Andrea Payment, Director of Development and Community Engagement

Andrea Payment is an outdoor advocate, travel enthusiast, and furniture transformer with a Marketing degree from Charleston Southern University. Whether hiking or biking the scenic trails throughout the Carolinas or exploring the rugged terrain out west, Andrea feels just as much at home in nature as she does in the heart of her community.

Her unique journey has equipped her with a dynamic skill set in problem-solving and relationship-building. From running a children’s theatre to founding an outdoor music festival and kids' summer camp—both still thriving today—Andrea has always had a passion for bringing people together with purpose. She has raised vital funds for children facing speech, hearing, and learning challenges, as well as those in the foster care system. Her career has also included working alongside remarkable senior adults, educating communities about neuromuscular diseases, and even rallying non-bowlers to join a six-week league.

Andrea divides her time between family  and friends, loudly and obnoxiously cheering on her USC Gamecocks, and being actively involved in her church. She’s especially passionate about introducing kids of all ages to the beauty and importance of the Reedy River in Greenville—through education, advocacy, and conservation.

“This is our river—let’s work to make it last.

Q&A with Andrea

Featured in the May 2025 Reedy Recap staff Highlight

Q: What is your favorite outdoor activity?

A: I have two favorites: hiking new trails and cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks. I’ve hiked the rugged Angel’s Landing and the canyons and arches of the Fiery Furnace, but Half Dome, El Capitan and many others are still on my bucket list. And nothing beats Saturdays at Williams-Brice Stadium in the fall—surrounded by loud, proud, and slightly Cocky Gamecock fans!

Q: What has been your most fun part-time job?
A:  I once worked on a kiwi farm. While I wouldn’t call it the most fun, it definitely left the biggest impact and the longest-lasting memories. To this day, one of my best friends and I still laugh (and grumble) about that hot, dirty, sweaty four-hour shift in the fields. Enough said.

Q: What is your favorite place on the Reedy River?
A: Cedar Falls Park is my favorite spot on the Reedy River. The waterfall provides a stunning natural backdrop, the riverbank is perfect for photos or relaxing with a good book, and the old mill and cotton gin add a unique historic charm anytime I visit