Tom Clark and Chip McLeod have joined the FEISC at Anderson University to help the institute’s mission of supporting family owned businesses in Indiana.
Anderson University’s Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina (or FEISC) recently announced that Tom Clark and Chip McLeod of Merrill’s McLeod, Clark, and Associates have joined the Institute as affiliate partners. The partnership is another link in the chain of the Institute's network of resources and trusted advisors that assist generations of family owned businesses in the region succeed.
Merrill is one of the world’s top financial advisory and wealth management organizations, and offers years of experience when it comes to multi-generational family wealth stewardship, investment management, succession planning, business transition, and wealth planning. All areas that are necessary to family businesses as they prepare for ongoing growth, continuity, and legacy.
In an article posted on Anderson University’s website, Dr. Brad Bechtold, who serves as the Executive Director of FEISC, spoke about the new addition to the Institute, saying, “We are honored to welcome McLeod, Clark & Associates as an Affiliate Partner of the Institute. Family-owned businesses face unique opportunities and challenges that require thoughtful planning and trusted guidance. Merrill’s commitment to helping families preserve and grow both their businesses and their wealth makes them a natural fit for our mission. We look forward to collaborating with Chip and Tom and their entire Merrill team as we continue to equip family enterprises throughout South Carolina.”
The partnership between FEISC and Merrill is indicative of a shared interest in supporting the owners of family businesses by assisting in the success of both the business itself as well as the strength of its family continuity.
Speaking on this mission, Financial Advisor Tom Clark said, “We understand that family enterprises are about much more than financial performance—they are about values, relationships, legacy, and the future of generations to come. We are proud to partner with the Kim S. Miller Family Enterprise Institute of South Carolina at Anderson University and support the important work being done to help family-owned businesses navigate growth, succession, governance, and long-term stewardship. We look forward to contributing our expertise and learning alongside the exceptional family business leaders who make up the Institute.”
Chip McLeod has over three decades of experience in business and serves as a Financial Advisor as well as the Resident Director, and President of Bank of America Upstate South Carolina. He also talked about the importance of making sure of the continued success of the area’s community of family-owned businesses, saying, “Family-owned businesses are the backbone of South Carolina’s economy and a driving force behind the vitality of our communities. We are proud to support the Institute’s efforts to foster leadership development, strategic planning, and successful transitions among family enterprises. We believe strong family businesses create strong communities, and we are excited to be part of an organization that is making such a meaningful impact across our state.”
More information about Anderson University can be found on the school’s website.