Nancy Ragonese: Bridging Heritage and Progress in Aiken, SC

Nancy Ragonese is a dedicated entrepreneur, community advocate, and equestrian enthusiast based in Aiken, South Carolina. Growing up on a family-owned farm surrounded by Aiken’s rich equestrian culture, she developed a deep connection to the land and its people. Nancy’s formative years shaped her commitment to preserving Aiken’s unique charm while fostering sustainable growth.

With a degree in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina, Nancy has built a multifaceted career that reflects her passions. She founded Palmetto Pathways, a nonprofit organization focused on sustainable tourism, small business development, and community empowerment. As the co-owner of Ragonese Realty Group, she specializes in historic homes and equestrian estates, blending her business acumen with her love for Aiken’s heritage.

Beyond her professional achievements, Nancy is deeply involved in local philanthropy and environmental initiatives. Her mission is to create lasting connections between people, businesses, and the natural world, ensuring Aiken thrives for generations to come. In this exclusive interview, Nancy shares her thoughts on leadership, sustainability, and the role of heritage in modern development.

What drives your passion for preserving Aiken’s heritage while embracing modern progress?

Aiken’s heritage is its heartbeat. From our equestrian traditions to the historic downtown, these elements define who we are as a community. At the same time, progress is essential for growth and sustainability. My goal has always been to find a balance between the two—to honor our past while building a future that reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents.

Preservation doesn’t mean staying stagnant; it means being intentional. For example, when working with clients through Ragonese Realty Group, I’m always thinking about how a property’s history can add value to its future use. Similarly, through Palmetto Pathways, we’ve developed programs that highlight Aiken’s unique assets while promoting sustainable practices. Progress rooted in respect for our heritage isn’t just possible; it’s the key to lasting success.

How do your experiences as an equestrian shape your approach to leadership?

Riding and working with horses teach you so much about patience, trust, and adaptability. Horses are incredibly intuitive, and they require you to be fully present and clear in your intentions. As a leader, I’ve found these lessons invaluable. Whether I’m guiding a team, mentoring a young entrepreneur, or working with clients, I approach every interaction with the same principles: listen, adapt, and build trust.

Equestrian culture also reinforces the importance of hard work and attention to detail. In my real estate business, understanding the intricacies of equestrian properties—from the layout of stables to the condition of riding trails—has helped me provide unmatched service to my clients. Leadership, like horsemanship, is about showing up consistently and working in harmony with those around you.

What challenges have you encountered as a nonprofit leader, and how have you navigated them?

One of the biggest challenges has been securing resources and buy-in for long-term initiatives. Nonprofits often face a cycle of limited funding and high expectations, which can make it difficult to plan strategically. Early on, I realized the importance of building strong partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and other organizations. Collaboration has been a game-changer for Palmetto Pathways.

Another challenge has been balancing innovation with tradition. Aiken is a community that values its roots, so introducing new ideas requires sensitivity and communication. I’ve found that involving stakeholders early and framing change as a way to enhance, rather than replace, our traditions makes a huge difference.

What role does sustainability play in your professional and personal life?

Sustainability is central to everything I do. Professionally, it’s about ensuring that the growth we pursue in Aiken is thoughtful and enduring. Whether it’s working with clients to find energy-efficient homes or organizing eco-friendly tourism initiatives through Palmetto Pathways, I’m committed to solutions that benefit both people and the planet.

On a personal level, sustainability is a lifestyle choice. My family and I live on a small farm where we grow some of our own food, compost, and prioritize local sourcing whenever possible. These practices remind me daily of the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on the world around us. I believe sustainability isn’t just about environmental responsibility; it’s about creating a balanced and fulfilling way of life.

How has your work impacted Aiken’s small business community?

Supporting small businesses is one of the core missions of Palmetto Pathways. Over the years, we’ve launched initiatives like mentorship programs, grant opportunities, and collaborative marketing campaigns that have directly benefited local entrepreneurs. I’ve always believed that when small businesses succeed, the whole community thrives.

One example I’m particularly proud of is our annual “Harvest to Market” festival. It’s not just an event; it’s a platform for local artisans, farmers, and business owners to showcase their talents and connect with a broader audience. Seeing these businesses grow and flourish has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally.

What advice would you give to someone looking to make a difference in their community?

Start by identifying what you’re passionate about and where you can have the greatest impact. Making a difference doesn’t have to mean starting a large-scale project; it can be as simple as volunteering, mentoring, or organizing a small event. The key is to take action and stay consistent.

Another piece of advice is to listen. Every community has its own unique challenges and opportunities, and the best way to understand them is by engaging with the people who live there. Collaboration and humility go a long way in building trust and creating meaningful change.

What do you hope Aiken will look like in the next 10 years?

In 10 years, I hope Aiken remains a place where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously. I’d like to see our downtown continue to thrive as a hub for culture and commerce, with more opportunities for small businesses to grow. I also hope we continue to be a destination for equestrian enthusiasts, with expanded trails, events, and resources that celebrate our heritage.

On a broader scale, I hope Aiken becomes a model for sustainability and community-driven development. If we can maintain our unique identity while embracing thoughtful progress, we’ll not only thrive locally but also inspire other communities to do the same.

What inspires you to keep pushing forward, even when faced with setbacks?

The people of Aiken inspire me every day. Whether it’s the resilience of a small business owner, the dedication of a volunteer, or the enthusiasm of a young rider at a local horse show, I’m constantly reminded of why I do what I do.

Setbacks are inevitable, but I see them as opportunities to learn and grow. My family also plays a big role in keeping me grounded and motivated. Knowing that the work I’m doing today will leave a better community for my kids and future generations gives me a sense of purpose that drives me forward.

If you could sum up your philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?

“Build with purpose, honor the past, and always leave a place better than you found it.”

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