Amy Fabri
For Charleston County Council (Democrat and Working Families Party Candidate)
As a first time candidate Amy Fabri brings to her race for Charleston County Council a refreshing passion for community service combined with a solid business background, a union rarely found in career politicians.
Born in Evanston, IL Amy moved to South Carolina in 1972 where she and her family eventually settled in Charleston. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Art History, Amy moved to Chicago to begin a successful business career.
Amy was soon hired by Minnesota, Mining & Manufacturing (3M) eventually being transferred to the New York metropolitan area where she excelled in 3M’s Construction Markets Division. Amy won numerous sales awards at 3M and consulted on varied projects from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Lincoln Tunnel.
In 2006, Amy returned to the lowcountry and began working with her family’s chemical research and development company where she serves as operations manager.
Since returning Amy has been heavily involved in her community and in 2008 co-founded Islanders for Responsible Expansion (IRE), a grassroots coalition that works to protect the quality of life on James Island and Folly Beach. As president of IRE Amy has prevented the destruction of 43 grand oaks, stopped development of mitigated wetlands and was commended by the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust for her work to stop development on historic Morris Island. Amy also serves as board member and intake coordinator for Lowcountry Lab Rescue.
Amy and her husband live on James Island with their four rescued Labradors.
www.amyfabri.com
Here are Ms. Fabri's answers to some questions posed by the Institute.
What is the first political event or experience you can remember? How did it affect you?
While I was in college I attended a political rally with my Mom. We marched hand in hand for women’s rights. It was a very cool experience.
South Carolina would be a better place if only…
There were more women in office.
Has there been a woman who you’ve admired in the political world and what is it about her that gives you courage to run the race?
My mother. At 37 she had the courage to go back to school to get her law degree. She taught me that if you want to change begins with you. She has always been involved in politics and impressed upon me the politics of independence- not necessarily party.
What’s the most valuable educational experience you’ve had?
You are never too old to learn. No one has all the answers.
Has political office been a life long dream/goal of yours or has something moved you to this decision?
I’ve always been passionate about public service. Whether campaigning for animal rights or trying to protect the environment, I’ve always been an active member of my community. At this point in my life running for political office seemed the next logical step in changing the world for the better. Holding a political office would allow me to finally make a difference from the other side of the fence.