For Immediate Release
March 31, 2026
From the Office of Communications
Phone: 803.435.4435
Manning Junior High School Hosts Amazon Logistics Leaders for Inspiring Student Engagement
Amazon Visits Manning Junior High School After-School Students
March 30, 2026 – Manning, SC – Manning Junior High School had the distinct honor of welcoming three remarkable female logistics leaders from Amazon, Key Nelson, Kristian Ford, and Charlone Williams, as part of the Original Six Foundation's O6 Afterschool program, coinciding with Women's History Month. This initiative, which plays a crucial role in educating students about careers in operations and logistics, is vital for inspiring the next generation of leaders.
The visit was truly a celebration of empowerment. The Amazon leaders shared their personal career journeys, addressing the challenges and triumphs they've faced in a traditionally male-dominated industry. "As women in logistics, we aim to break barriers and pave the way for future generations," said Key Nelson. “It’s not just about logistics; it’s about leadership. We want these students to envision themselves in roles that influence and shape the future.”
Throughout the day, students engaged in enlightening discussions about the importance of operations and logistics in delivering products to customers while receiving invaluable advice on pursuing success in their education and everyday lives. The team also led students through stretching and warm-up exercises commonly practiced at the Amazon fulfillment center, emphasizing workplace safety and wellness.
In a generous move, Amazon surprised the Original Six Foundation with a $10,000 grant to support its literacy programs. This donation highlights Amazon's commitment to community initiatives and its support for educational advancement.
Kara Gormley Meador, executive director of the Original Six Foundation, expressed her gratitude: “Opportunities like this help our students see what's possible. At O6 Afterschool, we believe students need to see it to be it, and we're grateful for partners like Amazon who invest their time to inspire students in rural communities to dream bigger.”
"We are thankful for the ongoing support of community partners like the Original 06 Foundation, who invest so much in our students," said Anthony Williams, Principal of Manning Junior High. "These opportunities encourage our students to dream big."
The Original Six Foundation, founded in 2011, focuses on uplifting South Carolina's underserved and rural communities through various literacy initiatives. With over 1,900 students already impacted by the O6 Afterschool program, the foundation continues to create pathways to success for young learners.
Photos and videos of the visit can be found HERE.
For additional information, please contact:
Kara Gormley Meador
Executive Director
Original Six Foundation
District Media Contact:
Dr. Keisa Carr
Director of Communications and Community Relations