In a remarkable ascent through the ranks of education and finance, John Li, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Charter Institute at Erskine, has quickly become a transformative figure within the charter school sector in South Carolina. With a decade of financial experience and a commitment to community engagement, Li’s impact grows with each passing year of his young career. Recently honored as one of Columbia Business Monthly’s Best and Brightest under 35 and featured on the cover, his journey reflects a passion for education and financial stewardship coupled with a strong dedication to service.
Early Influences and Educational Journey
Born in the United States and raised in China, John Li cultivated a unique global perspective that would influence his future endeavors. Returning to the U.S. for high school, he graduated in 2013 after serving as a state officer in the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA). His exemplary leadership and academic achievements earned him the prestigious Palmetto Fellows Scholarship, paving the way for a successful collegiate career.
At the University of South Carolina, John pursued a degree in International Business and Global Supply Chain Management, alongside minors in Chinese Language and Business Administration. His involvement in Collegiate DECA and participation as a player on the Gamecock Rugby team honed his leadership skills and established a solid foundation for his future roles in financial leadership.
Steering Financial Success at the Charter Institute at Erskine
John’s journey with the Charter Institute at Erskine began in 2018. Starting as the Assistant Director of Finance, he rose to the esteemed position of Chief Financial Officer by September 2022. In this vital role, he oversees the financial operations of a statewide charter school district that serves approximately 30,000 students and manages over $300 million in financial resources.
Under John’s leadership, the finance office has flourished. He has established crucial budgeting, financial planning, and auditing processes that underpin the Institute’s success. His dedication to transparency and fiscal responsibility has resulted in back-to-back clean audits, further solidifying the Institute’s reputation for financial efficiency and transparency. John’s strategic formulation of financial policies supports the organization’s mission and ensures its long-term sustainability.
Beyond financial oversight, John is an active member of several key committees, including the Operations Committee and the Leadership Cabinet. Additionally, his involvement in approving new charter applications has significantly expanded educational opportunities for countless students across the state.
Advocacy and Legislative Impact
At just 23 years old, John began testifying on behalf of charter schools and educational funding before the Governor’s Office and the South Carolina General Assembly. His strategic insights have been instrumental in shaping the financial framework supporting charter schools throughout the state, even resulting in legislative change that furthered South Carolina’s school choice movement.
John’s accolades are extensive, including the Next Generation of Afterschool Leaders Award from the National Afterschool Association and the title of Coach of the Year from the Charter Institute at Erskine. His recognition as one of the Best and Brightest under 35 adds to his growing list of accomplishments.
Fostering Youth’s Passion for Archery
Beyond his professional role, John is a passionate advocate for youth archery. As a certified instructor for the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) and USA Archery, he dedicates his time to teaching young archers through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
John established the War Eagle Archery program at Gray Collegiate Academy, leading his team to compete in both state and national championships. His mentorship has profoundly impacted his students, with one participant, Lillian Grantham, remarking, “Coach Li brought back my love for the sport of archery. He teaches archers life lessons on and off the line.”
Leadership Philosophy: A Commitment to Service
John’s leadership philosophy revolves around serving others and leading by example. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, stating that a leader should provide credit for successes and take responsibility for failures. He cites Confucius as a guiding principle – “Do what you love, love what you do.”
When reflecting on what advice he would give his younger self, John stresses the importance of perseverance and humility: “Life is too short. Take the opportunities available to you and don’t be afraid to start from the bottom. Mistakes are part of the learning process.”
A Respected Leader Committed to Community
John’s profound contributions to education and youth archery have garnered him widespread respect. Alan Buck, Board Treasurer at East Point Academy, commends John’s “intellect, compassion, sincerity, and drive,” noting that his ethical leadership and combination of skills are remarkable for someone so young.
As the Charter Institute at Erskine continues to thrive under John’s guidance, he remains steadfast in his mission to support students and schools, ensuring financial integrity and expanding educational opportunities. John Li’s legacy of excellence promises to inspire future generations of leaders in education and beyond.
