Dorchester County Economic Development Director John Truluck Honored as Local Developer of the Year

Member Submission • May 13, 2024

Presented by the SC Economic Developer’s Association

SUMMERVILLE, S.C.– The Dorchester County Economic Development Office proudly announces the recognition of its director, John Truluck, as the recipient of the esteemed Local Developer of the Year Award presented by the South Carolina Economic Developer's Association (SCEDA).

 

This distinguished award celebrates Truluck's 23-year career in economic development, during which he has demonstrated unwavering dedication and outstanding leadership in fostering economic growth and prosperity across South Carolina.

 

Truluck's remarkable contributions have been particularly evident during his tenure as Economic Director with Dorchester County, where he has spearheaded the creation of the Dorchester Economic Development Corporation, a 501c3 organization dedicated to advancing the economic interests of Dorchester County.

 

His 10-year tenure as Economic Director has also resulted in the announcement of more than 34 new and expanding businesses, leading to the creation of 4,642 new jobs and attracting over $1.349 billion in capital investment for the county.

 

The award was presented to Truluck during the 2024 SCEDA Annual Conference this week in Myrtle Beach. "The Local Developer Award signifies more than just recognition. It represents a peer and community acknowledgment of John's dedication and transformative impact on economic development in Dorchester County and the state of South Carolina," said SCEDA President Sandy Steele. "This award sets a high standard for economic developers statewide and highlights the pivotal role played by local developers in driving sustainable growth within our communities."

 

Upon receiving the award, John Truluck expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am deeply honored to receive the Local Developer of the Year Award from SCEDA. This recognition is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our team and the unwavering support from our community partners. I am proud to be part of Dorchester County's journey towards economic prosperity and look forward to continuing our work in making this region a thriving hub for businesses and innovation."

 

"We are incredibly proud of John Truluck and his well-deserved recognition as Developer of the Year," said Walter ‘Skip’ Elliott, Board Chairman for the Dorchester Economic Development Corporation. "His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in driving economic growth and development in our community. This award is a testimony to his hard work and commitment to Dorchester County."

 

Dorchester County Administrator Jason Ward added “John Truluck’s leadership and vision have greatly impacted economic development in Dorchester County. He is great at collaborating, and his team approach to solving problems has not only positively impacted Dorchester County and the Lowcountry but has also advanced economic development in our state. This prestigious award is a well-deserved recognition of his remarkable contributions to our community and beyond.”

 

For more information about the Dorchester County Economic Development Office and its initiatives, please visit www.dorchesterforbusiness.com.

By Caroline Titze September 3, 2026
Edward L. Kabine Receives SCMEP Lifetime Service Award
By Caroline Titze September 3, 2026
Semi-Formal Benefit Banquet at Seacoast Summerville to Raise $100,000 for Residential Addiction Recovery
By Member Submission August 31, 2026
This is Your Chance to Audition for Local, National, and International Scouting Opportunities! 
By Member Submission August 31, 2026
Through its Community Support Awards Program, the shop takes the net proceeds generated from everyday donated goods and awards them as direct cash grants to other local nonprofits across Summerville.
By Member Submission August 28, 2026
Projects like this are Home Telecom’s way of saying ‘thank you’.
By Member Submission August 24, 2026
Rudd also notched its third straight appearance among South Carolina’s 50 Fastest Growing Companies.
By Member Submission August 17, 2026
$15.6 million investment to create 167 new jobs
By Rebecca Collett August 17, 2026
This year’s magazine is packed with stories celebrating the businesses, people and places that make our community such a special place to live, work and visit. 
By Member Submission August 4, 2026
Baker returns to Summerville Hospital after previously serving as CEO in 2022 through 2024.
By Member July 21, 2026
FREE COMMUNITY MASTERCLASS