In resonance with this year’s empowering theme, “Invest In Women: Accelerate Progress,” we’re shining a spotlight on a few of the many remarkable women driving success across our organization. Dive into our exclusive Q&A featuring insights from four talented females in golf operations, club management, and corporate leadership. Though this is an imperfect, incomplete list, each of the distinctive women profiled here play indispensable roles at The Cliffs, nurturing our community in unique and impactful ways.
Corin Hewins
Property Manager | The Cliffs Property Management
How long have you been with The Cliffs?
A year and eight months.
Can you share a moment when you felt empowered or supported by your colleagues in your professional journey?
Two months after joining The Cliffs, my mother was admitted to MUSC due to kidney failure. As a recent new hire still finding my way throughout the company, the stressors of having a new position and building a new program, all while trying to balance my mom’s illness, were overwhelming. Hesitant to discuss with anyone, I finally explained the situation and could not believe the amount of support I received from so many of my co-workers. Both professionally and personally. I am forever grateful and thankful for every one of them. I couldn’t have made it through that time without their support!
What advice would you give young women starting their management careers?
My biggest piece of advice would be to be yourself. I know that sounds so cliché, but seriously, be yourself. People gravitate towards authenticity. When you can genuinely show up as your best self, it will pour over into your work.
In what way does our organization empower women in the workplace?
I am fortunate to be surrounded by other bright, confident, and intelligent women in our company who have empowered me in so many ways. I’m an advocate for women being seen and heard, especially in the workplace. Our organization’s continued encouragement and support enhance the culture of our team.
Paige Frazier
General Manager | The Cliffs at Mountain Park
How long have you been with The Cliffs?
Two years.
Can you share a moment when you felt empowered or supported by your colleagues or leadership team in your professional journey?
I am a woman working in a very male-dominated position, but I have always felt like an equal alongside my male counterparts. I feel empowered every day and love being a role model for women in the industry who are looking to grow.
What advice would you give young women starting hospitality or management careers?
When you hit a wall, stay the course. Hard work, dedication, and commitment do pay off.
In what way does our organization empower women in the workplace?
The Cliffs does an excellent job of supporting women in the workplace. I have always felt included and have always felt like I have a voice.
Kaelynn Elliott
Head Golf Professional | The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
How long have you been with The Cliffs?
I have been with The Cliffs for a little over three years.
Can you share a moment when you felt empowered or supported by your colleagues or leadership team in your professional journey?
A moment when I felt empowered by both my colleagues and leadership team in my professional journey was fairly recently when I got promoted to my current position. The Director of Golf, Mike Steele, mentored me throughout the process leading up to my change in title. My coworkers cheered me on every step of the way as well. I felt very encouraged, which made the transition into more responsibility so much easier. I am so thankful for my team and the way we are constantly supporting each other to be the best we can be.
What advice would you give young women starting their golf careers?
The advice I would give young women starting their golf careers is to find what part of the industry they have a passion for and pursue that avenue. Doing something you love makes the tough days a whole lot easier, and then work will feel less like work and more enjoyable. Also, connect with other women in the industry as much as you can by networking, which will open doors and provide mentorship opportunities. Learn from your mistakes and celebrate your achievements. The golf industry is full of opportunities, and with hard work and determination, you can achieve your career goals!
Heather Rugh
Clubhouse Manager | The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards
How long have you been with The Cliffs?
Four and half months.
What advice would you give young women starting hospitality or management careers?
Do not lose sight of who you are, and do not give up. You can do this! The company that has brought you into their corporation or promoted you from within believes in you. Show them why they were right to have you on their team, and then show them more. This is just the beginning. Everything we go through–whether it is positive or negative–helps us to grow. What we take away from our professional experiences can create the step to the next rung on the ladder and open us to further opportunities.
To learn more about career opportunities at The Cliffs, click below. If you have a passion, we have a position.
