PAI Employee Connect – Q2 2026
PAI Employee Connect – Q2 2026
✅ Teams Update:
The first round of the Teams pilot users is complete—thank you to everyone who participated! We’ll roll out round two in May, followed by a full staff rollout in June. More to come soon!
Quarterly Recap Events:
Self Insurance Institute of America Spring Forum
If you hadn’t attended a Self Insurance Institute of America event before, 2026 would have been the year to start! The SIIA Spring Forum was reintroduced as the Spring Exchange, reflecting an exciting new format. The restructured program highlighted SIIA’s continued commitment to creating an environment that helped members advance their business in the self insurance marketplace while engaging more directly with peers.
There was more of everything—time, educational sessions, public and private meeting space, access to sources of capital, vendor showcases, coaching workshops, and dedicated programming for Women in SIIA.
And the best part? Our President and COO, George Stiles, served as a moderator for the event! We hope you were able to join us.
1st Quarter Award Winners
PAI would be nothing without our amazing staff — and we took the time to recognize a few exemplary employees last month. Winners, customer support teams and nominees enjoyed lunch and time for fellowship.
This year's winners include:
Sales Representative of the Year: Charlie Sears
Account Executive of the year: Mary Bothwell
Super Achiever: Landrey Daniel
Super Achiever: Kayla McManus
Super Achiever: Ebony Burris
Super Achiever: Sherry Branham
Super Achiever: Ken Steele
Super Achiever: Judean Jones
Super Achiever: Mandy Lackey
Team Award: ICHRA Team, lead by Bridgett Cunningham
David Huntington: Shaunee Deas
President’s Super Achiever: Ashley Ellis
South Carolina Public Risk Management Association Conference
PAI had a blast serving as an exhibitor at this year’s South Carolina Public Risk Management Association Conference! Charlie Sears was at the table, enjoying time with clients and connecting with fellow attendees throughout the event.
One to One Health Women in Healthcare Summit
PAI was a proud sponsor of the One to One Health Women in Healthcare Summit. Our own Jennifer McDonald attended and welcomed the opportunity to connect with a community of like minded women leaders.
Health Care Administrators Association® (HCAA) Executive Forum
We were excited to take part in this year’s Health Care Administrators Association® (HCAA) Executive Forum—and not just as attendees. Our President and COO, George Stiles, joined the program to present Bold Without the Noise: Strategic Choices for the TPA C Suite, alongside industry colleagues Todd E. Archer, President of Concierge Third Party Administrator, and Kasha Ozog, Chief Executive Officer of Coastal Administrative Service. The session was expertly moderated by Dr. Madeline Smith, DBA, Founder and COO of MADDRS, LLC.
Bold enough to lead. Brave enough to change.
YMCA Judson Community Center Celebrates 23rd Annual Souper Bowl
The YMCA Judson Community Center’s 23rd annual Souper Bowl was a resounding success, raising over $29,000 with more than 90 attendees in support of local families. Proceeds help address critical needs such as food security, youth programs, and family support services, ensuring access to resources that strengthen stability and well‑being. Thanks to the generosity of supporters like PAI and Account Executive Jenna Davis, this longtime community tradition continues to make a meaningful difference.
🎉 Quarter 2 2026: What We’re Celebrating (April–June)
From spring laughs to summer vibes, Q2 is packed with chances to connect, celebrate, and enjoy a few feel good moments along the way. Here’s what’s coming up!
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🌸 April: Spring Has Sprung!
- April 1 – April Fools’ Day 🤪 (Harmless pranks encouraged. Confusion optional)
- April 3 – Good Friday
- April 5 – Easter Sunday 🐣
- April 15 – Tax Day 💸 (Reward yourself afterward—you’ve earned it)
- April 22 – Earth Day 🌎 (Perfect excuse for a desk plant or a walking meeting.)
- April 23 – Administrative Professionals Day ⭐ (A big thank you to the people who keep everything running!)
- April 30 – Arbor Day 🌳
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🌼 May: Sunshine + Celebration
- May 1 – May Day 🌷
- May 5 – Cinco de Mayo 🎉 (Tacos strongly encouraged)
- May 10 – Mother’s Day 💐
- May 16 – Armed Forces Day 🇺🇸
- May 25 – Memorial Day (Unofficial start of summer—and BBQ season)
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☀️ June: Hello, Summer
- June 14 – Flag Day 🇺🇸
- June 19 – Juneteenth ✊🏽 (A meaningful day of reflection and celebration)
- June 21 – Father’s Day 👔
- June 20 – First Day of Summer 🌞 (Longer days = brighter moods!)
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PAI Office Closures
Monday, May 25th – Memorial Day
👋 Get to Know Howard!
We’re excited to shine the spotlight on Howard, a longtime member of the PAI team whose creativity and curiosity extend far beyond the workplace.
Favorite Movie
Howard’s all time favorite film is The Conversation (1974), directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Gene Hackman—a movie he finds especially intriguing than others.
Favorite Local Restaurant
The Lizard Thicket.
Go To Cafeteria Lunch Order
Howard doesn’t have a go to, but a simple turkey and cheese sandwich with mayo—paired, of course, with a cup of coffee.
Time at PAI
Howard has been part of the PAI team since 2017.
Favorite Way to Spend a Day Off
On a nice day, Howard enjoys taking walks around his neighborhood. He also likes reading and writing in a café as a nice excursion. Years ago, he often visited museums in New York City—experiences that left a lasting impression.
Hobbies + Passions
A true creative spirit, Howard writes short stories and plays, and is passionate about oil painting and pencil sketching.
Words to Live By
One of the most meaningful pieces of advice Howard ever received came from an older friend who told him this when he was much younger and feeling down:
“You’ll find your story is nothing unique—everyone has a sad story to tell.”
It makes him think of how other people go through difficult times also and we should have empathy for each other.
Bucket List
Howard hopes to one day visit the National Mall and Morocco.
Favorite Season
Autumn—when the leaves begin to change color. The season reminds him of how colorful the large hills in rural New York become; perfect study for a painting.
Something You Might Not Know
Howard is an artist at heart and is deeply curious about a wide range of subjects.
🌟 What’s Happening in South Carolina – Q2 2026! 🌟
Spring into summer with festivals, food, outdoor fun, and coastal vibes from April through June!
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🌷 April 2026
Charleston Jazz Festival
• 📅 April 17–26, 2026
• 📍 Multiple venues throughout Charleston
• 🎷 Concerts, jazz legends, local talent, and workshops
• 🔗 Festival Info: www.charlestonjazz.com
SC Strawberry Festival
• 📅 April 24–May 3, 2026
• 📍 Walterboro Wildlife Center, Walterboro
• 🍓 Rides, strawberry treats, live music, family fun
• 🔗 Event Details: www.scstrawberryfestival.com
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🌼 May 2026
High Water Festival
• 📅 May 2–3, 2026
• 📍 Riverfront Park, North Charleston
• 🎶 Music + food fest curated by Hootie + the Blowfish
• 🍔 Southern eats, craft drinks, national artists
• 🔗 Tickets + Lineup: www.highwaterfest.com
Beach Music Festival
• 📅 May 22–24, 2026 (Memorial Day Weekend)
• 📍 Main Street, North Myrtle Beach
• 🎵 Classic beach music, dancing, ocean breeze
• 🕺 Shag friendly vibes all weekend
• 🔗 Festival Info: www.beachmusicfestival.com
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🌴 June 2026
Carolina Country Music Fest
• 📅 June 4–7, 2026
• 📍 Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
• 🎤 Major country stars, beachside stages, fan zones
• 🎶 Four days of music and coastal fun
• 🔗 Festival Details: www.ccmf.com
Spoleto Festival USA
• 📅 May 22–June 7, 2026
• 📍 Historic theaters + venues across Charleston
• 🎭 Opera, theater, dance, classical + jazz performances
• 🌍 One of America’s premier arts festivals
• 🔗 Tickets + Schedule: www.spoletousa.org
Beaufort Water Festival (Kickoff Events)
• 📅 Late June 2026
• 📍 Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort
• 🚤 Boat races, live music, family activities
• 🔗 Event Info: www.beaufortwaterfestival.com
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🎟 Q2 Event Pick Poll
👉 Which South Carolina event would you most love to attend? Submit your answer to marketing@paisc.com for a gift.
• High Water Festival
• Spoleto Festival USA
• Carolina Country Music Fest
• SC Strawberry Festival
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🌴 Planning to Go?
👉 Most events sell tickets early—check official sites for updates and schedules.
🌍 Global Flavors for Q2: Celebrate Culture Through Food
Explore the world one bite at a time this spring and summer!
Each dish below is tied to a global celebration and includes a simple recipe overview you can try at home. Share your creations with coworkers and celebrate culture together.
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🌸 April
🐉 Songkran (Thailand – April 13–15)
Thailand’s traditional New Year is all about renewal, gratitude, and joy. Water symbolizes cleansing and fresh starts—perfect for welcoming spring.
🍜 Featured Dish: Pad Thai
A sweet-and-savory noodle dish loved worldwide
Simple Recipe Snapshot:
- Stir fry rice noodles with scrambled egg, shrimp or tofu, and green onions
- Add Pad Thai sauce (tamarind paste, fish sauce or soy sauce, brown sugar)
- Finish with crushed peanuts and lime juice
🥭 Bonus Sweet: Mango Sticky Rice
- Cook glutinous rice
- Simmer coconut milk with sugar and salt
- Serve over sliced ripe mango
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🌼 May
🌺 Cinco de Mayo (Mexico – May 5)
Often misunderstood, this holiday celebrates Mexican heritage and resilience—and it’s a great excuse to enjoy bold, comforting flavors.
🌮 Featured Dish: Chicken Tacos
Simple, customizable, and perfect for sharing
Simple Recipe Snapshot:
- Season chicken with cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime
- Sauté until juicy and golden
- Serve in warm tortillas with lettuce, cheese, and salsa
🥑 Side Favorite: Fresh Guacamole
- Mash ripe avocados with lime juice
- Stir in salt, onion, and cilantro
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🌞 June
🌍 Juneteenth (U.S. – June 19)
Juneteenth commemorates freedom and honors Black history, heritage, and resilience. Food traditions center around red foods and classic soul food flavors.
🍗 Featured Dish: Baked BBQ Chicken
A flavorful, comforting staple
Simple Recipe Snapshot:
- Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Bake until tender
- Brush generously with BBQ sauce and bake uncovered until caramelized
🍉 Symbolic Side: Watermelon Slices
- Fresh, juicy, and traditionally served at Juneteenth gatherings
- Optional twist: sprinkle with mint and lime