Brian first placed hives in his driveway in 2019 to keep bees in and people out. He’s a member of Charleston Area Beekeepers Association and an SCBA Journeyman with aspiration to be a Master Beekeeper. He’s a lifelong master of wit and sarcasm, devilishly handsome, and holistically humble.
Phillip Felkel
Phillip Felkel – President, Dorchester Beekeepers and Gardeners. Charleston, SC
Live Bee Yard Coordinator – Friday-Saturday
Phillip is a SC Certified beekeeper and a member of Lowcountry Beekeepers Association, York
County Beekeepers Association and President of Dorchester Beekeepers and Gardeners. He has
20 colonies in Blacksburg, Orangeburg and Ridgeville. An avid gardener, who has been keeping
bees since 2018, he enjoys building his own equipment and catching swarms to add to his
apiary.
County Beekeepers Association and President of Dorchester Beekeepers and Gardeners. He has
20 colonies in Blacksburg, Orangeburg and Ridgeville. An avid gardener, who has been keeping
bees since 2018, he enjoys building his own equipment and catching swarms to add to his
apiary.
Joann Gabryszak
Joann Gabryszak – Certified Honey Judge, American Honey Show Training Council (AHSTC). Traveler’s Rest, SC.
Honey Show
Joann is an upstate Journeyman level beekeeper who started keeping honeybees in 2014. In 2022 she became a Welsh Honey judge at Young Harris
She enjoys keeping busy as a bee by working her childhood gardens, and volunteering with Master gardeners in Indiana, and South Carolina.
She enjoys keeping busy as a bee by working her childhood gardens, and volunteering with Master gardeners in Indiana, and South Carolina.
Steve Genta
Steve Genta, Senior Judge, American Honey Show Training Council (AHSTC). Simpsonville, SC
Honey Show
Steve is a third-generation beekeeper and manages 20 colonies to help support his mead making
endeavors and supply his customers with honey and many other bee products from his home in
Simpsonville, SC.
He is South Carolinas first Master Beekeeper, a Cornell Master Beekeeper, a Senior Honey Judge, and is
the headmaster of the South Carolina Honey Judging Academy as well as an Executive Board member of
the American Honey Show Training Council.
Steve coordinates and judges the SCBA honey shows and is the senior judge for the SC State Fair honey
show. He has been teaching beginning beekeeping classes for over 20 years and mentors many new
beekeepers. Steve also gives beekeeping presentations, mead making classes and honey show
preparation programs to groups and clubs in several states. Steve is also an instructor for the American
Honey Show Training Council which teaches individuals how to judge honey and bee products across the
nation.
Steve is retired from the Greenville County School District, where he worked for 22 years in the tech
support dept.
endeavors and supply his customers with honey and many other bee products from his home in
Simpsonville, SC.
He is South Carolinas first Master Beekeeper, a Cornell Master Beekeeper, a Senior Honey Judge, and is
the headmaster of the South Carolina Honey Judging Academy as well as an Executive Board member of
the American Honey Show Training Council.
Steve coordinates and judges the SCBA honey shows and is the senior judge for the SC State Fair honey
show. He has been teaching beginning beekeeping classes for over 20 years and mentors many new
beekeepers. Steve also gives beekeeping presentations, mead making classes and honey show
preparation programs to groups and clubs in several states. Steve is also an instructor for the American
Honey Show Training Council which teaches individuals how to judge honey and bee products across the
nation.
Steve is retired from the Greenville County School District, where he worked for 22 years in the tech
support dept.
Ray Hewitt
Ray Hewitt – Midstate Beekeepers Association, Chapin, SC
The Sweet History of Beekeeping: From Caves to Colonies – Thursday, 2pm
Mite Wars: A Beekeepers Guide to Victory – Friday 2.00pm
Ray began his lifelong beekeeping journey as a child, learning at his father’s side in Vermont on their family’s Honey Top Farm in the 1970s. After re-establishing his apiary in the South and encountering new challenges, Ray committed to a comprehensive beekeeping education, transforming setbacks into success. He now leads Honey Top Bees in Chapin, SC, a business dedicated to guiding new beekeepers “on the right side of the journey” through classes, mentoring, and his YouTube channel, alongside providing high-quality nucs and honey.
As President of the SC Midstate Beekeepers Association and an Advanced Certified Master Beekeeper through the University of Florida, Ray is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and educator, passionately sharing the art and science of beekeeping. With over thirty years as a pastor and experience as a small business owner, Ray brings a unique blend of dedication, mentorship, and practical wisdom to his beekeeping classes, personal mentoring, and speaking engagements.
www.honeytopbees.com
www.youtube.com/@honeytopbees
As President of the SC Midstate Beekeepers Association and an Advanced Certified Master Beekeeper through the University of Florida, Ray is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and educator, passionately sharing the art and science of beekeeping. With over thirty years as a pastor and experience as a small business owner, Ray brings a unique blend of dedication, mentorship, and practical wisdom to his beekeeping classes, personal mentoring, and speaking engagements.
www.honeytopbees.com
www.youtube.com/@honeytopbees
Mike Hood
Dr. Mike Hood – Professor Emeritus, Clemson University
South Carolina Beekeeping History – Thursday, 3.30pm
Wm. Michael Hood, PhD
Mike is Professor Emeritus of Entomology, Emeritus College, Clemson University, SC, where he retired in 2013. He received his BS (Forestry – 1973), MS (Entomology – 1977) at Clemson University and his PhD (Entomology – 1986) at the University of Georgia. He began work at Clemson University in 1988 with a split appointment as Extension Honey Bee Specialist in the College of Agriculture and as State Apiarist in the Department of Plant Industry in the Division of Regulatory Services. In 1995, he began duties as State Apiculturist in the Department of Entomology where he taught undergraduate apiculture, served as the State Extension Honey Bee Specialist and conducted honey bee research specializing in honey bee integrated pest management (IPM) including research on honey bee tracheal mites, varroa mites, wax moths, and small hive beetles.
His research for the last 15 years at the university focused primarily on small hive beetle management beginning in 1998 on Wadmalaw Island, Charleston County, where he began development of a small hive beetle trap, later known as the “Hood Beetle Trap.”
Mike served as Executive Secretary of SCBA for 25 years before retiring. He was instrumental in helping fund the SC Master Beekeeper Program and served as an instructor for many years.
Since retiring in 2013, he has published two books, one titled “The Small Hive Beetle, Aethina tumida” which gives the beekeeper fundamental and important information about small hive beetle management. The other book titled, “Bees and Man” is a compilation of 70 entertaining short stories about the interactions of bees and man.
Mike is also a retired member of the US Army Reserves serving two years on active duty and serving 23 more years in the active reserves. He retired from service at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2011.
His hobbies in retirement include fishing, hunting, golf, travel and spending more time with his wife and 11 grandchildren.
Mike is Professor Emeritus of Entomology, Emeritus College, Clemson University, SC, where he retired in 2013. He received his BS (Forestry – 1973), MS (Entomology – 1977) at Clemson University and his PhD (Entomology – 1986) at the University of Georgia. He began work at Clemson University in 1988 with a split appointment as Extension Honey Bee Specialist in the College of Agriculture and as State Apiarist in the Department of Plant Industry in the Division of Regulatory Services. In 1995, he began duties as State Apiculturist in the Department of Entomology where he taught undergraduate apiculture, served as the State Extension Honey Bee Specialist and conducted honey bee research specializing in honey bee integrated pest management (IPM) including research on honey bee tracheal mites, varroa mites, wax moths, and small hive beetles.
His research for the last 15 years at the university focused primarily on small hive beetle management beginning in 1998 on Wadmalaw Island, Charleston County, where he began development of a small hive beetle trap, later known as the “Hood Beetle Trap.”
Mike served as Executive Secretary of SCBA for 25 years before retiring. He was instrumental in helping fund the SC Master Beekeeper Program and served as an instructor for many years.
Since retiring in 2013, he has published two books, one titled “The Small Hive Beetle, Aethina tumida” which gives the beekeeper fundamental and important information about small hive beetle management. The other book titled, “Bees and Man” is a compilation of 70 entertaining short stories about the interactions of bees and man.
Mike is also a retired member of the US Army Reserves serving two years on active duty and serving 23 more years in the active reserves. He retired from service at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2011.
His hobbies in retirement include fishing, hunting, golf, travel and spending more time with his wife and 11 grandchildren.
Jeff Horchoff (“Mr Ed”)
Jeff Horchoff (“Mr Ed”) – Keynote Speaker. Abbey Honey Operation, LA
Beekeeper for the Monks at St. Joseph’s – Thursday, 4.30pm
Making Splits with a Double Screened Bottom Board – Friday, 8.30am
The Many Hats of a Beekeeper – Saturday, 1.00pm
As a beekeeper for over 40 years, Ed’s journey, like all beekeepers, has had many peaks and valleys, but the one consistent aspect throughout both the good times and not so good times, is that bees never ceased to amaze him. It is this wonder of the bees that continues drawing him along the road he is travelling with them, learning about himself and the bees along the way.
Jeff now finds himself the lone beekeeper/bee wrangler for a group of Benedictine monks at St. Joseph Abbey, tending their flock of 150 or so bee hives while keeping supplied the stock of honey their Gift Shop form the efforts of their bees.
He says “What a blessing it is to been placed here by God to do His work.”
https://www.youtube.com/@JeffHorchoff
Jeff now finds himself the lone beekeeper/bee wrangler for a group of Benedictine monks at St. Joseph Abbey, tending their flock of 150 or so bee hives while keeping supplied the stock of honey their Gift Shop form the efforts of their bees.
He says “What a blessing it is to been placed here by God to do His work.”
https://www.youtube.com/@JeffHorchoff
Allen Johnson
Allen Johnson – Johnson’s Bees & Supplies. Williston, SC.
Beekeeping Equipment – Friday 3.00pm
Allen Johnson was a certified Recreation Therapist at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center (VAMC) in Augusta, GA for over 30 years, treating veterans dealing with mental health difficulties primarily diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
He began beekeeping in 2006 to improve the yields of his garden. Several years later, Allen began producing queens and nucs to sell.
In 2012, the opportunity to start a farm and garden retail store allowed the Johnson’s to start selling beekeeping equipment and supplies. In 2017, the beekeeping operation was separated from the farm and garden store and Johnson’s Bees and Supplies was born.
Retirement in 2021 allowed Allen to focus all of his attention on beekeeping while continuing to work with the Charlie Norwood VAMC as a community partner to introduce veterans to all of the wonders of beekeeping.
He began beekeeping in 2006 to improve the yields of his garden. Several years later, Allen began producing queens and nucs to sell.
In 2012, the opportunity to start a farm and garden retail store allowed the Johnson’s to start selling beekeeping equipment and supplies. In 2017, the beekeeping operation was separated from the farm and garden store and Johnson’s Bees and Supplies was born.
Retirement in 2021 allowed Allen to focus all of his attention on beekeeping while continuing to work with the Charlie Norwood VAMC as a community partner to introduce veterans to all of the wonders of beekeeping.
Susan Marie Jones
Susan Marie Jones – Hodges, SC
Youth Education Program – Saturday
Susan Marie is a retired educator who has a passion for teaching the next generation about honey bees. Susan began keeping bees in 2004 on her family’s farm in Southern Greenville County. She soon became an active leader in the Piedmont Beekeeper’s Association teaching a number of beginning beekeeping classes each year under the mentorship of commercial beekeeper Tim Dover. In 2016, Susan moved to Lake Keowee where she became active in the Oconee County Beekeepers Association, managed an observation hive for Keowee Elementary School, and you guessed it, taught beginning beekeeping. In 2017, Susan was appointed the Director of the SC Master Beekeeper Program where she developed programs and organized beekeeping education across the state. In early 2021, Susan earned her Master Beekeeper certification then moved with husband Carl to what they hope will be their “forever home” near Hodges, SC and became involved with the Lakeland Beekeepers.
Susan created and manages two bee-focused businesses: her honey bees and bee products as Susan Marie’s Bees and a bee-themed e-commerce business, Keowee Bee. From 2022-2024 Susan served as the President of the South Carolina Beekeepers Association – the first woman to do so in the organization’s 49-year history. This year brings a fresh challenge as Susan accepted the position of Apiculture Specialist at the SC Governor’s School of Agriculture. Susan is passionate about honey bees, but she thrives in being able to share her beekeeping experience with others – especially young people.
Susan created and manages two bee-focused businesses: her honey bees and bee products as Susan Marie’s Bees and a bee-themed e-commerce business, Keowee Bee. From 2022-2024 Susan served as the President of the South Carolina Beekeepers Association – the first woman to do so in the organization’s 49-year history. This year brings a fresh challenge as Susan accepted the position of Apiculture Specialist at the SC Governor’s School of Agriculture. Susan is passionate about honey bees, but she thrives in being able to share her beekeeping experience with others – especially young people.
Brett Kahley
Brett Kahley – SCBA Board of Directors, Greenville SC
Brett Kahley is a certified beekeeper working towards his journeyman. He is an active SCBA board member. Most of the time he manages his own apiary; Hidden Spring Bee Farm, which produces and sells honey and other various products. He also manages other apiaries in select locations in Greenville county. Brett enjoys mentoring other beekeepers and advocating for beekeeping in the community.
Marika Kary
Marika Kary – Charleston, SC
MBP Certified Review: Seasonal Management – Thursday, 9.30am
Marika is a Realtor by day and beekeeper at every other opportunity!
Her Beekeeping Origin Story began when she went to the Coastal Carolina Fair, rode ALL the rides with her 15 year old niece and was sick to her stomach. To protect her cool aunt credentials, she said “hey let’s go check out the agricultural building” (vs. throwing up in public in front of her). They wandered up to Lowcountry Beekeepers and their observation hive and spent 30 minutes talking to Darrel about bees. He told her to join them at the upcoming class… The rest is history!
Her Beekeeping Origin Story began when she went to the Coastal Carolina Fair, rode ALL the rides with her 15 year old niece and was sick to her stomach. To protect her cool aunt credentials, she said “hey let’s go check out the agricultural building” (vs. throwing up in public in front of her). They wandered up to Lowcountry Beekeepers and their observation hive and spent 30 minutes talking to Darrel about bees. He told her to join them at the upcoming class… The rest is history!
Anne Marie Katalenas
Anne Marie Katalenas – SCBA Vice President
MBP Certified Review: Equipment – Thursday, 8.30am
Discussion: Successful Bee Clubs of the Future – Saturday, 2.30pm
A New Jersey native turned Southern local after more than 20 years, Anne Marie (AMK to her friends) now calls South Carolina home. She works in HR—specializing in operations and people analytics—at the YMCA of Greater Charlotte. She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from UNC Charlotte and a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University.
Outside of work and the hive, she’s a single mom of 1 adult son (Marcus), a devoted rescue dog mom (to four!), enthusiastic gardener, passionate foodie, and the ever-determined renovator of her 125-year-old Victorian home. Now three years into beekeeping, she’s especially passionate about youth education, community outreach, and pollinator advocacy. She believes bee clubs serve as more than just educational hubs—they’re vital communities and support systems for beekeepers at every level.
Outside of work and the hive, she’s a single mom of 1 adult son (Marcus), a devoted rescue dog mom (to four!), enthusiastic gardener, passionate foodie, and the ever-determined renovator of her 125-year-old Victorian home. Now three years into beekeeping, she’s especially passionate about youth education, community outreach, and pollinator advocacy. She believes bee clubs serve as more than just educational hubs—they’re vital communities and support systems for beekeepers at every level.
Tim Keown
Dr. Tim Keown – President, SC Governor’s School for Agriculture at John de la Howe
Welcome and Door Prizes – Saturday
Dr. Tim Keown developed a passion for South Carolina history and enjoyed teaching, even as a high school student. Dr. Keown received a B.S. and Master’s degree in Agricultural Education from Clemson University. He also completed a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership. Dr. Keown began his teaching career at Creek Bridge High School in Marion, SC He then taught Agricultural Education at Crescent High School in Iva, SC. After a successful teaching career, Dr Keown took up service as the Associate State Director of Agricultural Education at Clemson University where he remained for five years. In addition to this, he served as the advisor to two State FFA Officers and two National Young Farmer Presidents. Today, Dr. Keown serves as the President of the South Carolina Governor’s School for Agriculture at John de la Howe.
https://www.delahowe.sc.gov/
https://www.delahowe.sc.gov/
David MacFawn
David MacFawn – Lexington, SC
N
Beekeeping Through the Decades – Thursday, 1.00pm
Honey Pollen Study Results – Friday, 2.00pm
DAVID MACFAWN is a North Carolina Master Craftsman Beekeeper (October 16, 1997), Eastern Apicultural Society Master Beekeeper (2019), Co-Founded the South Carolina Master Beekeeping Program, awarded 1996 and 2020 South Carolina Beekeeper of the Year, and published over 60 articles in the American
Bee Journal, Bee Culture, and Beekeeping: The First Three Years.
David is a 2021 CIPA EVVY TM Awards Book Second Place Competition Winner and has published
four books and twenty YouTube videos. He was a consultant to Bee Downtown, an urban agricultural and leadership development organization. Here David worked with their leadership team to create a biomimicry analysis for honeybees to create a new Six Domain Leadership Model which draws correlations between human leadership lessons learned in successful organizational management and
leadership from studying the honeybee as a super social species. David has a BS in Electrical Engineering and a master’s in business administration with concentrations in Finance and Operations Research. He was in the computer business for over 30 years.
Honey Pollen Study Results – Friday, 2.00pm
DAVID MACFAWN is a North Carolina Master Craftsman Beekeeper (October 16, 1997), Eastern Apicultural Society Master Beekeeper (2019), Co-Founded the South Carolina Master Beekeeping Program, awarded 1996 and 2020 South Carolina Beekeeper of the Year, and published over 60 articles in the American
Bee Journal, Bee Culture, and Beekeeping: The First Three Years.
David is a 2021 CIPA EVVY TM Awards Book Second Place Competition Winner and has published
four books and twenty YouTube videos. He was a consultant to Bee Downtown, an urban agricultural and leadership development organization. Here David worked with their leadership team to create a biomimicry analysis for honeybees to create a new Six Domain Leadership Model which draws correlations between human leadership lessons learned in successful organizational management and
leadership from studying the honeybee as a super social species. David has a BS in Electrical Engineering and a master’s in business administration with concentrations in Finance and Operations Research. He was in the computer business for over 30 years.
Anne Nidiffer
Anne Nidiffer – Marketing Specialist, SC Department of Agriculture and Executive Director, SC Specialty Crop Growers Association & SC Farmers Market Association
N
Dept of Ag Overview: What a Beekeeper Needs to Know – Friday, 3.00pm
Anne Nidiffer is a dedicated advocate for local agriculture and community-centered food systems. A proud South Carolinian and Clemson University graduate, she serves as the Program Coordinator for the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, overseeing both the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the Farm to School Program. In addition, Anne is the Executive Director of the South Carolina Specialty Crop Growers Association and the South Carolina Farmers Market Association.
Anne’s work is driven by her passion for local procurement, nutrition access, and supporting the state’s growers. She brings a wealth of experience in connecting agricultural programs to the communities they serve.
At the conference, Anne will share insights on how the Department of Agriculture’s initiatives can benefit you, your organization, and your community.
Anne Nidiffer is a dedicated advocate for local agriculture and community-centered food systems. A proud South Carolinian and Clemson University graduate, she serves as the Program Coordinator for the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, overseeing both the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the Farm to School Program. In addition, Anne is the Executive Director of the South Carolina Specialty Crop Growers Association and the South Carolina Farmers Market Association.
Anne’s work is driven by her passion for local procurement, nutrition access, and supporting the state’s growers. She brings a wealth of experience in connecting agricultural programs to the communities they serve.
At the conference, Anne will share insights on how the Department of Agriculture’s initiatives can benefit you, your organization, and your community.
Dee Olekas
Dee Olekas – Apiculture Assistant, Clemson Apiculture & Pollinator Program. Anderson, SC
MBP Journeyman Review: Honey Bee Anatomy & Physiology – Thursday, 9.30am
Dee has been beekeeping for 8 years and manages 50 colonies in Anderson, SC. She finds that each year is more fascinating and addictive than the last. Dee is drawn to the complex and amazing science of honey bees. Understanding their anatomy, how the organs function and the role that pheromones play helps her be a better beekeeper.
Dee is the Apiculture Assistant for Clemson Extension’s Apiculture and Pollinator Program, where she evaluates post Hurricane Helene SC samples for Vairimorpha loads. This is where Dee’s passions for bees and science come together to allow her to help the honey bee and the beekeeping community.
Dee is the Apiculture Assistant for Clemson Extension’s Apiculture and Pollinator Program, where she evaluates post Hurricane Helene SC samples for Vairimorpha loads. This is where Dee’s passions for bees and science come together to allow her to help the honey bee and the beekeeping community.
Tony Olekas
Tony Olekas – Anderson, SC
MBP Journeyman Review: Honey Bee Nutrition – Thursday, 8.30am
Tony Olekas is a Journeyman working toward his Masters and is an active Board member of Anderson County Beekeepers Association (ACBA). Most of the time he works as a beekeeper in his own apiary and oversees hives at Rocky River Nature Preserve (RRNP) part of Anderson University. He enjoys helping new beekeepers and club members learn how to seasonally manage their colonies. He will be discussing the symbiotic relationship between bees and flowers, the nectar and pollen they forage and how nutrition impacts the honey bee and the colony in which it lives.
Ben Powell
Ben Powell – Extension Associate, Apiculture and Pollinator Program, Clemson University
What Constitutes a Great Research Grant Proposal? – Friday, 9.45am
Beekeeping Through the Glass for Kids – Saturday, 9.45am
Close, Closer, Closest – Saturday, 10.45am
Beekeeping Through the Glass: Mite Wash – Saturday, 2.30pm
Ben Powell is the Apiculture and Pollinator Program Coordinator at Clemson University. For as long as I can remember I have been fascinated by the natural world and the interactions of its inhabitants, especially the smaller majority (insects and other invertebrates).
I believe that conservation and wise use of natural resources is essential to preserving ecosystem services, especially in developing communities, and the public has a vested interest in protecting pollinators and other invertebrates for the critical roles they play in maintaining agriculture and ecosystems.
As the Apiculture and Pollinator Program coordinator, my primary goal is to provide educational resources for South Carolina’s beekeepers and expand appreciation for all insects and invertebrates, especially those that pollinate South Carolina’s farms and forests.
I focus my education and outreach programs on two areas: 1) advancing apiculture and beekeeping and 2) improving public awareness about the importance of pollinators and invertebrate biodiversity. Clemson Apiculture and Pollinator Program extension activities include the Clemson Apiculture and Pollinator Program website and Facebook page, the bimonthly newsletter (CAPPingg), advanced trainings for beekeepers, pesticide applicators, and the general public, pollinator habitat demonstration plots, and teaching apiaries.
I believe that conservation and wise use of natural resources is essential to preserving ecosystem services, especially in developing communities, and the public has a vested interest in protecting pollinators and other invertebrates for the critical roles they play in maintaining agriculture and ecosystems.
As the Apiculture and Pollinator Program coordinator, my primary goal is to provide educational resources for South Carolina’s beekeepers and expand appreciation for all insects and invertebrates, especially those that pollinate South Carolina’s farms and forests.
I focus my education and outreach programs on two areas: 1) advancing apiculture and beekeeping and 2) improving public awareness about the importance of pollinators and invertebrate biodiversity. Clemson Apiculture and Pollinator Program extension activities include the Clemson Apiculture and Pollinator Program website and Facebook page, the bimonthly newsletter (CAPPingg), advanced trainings for beekeepers, pesticide applicators, and the general public, pollinator habitat demonstration plots, and teaching apiaries.
Chelsey Reed
Chelsey Reed – Apiculture and Pollinator Specialist, Clemson
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Tips for Working with Your Local Vector Control (Richard Co. Vector Control) – Friday, 9.45am
Chelsey received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania in 2013 and is currently working toward a Master’s degree in Entomology through the University of Florida. She’s been with Richland County Vector Control for six years and stepped into the role of supervisor in 2022. Chelsey also serves as the president of the South Carolina Mosquito Control Association. She’s excited to attend the conference and learn more about the industry and eager to connect with beekeepers from around the state!
Chelsey received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mansfield University of Pennsylvania in 2013 and is currently working toward a Master’s degree in Entomology through the University of Florida. She’s been with Richland County Vector Control for six years and stepped into the role of supervisor in 2022. Chelsey also serves as the president of the South Carolina Mosquito Control Association. She’s excited to attend the conference and learn more about the industry and eager to connect with beekeepers from around the state!
Pam Robinson
Pam Robinson – Our Legal Eagle
Ask a Lawyer Beekeeper – Friday, 2.00pm
The Buzz About Pollinators – Saturday, 2.30pm
Pamela DeFanti Robinson, J.D., retired as the Director of the USC School of Law Pro Bono Program after 34 years directing the nationally recognized, academic-based volunteer program integral to the professional development of law students.
She received a BA from Clemson University and a JD from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Prior to law school, Pam was a first-grade teacher and a children’s librarian.
Ms. Robinson is an active member of the SC Bar, the Children’s Justice Act Task Force, the SC and Mid-state Beekeepers Association, and the Richland County Master Gardener Association. Pam is a former chair and longtime member of the Clemson University Humanities Advancement Board.
Pam has received numerous awards for her public service effort. In 2013 she was honored at a Points of Light Foundation Celebration at the White House and in 2016 she was named the SC Lawyer of the Year by Lawyers Weekly. She was named the 2025 Volunteer of the Year by the Richland County Master Gardeners Association.
During the COVID shutdown, Pam embraced beekeeping as a hobby. In 2021 she started with one hive with disastrous results, but things have improved ever since. Pam credits the Midstate Beekeepers Association Introduction to Beekeeping class and the mentorship of members. As she settled into retirement Pam continues to expand her personal knowledge of beekeeping and now pairs it with gardening skills attained as a 2023 Master Gardener. Sharing her knowledge of beekeeping and gardening has resulted in numerous, well-received presentations; resulting in her now serving as the Outreach Coordinator for Mid-State.
Session Summaries:
Ask a Lawyer Beekeeper – An information session featuring lawyers who keep bees. Using hypotheticals the panel will discuss the law involved as well as possible mitigation to prevent harm. Questions are welcomed.
The Buzz About Pollinators – Who are they? How does it work and why are they so important
Pollinators are directly or indirectly responsible for one out of every three bites of food we take. This workshop will focus on the basic principles that can be replicated by anyone to support pollinators (especially honeybees) in our gardens and our world.
She received a BA from Clemson University and a JD from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Prior to law school, Pam was a first-grade teacher and a children’s librarian.
Ms. Robinson is an active member of the SC Bar, the Children’s Justice Act Task Force, the SC and Mid-state Beekeepers Association, and the Richland County Master Gardener Association. Pam is a former chair and longtime member of the Clemson University Humanities Advancement Board.
Pam has received numerous awards for her public service effort. In 2013 she was honored at a Points of Light Foundation Celebration at the White House and in 2016 she was named the SC Lawyer of the Year by Lawyers Weekly. She was named the 2025 Volunteer of the Year by the Richland County Master Gardeners Association.
During the COVID shutdown, Pam embraced beekeeping as a hobby. In 2021 she started with one hive with disastrous results, but things have improved ever since. Pam credits the Midstate Beekeepers Association Introduction to Beekeeping class and the mentorship of members. As she settled into retirement Pam continues to expand her personal knowledge of beekeeping and now pairs it with gardening skills attained as a 2023 Master Gardener. Sharing her knowledge of beekeeping and gardening has resulted in numerous, well-received presentations; resulting in her now serving as the Outreach Coordinator for Mid-State.
Session Summaries:
Ask a Lawyer Beekeeper – An information session featuring lawyers who keep bees. Using hypotheticals the panel will discuss the law involved as well as possible mitigation to prevent harm. Questions are welcomed.
The Buzz About Pollinators – Who are they? How does it work and why are they so important
Pollinators are directly or indirectly responsible for one out of every three bites of food we take. This workshop will focus on the basic principles that can be replicated by anyone to support pollinators (especially honeybees) in our gardens and our world.
Nancy Simpson
Nancy Simpson – South Carolina EAS Director, Charleston, SC
MBP Certified Review: Products of the Hive – Thursday, 10.30am
Dr. Nancy Simpson is a retired psychology instructor (Trident Technical College) and a practicing clinical psychologist. She is also a certified Honey Judge with the American Honey Show Training Council (AHSTC). She started beekeeping in 2012 when she tagged along with a friend to attend a beginner beekeeping class in Charleston. The science, art and magic of the hive has captivated her ever since.
Nancy has many passions; she is on staff at Middleton Place as the textile craft interpreter. She spins, weaves and tells tales to the guests. She and her husband reside on NannyBees Farm in Ravenel, SC where she milks her goats to make cheese and has managed to keep bees alive for over ten years. She truly lives in “The Land of Milk and Honey.”
Nancy has many passions; she is on staff at Middleton Place as the textile craft interpreter. She spins, weaves and tells tales to the guests. She and her husband reside on NannyBees Farm in Ravenel, SC where she milks her goats to make cheese and has managed to keep bees alive for over ten years. She truly lives in “The Land of Milk and Honey.”
Jim Strohm
Jim Strohm – SCBA President, Charleston, SC
Our President, Jim is originally from the Midwest and is retired from both the US Navy and the SC State Ports Authority where he held the post of Maintenance Supervisor. He is a Journeyman beekeeper and has been beekeeping in the Lowcountry for over ten years, currently maintaining 6 hives for pollination at the Clemson University Coastal Research and Education Center in Charleston. As the President of the Charleston Community Bee Gardens Jim oversees beekeepers who keep around 40 hives at the same Clemson site.
Jim teaches several, well attended Beginner Beekeeping classes each year at the Dorchester County Career and Technology Center. He also regularly educates school groups in the tri-county area about honeybees and the importance of pollinators to our food supply. Additionally, he presents at various festivals, conferences and seminars in several states. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and encouraging new beekeepers.
With the support of his marketing team Jim is developing “Hiveside Chats with Jim” featured on the Bee Gardens YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@charlestoncommunitybeegardens
Jim teaches several, well attended Beginner Beekeeping classes each year at the Dorchester County Career and Technology Center. He also regularly educates school groups in the tri-county area about honeybees and the importance of pollinators to our food supply. Additionally, he presents at various festivals, conferences and seminars in several states. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and encouraging new beekeepers.
With the support of his marketing team Jim is developing “Hiveside Chats with Jim” featured on the Bee Gardens YouTube channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@charlestoncommunitybeegardens
David Tarpy
Dr. David Tarpy – Professor & Extension Apiculturist, NC State University. Keynote Speaker
Breakout Session Speaker: Research Grant Report – Friday – UPDATE
The Benefits of Genetic Diversity Within Your Hives – Thursday 10.30am
8 Important Milestones in Beekeeping – Friday, 4.00pm
The Full Context of the Bee Crisis – Saturday, 9.45am
David Tarpy is a Professor of Applied Ecology and the Extension Apiculturist at NC State University. His research focusses on the biology and behavior of honey bee queens – using techniques including field manipulations, behavioral observatio, instrumental insemination and, molecular genetics – in order to better improve the overall health of queens and their colonies.
drtarpy@ncsu.edu
8 Important Milestones in Beekeeping – Friday, 4.00pm
The Full Context of the Bee Crisis – Saturday, 9.45am
David Tarpy is a Professor of Applied Ecology and the Extension Apiculturist at NC State University. His research focusses on the biology and behavior of honey bee queens – using techniques including field manipulations, behavioral observatio, instrumental insemination and, molecular genetics – in order to better improve the overall health of queens and their colonies.
drtarpy@ncsu.edu
Jill Van Horn
Jill Van Horn – Midstate Beekeepers Association and SCBA Summer Conference Chair
My husband Brett and I started attending Midstate Beekeepers Association meetings in October 2018. We took the beginner beekeeping class the following January and bought two bee packages that March. Six months later, Danny Cannon roped me into being club secretary; I am currently serving my 3rd 2-year term in the position. I enjoy connecting with others who share the meaningful cause of “saving the bees” and find purpose in contributing to something larger than myself.