The Challenger Learning Center Advisory Board promotes the development of the Challenger Learning Center of RCSD1 as it relates to and meets the needs of students, the community, and the public.
The Advisory Board oversees the Challenger Learning Center Foundation.
Members of the 2021-2022 Challenger Learning Center Advisory Board:
Paul Werts, Chair
Paul Werts is the former Program Manager of Airport Development and Division of Aeronautics Special Programs with the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission. He is a Board Member of the Celebrate Freedom Foundation, a Chapter Member of the Thrivent Financial Church Council, and a member of the South Carolina Aviation Association. He received a degree is Civil Engineering Technology from Midlands Technical College and is a Certified Public Manager. He formerly served as the Director of the South Carolina Aeronautics Commission.
John Busch, Vice-Chair
John Busch is an entrepreneur who serves on the College of Charleston Board of Trustees and the Humanities Council of South Carolina. He is a former F-16 pilot at McEntire JNGB. He received his bachelor’s degree from the College of Charleston, a Master’s of Strategic Studies from the USAF Air War College, and an International MBA from the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina.
Angel Anderson
Angel Anderson represents the University of South Carolina’s McNAIR Center for Aerospace Innovation & Research.
Adrianne Beasley
Adrianne Beasley serves as the Director of Strategy and Communiciations at the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness/, an organization working to advance economic growth in South Carolina. She previously served as the ‎Director of Aerospace Initiatives at the SC Council on Competitiveness and Program Manager for the University of South Carolina’s McNAIR Center for Aerospace Innovation & Research.
Don Purcell
Don Purcell is the President of the Spring Valley Auto Group. He is the past Chairman of the Richland County Airport Commission and past President of the South Carolina Aviation Association. He is a past Chairman and Board Member of the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and a past Chairman and Board Member of the NE Area Council. He serves as a Board Member and is on the Executive Committee for the Richland County Cultural Council. He serves on the Richland School District 2 Superintendent’s Advisory Committee.