The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce has a fresh program for its annual Women's Luncheon. The event, sponsored by REV Federal Credit Union,  will include a dynamic speaker and one very interesting activity.

This year's keynote speaker is Octavia Mitchell of News 2.  Octavia, a native of Awendaw, is a graduate of Lincoln High School and received a Bachelor of Arts in English and Broadcasting from South Carolina State University.  A member of the Count on 2 Team since 2002, she feels blessed to have a career she loves in her hometown. 

Her story of overcoming challenges is sure to inspire!

Along with the great venue and delicious food that attracts busy business women to the event year after year, in 2022 the Chamber has a special activity planned.

Summerville resident Crystal Polk, the owner of Better Tomorrow Therapy, will walk the attendees through Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)  and EFT tapping for stress/anxiety.  These two coping skills  help to quickly decrease intense feelings like as anger, anxiety, and stress.

"These are physical things we can do to help in overwhelming moments," Polk explained.

The Women's Luncheon is held at the Pavilion at Middleton Place on February 22.  The theme is THRIVE.  Registration begins at 11:30. The event officially begins at noon. Registration is open. Sponsorships are available.

About Octavia Mitchell

 Octavia is well-known throughout the Lowcountry for her comprehensive coverage of education. Octavia and News 2 have made a special commitment to covering positive news about local schools. In particular, Octavia’s “Cool School of the Week” segments highlight the many positive and effective programs and community initiatives in local schools.

 Octavia has earned the reputation of being a fair, complete, and balanced reporter. Octavia is an Emmy award-winning journalist. Moreover, she has received numerous awards and accolades for her role in the community. Among her previous recognitions are the title of “Most Cheerful News Anchor” by the Charleston City Paper, and “Community Tribute Honoree” by the MOJA Arts Festival. Her photo has graced the cover of Women of Fruit magazine, an inspirational periodical focused on influential women in the Carolinas.

Octavia was recently inducted into The Citadel's Zucker Family School of Education’s WALL OF FAME. 

 Octavia has served as the media champion for the Lowcountry American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign for several years.

 Octavia says that she is most passionate about telling stories that have a direct impact on the community and that she strives to be, “A voice for the voiceless."

Octavia Mitchell is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and Union African Methodist Episcopal Church. Octavia visits schools regularly and has served as a mentor for many school-aged children. She serves as a mistress of ceremonies or hostess for many school and community events. When not reporting on local news, Octavia enjoys spending time with her husband Neilson Hilton, son Cayden, and her close-knit family. Also, when time allows, Octavia enjoys dancing, reading a good book, writing poetry, swimming, and watching old movies.

About Crystal Polk

 Her mental health private practice serves children and adults. Crystal is a dedicated Licensed Independent Social Worker in SC with an education in both psychology and clinical social work. 

In addition, Crystal is best known for advocating for Parent Caregivers (commonly called special needs parents). She was featured in the film Unseen. She offers professional trainings i.e. MUSC and NASW. This year she is releasing a Workbook for Parent Caregivers. She offers ongoing Parent Caregiver Workshops as well.

Email [email protected] or

Visit her at www.BetterTomorrowTherapy.com