One of Beth Carrigg’s strongest attributes is the ability to connect people, especially with differing points of view. On January 10 of this year, Lexington County Council unanimously elected Carrigg, of Council District Seven, to serve as Chairwoman. As only the second female to lead in the history of Lexington County Council, Carrigg loves serving the public and being a problem-solver. In fact, she says she thrives on it. The foundation of her work is, in her words, “Communication, communication, communication.”
Carrigg grew up in Columbia, the youngest of seven children, the oldest of which were twin siblings seventeen years older than she. As older siblings moved on with their own families, Carrigg’s role became that of an only child in the home. Her father’s lengthy and varied military service assured that Carrigg was given high expectations, firm discipline, and plenty of love.
Twelve years of dance, participation in color guard, marching band, and modeling were just a few of Carrigg’s parent-organized activities.
Carrigg initially worked as a paralegal, but had her mind set on becoming a lawyer. At age twenty-nine, she decided to enroll at the University of South Carolina to pursue her degree. While working with a law firm, Carrigg met her husband John, an attorney. They married and became a blended family with three children. Carrigg figured one lawyer in the family was enough. She says, “John Carrigg has been the most influential person in my life, outside of Jesus Christ. At twenty-three years we are still striving, and he is my best friend. He shaped me as a leader.”
Carrigg feels the best preparation for her current role as county council chairperson was serving as clerk of court for twelve years. She believes that when you are elected and set out to accomplish your goals, everything is based on communication. She says, “I was very fortunate to be in the role of clerk of court because it was a bridge to so many important people with whom I now work closely on council.”
Perhaps the most significant skill Beth Carrigg brings to her work is her commitment to bringing cohesion to different sides of an issue. She can work “with both sides of the aisle.” It is all too rare a skill among leaders these days, and they could learn something from Beth Carrigg’s approach to bringing unity.
To relax, Carrigg enjoys reading, walking the beach, and spending time with her two grandchildren.