The Harbor Entrepreneur Center director, CSU alum receives Distinguished Service Award

John Osborne, a successful Charleston entrepreneur, was presented the Distinguished Service Award at Charleston Southern University’s commencement ceremonies Saturday, May 5 at North Charleston Coliseum.

Osborne is the executive administrator of Charleston Angel Partners, director of The Harbor Entrepreneur Center and managing partner of Good Growth Capital. In addition, he has a background in the financial services industry in commercial banking, private banking and wealth management with First Citizens Bank, Regions Bank, Bank of America and MassMutual.

He received a bachelor of science in finance and economics from Charleston Southern in 2002 and played on the CSU men’s golf team for four years.

“CSU provided a great foundation in my chosen major of finance and economics to build from as I continue to grow businesses which also support economic development efforts in our region,” said Osborne. “My involvement in startups stems from a combination of genuinely caring about seeing people pursue their passions and a recognition of the need for a more systematic way to connect people with resources to those who need them. It’s been a lifelong journey which is still evolving.”

President Jairy C. Hunter Jr. said, “John always exhibits strong leadership skills and a willingness to help others.  John is a superb example of a servant business leader. He is humble, intelligent and committed to helping entrepreneurs be successful in their business ventures. We are blessed that John chose to attend CSU. He was an excellent golfer and student. ”

Osborne said, “To be recognized for service to the community, which is something I am passionate about, by CSU is a humbling honor for which I am grateful.”

Osborne is a 2008 graduate of Leadership Charleston. He is currently serving on the West Ashley Revitalization Commission, the South Carolina Innovation Advisory Council, and is a founding member of the Start Up Champions Network. He has been recognized by Charleston Regional Business Journal as a 40 under 40; by Azalea Magazine as Visionary of the Year, and was named to Charlie Magazine’s50 Most Progressive. 

He has been on the Board of Directors for Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, The Education Foundation, The Charleston International Film Festival and The Harbor Entrepreneur Center. 

Related Stories