Columbia, SC – SC Whitmore School (SCWS), a statewide online public charter high school, has named Principal, Eboné Adams as its 2025 Staff Member of the Year.
Adams’s desire to join the education field and help others started at a very young age. “I always felt a sense of fulfillment when helping my peers with their struggles, whether academic or personal,” said Adams. “This passion evolved into a focus on counseling, as I realized that students need not just academic support but emotional and social guidance to truly thrive. That’s when I decided to pursue a career in school counseling, combining my love for helping others with my belief in the power of education to shape lives for the better.”
Adams started her career as a school counselor in 2009 in a virtual school setting. She then joined SC Whitmore School in 2011. Adams transitioned to Director of School Counseling in 2011, then to Assistant Principal in 2015, the Director of Student Services in 2017, the Assistant Principal, and now the Principal of SC Whitmore School.
“While my career path changed over time from counselor to administrator, my day-to-day responsibilities changed, but the reason behind what we do as a school still remained the same,” said Adams. “I'm just helping and guiding others who also share the same passion.”
Adams earned her undergraduate degree from the College of Charleston and her Ed.S. in School Counseling from the University of South Carolina.
Adams is grateful to work with so many wonderful students and to collaborate with caring and professional faculty and staff.
“Connecting with students and staff is about being approachable and genuinely invested in their well-being,” said Adams. “I make an effort to understand each person's individual needs, struggles, and aspirations. I also foster an open-door policy, where both students and staff feel comfortable coming to me with concerns, questions, or ideas. Building trust is key, and I do this by maintaining consistency, being empathetic, and offering support without judgment. It’s important for people to know they can rely on me and that I’ll always have their best interests at heart no matter what.”
SC Whitmore School Director of Operations and Human Resources, Susan Herring said, "Eboné Adams consistently demonstrates exceptional talent and dedication in her role at South Carolina Whitmore School. Her ability to seamlessly manage complex tasks while supporting her colleagues and students is truly remarkable. Eboné's innovative solutions and proactive approach to challenges have greatly enhanced our operations. Her commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment is inspiring and pivotal to our school's success. We are thrilled to honor Eboné as the 2025 Staff Member of the Year, as her contributions are invaluable and deeply appreciated. Congratulations, Eboné, on this well-earned recognition."
Adams describes her work style as collaborative, compassionate, and solution-focused. She believes that by incorporating strategies such as goal setting, personalized support, and positive reinforcement, she can empower those she works with, including students and peers, to grow and succeed.
Communication is important in school and a big part of being successful in virtual school.
Adams said, “In a virtual setting, my advice to teachers and staff is to remain flexible and creative. Virtual education can be a challenge, but it is also an opportunity to explore innovative ways to engage with students. Creating an inclusive environment through online activities, clear communication, and accessible resources can help make the virtual space feel as connected as the physical classroom. Build relationships with students through regular check-ins, show interest in their progress, and be patient as everyone adjusts to the virtual experience.”
The SC Whitmore School Staff of the Year Award was a nice surprise and brings Adams great joy. “Education is not just about the lessons taught but about nurturing the whole person,” said Adams. “I am honored to have received the Employee of the Year recognition, but my true reward comes from seeing the growth and success of the students and staff I work with. Together, we can continue creating an environment where everyone feels valued and capable of reaching their fullest potential.”
SC Whitmore School Executive Director Kim Dunbar said, "Eboné Adams is an exceptional asset to the South Carolina Whitmore School community. Her unwavering professionalism and dedication to supporting both faculty and students has been instrumental in fostering a positive and productive environment. Eboné's ability to manage administrative tasks with grace and efficiency is truly commendable. Her commitment to excellence and her positive attitude inspire everyone around her. This recognition as the 2025 Staff Member of the Year is a testament to her invaluable contributions and the respect she has earned from all members of our school. Congratulations, Eboné, on this well-deserved honor.”