Rhonda Maree O’Banion, Dominican Energy South Carolina Media Communications Manager, was one of the top 10 recipients of the award at the YWCA Greater Charleston 4th Annual #WhatWomenBring event. The annual event recognizes the strongest women in business, community and cultural leadership from nine industries in South Carolina.
“I am honored to be recognized by the YWCA as one of the best women in the world,” Obanion said. “This organization, under the leadership of a woman who has a strong passion for its cause, is working tirelessly to fulfill its mission to empower women and eradicate racism. I encourage people to support their work to make a difference in the lives of women and people of color.
In her role with Dominion Energy, Obanion leads a team of communications professionals responsible for highlighting the company’s commitment to clients and communities through media relations, case management, executive communications consultants, strategic partnerships, and more. She sits on the company’s Community Investment Board, the Diversity and Inclusion Council, and the Social Justice Review Committee. She has taught communications courses as an assistant professor and is a former president of the South Carolina International Association of Business Communications. Throughout her career, Obanyon has been recognized for her excellence in the energy industry and communications. She is a graduate of Leadership Energy Carolina and a member of the American Black Association.
At the WCBC News 2 Octavia Mitchell, the 10 winners received a panel discussion on gender discrimination, gender pay, gender equality and health. Regarding the success of women in the workplace and the importance of different voices, Obanion said, “We have a unique and unique and valuable voice and a company like Dominion Energy includes absolute diversity, fairness and inclusion, certainly those voices on the table and in the room. It is important that they stay inside.
Obanion is a Walterborro High School student. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communication from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. She and her family live in Irmo, South Carolina.