FOLEY, AL – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce welcomed business leaders, elected officials, educators, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to its latest Leadership Series luncheon, presented by Vulcan, Inc., featuring Terri Graham, CEO of the Solid Waste Disposal Authority of Baldwin County (SWDA).

Held at the Foley Civic Center and catered by Jim 'N Nick's Community BBQ, the luncheon continued the Chamber's commitment to connecting members with influential leaders and timely conversations that impact the future of South Baldwin.

One of the Chamber's premier programs, the Leadership Series is designed to keep members informed, engaged, and connected. Held approximately eight times each year, these luncheons feature respected speakers addressing topics that influence our business community. From economic development and workforce initiatives to environmental stewardship and public policy, the Leadership Series provides meaningful insight while creating valuable networking opportunities among business professionals, civic leaders, educators, and decision-makers throughout the region.

South Baldwin Chamber Chair-Elect Bob McDowell opened the program by leading the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance before welcoming attendees. He then introduced Daniel Thompson of Vulcan, Inc., who shared remarks on behalf of the presenting sponsor before McDowell welcomed featured speaker Terri Graham, CEO of the Solid Waste Disposal Authority of Baldwin County, to the podium.

Graham provided an informative overview of the Solid Waste Disposal Authority's role in serving Baldwin County while highlighting the organization's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship through innovative recycling, waste management, education, and long-term sustainability initiatives.

Her presentation showcased how SWDA continues to expand recycling opportunities across Baldwin County through various public recycling drop-off locations, advanced processing technology, and community education programs that encourage responsible waste management. Attendees also learned about the Authority's Materials Recovery Facility, where state-of-the-art optical sorting systems help recover and process thousands of tons of recyclable materials each year.

Graham shared where Baldwin County's recyclable materials go after collection, explaining how fiber products, plastics, metals, and specialty materials are processed and marketed to manufacturers, creating new products while reducing landfill waste. She also highlighted the continued success of the Waste & Recycling Adventure Center, an educational facility that has welcomed thousands of students, organizations, and community members to learn about recycling, sustainability, and environmental responsibility through interactive experiences.

Throughout the presentation, Graham emphasized that effective waste management extends far beyond collection services. By investing in education, expanding recycling access, improving technology, and planning for future growth, the Solid Waste Disposal Authority continues working to preserve Baldwin County's quality of life while supporting one of Alabama's fastest-growing regions.

The South Baldwin Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to Vulcan, Inc., Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 Leadership Series, and to Daniel Thompson for representing the company during the luncheon. Their continued investment helps bring influential speakers and relevant discussions to South Baldwin's business community.

Special thanks are also extended to Warren Averett, the Chamber's Educational Enrichment Sponsor, for helping make student participation possible throughout the Leadership Series. Their continued support provides students with opportunities to experience meaningful conversations alongside business and community leaders while gaining valuable insight into the issues shaping the future of South Baldwin.

The Chamber also thanks Jim 'N Nick's Community BBQ for providing an outstanding lunch for attendees, as well as the Chamber Diplomats whose volunteer efforts helped welcome guests and ensure another successful program.

As part of the South Baldwin Chamber's ongoing effort to spotlight nonprofit partners, South Alabama Land Trust and Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation were also in attendance. Representatives from both organizations hosted display tables and connected with attendees throughout the luncheon, sharing information about their missions and the meaningful impact they continue to make across South Baldwin and beyond. The Chamber is proud to provide two nonprofit organizations with this opportunity at each Leadership Series luncheon, helping increase awareness of the vital services they provide throughout our community.

The South Baldwin Chamber remains committed to connecting its members with influential leaders and meaningful conversations that drive progress, strengthen partnerships, and prepare our region for continued success. Through programs like the Leadership Series, the Chamber continues to provide valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and engage with the people and organizations shaping South Baldwin's future.

Join us for an upcoming Leadership Series luncheon by visiting the Chamber's Events Calendar or learn more about the program at southbaldwinchamber.com/leadership-series.