Exciting News for Laurens: Bryan Gresham Takes on Key Role in LCSD 55
Laurens County is buzzing with excitement as the Laurens County School District 55 (LCSD 55) welcomes a familiar face back to the community. Bryan P. Gresham has recently been named the Director of Procurement and Compliance for the district, and he’s ready to hit the ground running!
A Return to Roots
For those who may not know, Bryan Gresham isn’t just an expert in procurement; he’s also a local guy! Born and raised in Kinards and Whitmire, Gresham feels right at home stepping into this new role. “Laurens has always been like a second home to me,” he said, reflecting on his ties to the area. “I want to thank Dr. Jody Penland, Dr. Rhett Harris, Mr. Jim Lollis, and our school board for this amazing opportunity to serve this great district and be a part of this amazing district family, and community. I am proud to be a part of Raider Nation.”
What Does the Director of Procurement and Compliance Do?
So, what will Gresham be up to in his new position? Basically, he will oversee all district purchasing, manage assets, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws. In other words, he’ll be the go-to person for making sure that everything is in line with the set rules and regulations. This role is vital as it helps the district optimize its funding and maintain high standards in procurement processes.
Gresham’s responsibilities will also include contract management and implementing internal audit controls. Working closely with district administration, he will help navigate the complexities of public procurement which is especially important now as schools continue to adapt to changing needs and budgets.
A Strong Background in Public Finance
With over 17 years of experience in public finance—and 10 of those years specifically in public education procurement—Gresham knows the ropes. He started his career as the Deputy Treasurer of Newberry County, gaining valuable insights into managing financial operations before transitioning to education.
His longest tenure was with The School District of Newberry County, where he served as the Procurement Coordinator for a noteworthy seven years. Before joining LCSD 55, he was the Director of Procurement Services at Lexington County School District Two, where he honed his skills further in a school district setting.
What His Colleagues Say
Jim Lollis, the Chief Financial Officer at LCSD 55, expressed his enthusiasm about Gresham joining the team. “What a blessing it is to have Mr. Bryan Gresham in our district,” he said. “His experience will help us in navigating the complex environment of public procurement. He will help us consolidate our procurement process and stretch our funds. Additionally, in his compliance role, he will help us proactively ensure compliance with board policy and state policy.”
A Community Focus
Gresham’s community ties and professionalism promise to be a significant asset to LCSD 55. He officially began his role on September 3, 2024, and everyone is looking forward to seeing how he will influence the district positively.
Looking Ahead
As Laurens County continues to grow and evolve, having experienced individuals like Bryan Gresham on board is crucial for the educational landscape. The district is in good hands as they move into a bright and promising future, and Gresham is excited to contribute in any way he can.
It’s a new chapter not just for Bryan, but for the entire Laurens County School District 55 community. We can’t wait to see all the great things that lie ahead with him leading the charge!
