When asked what he enjoys about his work, Van says, “I most enjoy the personal interaction with county leaders and employees of the counties we represent. There is a certain intangible gratification that comes from the bonds formed with individuals and seeing the impact you can have in bettering their day.” His favorite quote is:
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
Van is a member of the OSHA World Trade Center Emergency Response Team and serves as a council member for the SC Law Enforcement Accreditation Council and Clemson University’s SC Local Technical Assistance Program Advisory Board. Van has his Certified Public Manager designation and is a graduate of Newberry College.
His teammates describe him as wickedly funny, caring, and having a practical and analytical approach to risk management that is a great asset to all South Carolina counties. Van relishes the time he spends with his wife, Melissa, and children, Bryce and Harper, while also enjoying boating, riding motorcycles, traveling, hunting, fishing, and attending sporting events. He coaches youth baseball and softball and serves as a member of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the United Methodist Volunteer Emergency Response Team, and the Blythewood Masonic Lodge.