Monday, February 3, 2025
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Roper Hospital expands board with local leaders to guide future growth
As Roper St. Francis Healthcare embarks on the transformational journey of building a state-of-the-art Roper Hospital Campus in North Charleston, the healthcare system remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a culture of engagement and advocacy.
What sets it apart from competitors is a strong sense of camaraderie and community. This is achieved by ensuring team members and volunteers reflect the rich diversity of the region—its backgrounds, demographics and perspectives. By welcoming local leaders to the board, the healthcare system strengthens its ability to serve patients while staying deeply connected to the communities that rely on it.
Roper St. Francis Healthcare welcomes a new group of highly accomplished local leaders to the Roper Hospital Board. These individuals, who have volunteered their time and expertise, bring invaluable insight that will shape the direction of the hospital and strengthen its mission to provide exceptional care to patients and the community.
NEW BOARD MEMBERS
Listed in alphabetical order
Rev. Dr. Byron L. Benton
The senior pastor of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, Dr. Benton is a leader in community engagement, ministry and social justice. He serves on numerous advisory boards, including the Lowcountry Food Bank, and is known for his dedication to family and faith-based initiatives. His background in business education, pastoral care and marriage and family therapy makes him a valuable voice on the board.
Mayor Reginald “Reggie” Burgess
A native of North Charleston’s Union Heights and Liberty Hill neighborhoods, Mayor Burgess has dedicated his life to public service. After an impressive football career at Morgan State University, he transitioned to law enforcement, serving with distinction in the North Charleston Police Department for nearly three decades, ultimately becoming chief of police. In 2024, he was inaugurated as mayor of North Charleston, bringing his leadership and community engagement experience to the hospital board.
Natalie Caula Hauff
A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Hauff is deputy director of the Charleston County Public Library, overseeing partnerships, outreach and marketing. With a career spanning print, television and digital media, she has been a strong advocate for public access to information, literacy and community engagement. Her leadership will be instrumental in expanding the hospital’s outreach initiatives.
Bernett “Bernie” William Mazyck
The founding and only president and CEO of the South Carolina Association for Community Economic Development, Mazyck has dedicated his career to improving economic conditions in low-wealth communities across the state. With expertise in financial strategies and wealth-building initiatives, he is an influential advocate for sustainable community development and will bring this experience to the hospital board.
Sunju Patel
A seasoned entrepreneur and real estate leader, Patel has over 20 years of experience in investments, acquisitions and development, particularly in hospitality and commercial real estate. As the founder and CEO of TMGOC Ventures, Patel has cultivated a deep understanding of business growth, capital markets and strategic development, which will be essential as Roper Hospital expands its presence in the region.
Audrey K. Starks Lane
A founding partner and executive director of E3 (Educate, Empower, and Elevate), Lane is an advocate for racial and economic justice. She has extensive experience in talent pipeline development, leadership strategy and community engagement, ensuring that underserved communities have access to resources and opportunities. Her commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion will be a vital asset to the hospital board.
RETURNING BOARD MEMBERS
Listed in alphabetical order
The healthcare system also extends its gratitude to the returning board members for their continued dedication and service to Roper Hospital:
- John Buxton – Sales professional, CVRx
- Jay Davis – Attorney, Clement Rivers LLP
- Jairy Hunter – President emeritus, CSU
- Lynne Kerrison – CFO, Bishop Gadsden
- Hunter Louis (Chair) – ED physician, RSF Emergency Physicians
- Craig Mackaness, M.D. (Vice Chair) – Hospitalist leader, InCompass/RSFH
- Edward Rawl – Attorney, Boeing
Their ongoing leadership and commitment are invaluable as the healthcare system continues to advance healthcare in the community. Together, with new and returning board members, Roper St. Francis Healthcare looks forward to shaping the future of Roper Hospital and ensuring it remains a trusted healthcare partner for generations to come.