Dr. Delores Dacosta Receives SC’s Highest Civilian Honor

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Dr. Delores Dacosta, Executive Director of the South Carolina Commission for Community Advancement and Engagement (ADVANCE SC), has been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. Governor Henry McMaster recognized Dacosta during a ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at the South Carolina State House. 

Dacosta becomes the second person and the first woman from Awendaw, SC, to receive the Order of the Palmetto. The late Rev. William Alston, Dacosta’s first cousin and mentor, received the honor in 2005.

“I have learned throughout my life that service is not something we do in silo, we are better when we do it together,” Dacosta said to a room filled with family, friends, state and community partners, and staff. “So although my name may be on this award, your fingerprints are all over the journey that brought me here.”

Established in 1971, the Order of the Palmetto recognizes South Carolinians who have demonstrated a lifetime of extraordinary achievement, service, and contributions on a national or statewide scale.

A resident of Awendaw, SC, Dacosta has more than 40 years of committed public service, which includes 20 years of expertise in federal policies and regulations. She has also worked as a Charleston City police officer and served as a Charleston County magistrate. As executive director, Dacosta has revitalized the Commission by initiating and advocating for changes that foster innovation, promote cultural shifts, and address community needs. 

“Dr. Dacosta has a heart for the people of South Carolina, which is evident in all that she does,” said U.S. Sen. Tim Scott. “Her many years of service will leave an indelible mark on our state.”

Rev. Michael I. Alston of Mount Nebo African Methodist Episcopal Church said “Dr. Dacosta embodies the spirit and essence of public service.”

“Her life’s work reflects the core values celebrated by the Order of the Palmetto: service above self, unwavering integrity, and visionary leadership,” Alston said. “She has consistently demonstrated a rare ability to bring people together across political, racial, and socioeconomic lines, championing unity and progress with grace and resolve.”

Throughout her career, Dacosta has been recognized for her exemplary leadership, advocacy, and service. She is a recipient of the Women in Philanthropy and Leadership award from Coastal Carolina University and the Small Business Advocacy Award from the Minority Business Development.

South Carolina Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine called Dacosta a transformative leader and agent of change. 

“Her ability to identify community needs, foster cultural shifts, and drive innovation has made her a catalyst for meaningful, lasting progress across the state,” Devine said.

SC Commission for Community Advancement and Engagement Chairman Nate Barber and board member Ame Fuss both said Dacosta’s leadership, education, knowledge and overall experiences are admired by all those who encounter her.

“Dr. Delores Dacosta is the example for others as a dedicated and successful leader who is a consistent and exceptional advocate for positive change at all levels of society,” Fuss said. 

About ADVANCE SC
The South Carolina Commission for Community Advancement and Engagement’s mission is to strengthen South Carolina’s rural and under-resourced communities by providing comprehensive research, community-centered strategies, and collaborative partnerships aimed at creating an economically prosperous future. For more information, visit https://advance.sc.gov/.

Additional Content

Dr. Delores Dacosta Bio

Order of the Palmetto Speech

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