2020 AWARDS & RECOGNITION
SPIRIT OF GREENVILLE AWARD
This award honors an individual whose positive attitude and outlook inspires others in our community . Through their actions , values and beliefs , this person motivates others to come together , work productively with one another , and ensure mutual success for all .
The Chamber received numerous nominations for this award , but one name was consistent - this individual ’ s enthusiasm and love for Greenville is evident in everything she does - from walking up and down Commerce Street greeting anyone and everyone about how great Greenville is , to blanketing social media with ideas on how to grow Greenville and encouraging others to get involved in the city ’ s success from investing into vacant buildings to sharing ideas on new business ventures and possibilities .
The recipient of this year ’ s Spirit of Greenville award has a love and enthusiasm for Greenville that radiates throughout the community and provides encouragement to others .
A Greenville native , Greenville High School graduate , and local business owner Danan Whiddon has an intrepid spirit that has led her on adventures , from earning her bachelors degree from the University of New Orleans , her master ’ s degree from the University of Alabama to getting certification in alternative forms of health and wellness as an aromatherapist , herbalist and Reiki practitioner . While at UA , she worked with the Strode Program for Renaissance Studies where she studied Shakespeare and 17th Century poets .
Danan has a wealth of experience under her belt - from teaching English at the University of Alabama to a home school teacher and instructor , before getting back to her hometown roots where she owns and operates Sweet Heart Alabama - a natural health shop that offers a holistic approach to health , located in the heart of downtown Greenville .
Her business venture didn ’ t start out as a traditional brick and mortar one . It was a “ shop on wheels ” famously known as Tawonda . It was Tawonda - a shiny vintage airstream - that allowed Danan to return to the Camellia City in 2017 to be near her family while making a living and eventually evolving into a full time career in 2018 .
Danan is not only one of Greenville ’ s biggest cheerleaders in her efforts to promote the city to others , she contributes her fair share of civic rent , serving on the boards of Greenville Rotary Club , the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce , Pioneer Cemetery Preservation Association , Healing Hearts , and continues her love for teaching as a part time English Instructor at LBWCC .
Danan says her favorite thing about Greenville is its people . She believes the history and the architecture is great , but the people is what make the Camellia City alive and well . She says Greenville has so much going for itself – the location , infrastructure , city leaders – it really is the perfect set up .
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