Columbia, S.C, July 18, 2025 – The American Red Cross of South Carolina is excited to announce Denise Teasdell has been named the new Executive Director for the Central Chapter. Denise moves into her new position following her role as the Regional Service Armed Forces and International Services Director for the Red Cross of South Carolina.

As the Executive Director, Denise will lead the important humanitarian mission of the Red Cross serving the Midlands including Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg, Richland, Saluda, Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Edgefield, Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee and Sumter counties.

“We are grateful to have Denise’s leadership for the Central Chapter and know her heart for service and extensive military experience—both as a service member and in serving the military community—will be an invaluable asset in carrying out our mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering,” said Susan Everitt, Regional CEO for the Red Cross of South Carolina.

Denise will partner with civic and governmental leaders to keep communities prepared for emergencies, and she will ensure the Red Cross stands ready to meet the needs of medical centers with constant availability of lifesaving blood products. She will also partner with local donors to raise funds and awareness for the many humanitarian services provided by the Red Cross.

“I am truly honored and grateful to serve as the Executive Director of the Central Chapter. I look forward to broadening my network, supporting team morale, and contributing to a strong, united chapter,” said Denise. “As the Executive Director, I am committed to assisting in all disaster response efforts—whether house fires, natural disasters, or other emergencies—doing all I can to give my very best to ensure our collective success and a prepared community.”

Last year in the Central Chapter, Red Cross volunteers provided care, food, hope, and shelter to more than 1,800 people who faced emergencies. The Lowcountry Chapter responded to more than 500 local disasters and distributed nearly $400,000 in direct financial assistance to those impacted. The accomplishments of the South Carolina Central Chapter are a product of the hard work and dedication of nearly 1,100 local Red Cross volunteers in our community, with whom Denise will work hand in hand.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.