SCDES Recognizes Columbia Fireflies with 'Power of Partnerships' Award for Environmental Outreach Efforts

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
April 23, 2026 

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The S.C. Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) recognized the Columbia Fireflies as a 2026 recipient of its Power of Partnerships Award, honoring the organization’s commitment to environmental stewardship and strong community collaboration. 

SCDES Director Myra Reece presented the award to the Columbia Fireflies during the team’s April 22, 2026, home game in celebration of Earth Day and Earth Month. The on-field presentation highlighted the Fireflies’ partnership with SCDES and their shared efforts to promote sustainability to the Midlands community. 

“The Columbia Fireflies have been an outstanding partner in helping us connect with the community in meaningful and lasting ways,” said SCDES Director Myra Reece. “Their commitment to promoting sustainability and enhancing recycling efforts at Segra Park demonstrates how impactful collaboration can be when we work together to serve South Carolina.” 

SCDES’s Power of Partnerships Award recognizes organizations that advance the agency’s commitment to Science, Service and Sustainability through collaboration and innovation. Working closely with SCDES's Office of Solid Waste Reduction and Recycling, the Columbia Fireflies have helped advance environmental initiatives, including enhancing recycling infrastructure within Segra Park and expanding sustainability messaging to thousands of fans throughout the baseball season.  

SCDES Director Myra Reece presents the agency’s Power of Partnerships Award to the Fireflies' Brad Shank, Team President, and Kevin Duplaga, Chief Revenue Officer, during an on-field presentation at Segra Park on Earth Day (April 22), in recognition of the organization’s commitment to environmental stewardship and partnership. 

“We are extremely grateful for our partnership with SCDES that allows our team and our fans to play our role by recycling here at the ballpark along with educating our fans on what they can do to help these efforts in our community,” said Brad Shank, Team President of the Columbia Fireflies. “Our team strives to be good stewards of this beautiful ballpark and our community, and it is an honor to receive this recognition on behalf of our entire team.” 

By leveraging their reach and strong community ties, the Columbia Fireflies continue to play a vital role in supporting environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives across South Carolina. 

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