Thad Daise
Vice Chair
Thaddeus Daise is a native of Edisto Island, in the low country of South Carolina. He retired from the National Education Association (NEA) after spending over 28 years as an education organizer and legislative and political specialist. Starting with The South Carolina Education Association, then on to the North Carolina Association of Educators before moving on to the NEA, he organized, led and managed organizing campaigns in over 20 states across the country and Puerto Rico.
Thad’s interest in African American history started while listening to his maternal grandparents’ stories they learned from their ancestors. His interest was fueled by his parents’ efforts to “keep Edisto, Edisto.” He was taught to keep and maintain their family property which has been in his family since 1904. Thad was also taught to do the same for Edisto Island and the surrounding communities. He was able to focus his love of history and preservation while volunteering with the Edisto Island Open Land Trust where he served as a member of the board of directors and as vice chair.
Thad’s introduction to the South Carolina African American Heritage Commission came about after meeting a friend of a friend who serves on the SC Archives and History Commission. As it turned out, he and the commissioner met previously at a home building site near his family’s property. Later, that commissioner recommended him for SCAAHC. Since being appointed, Thad has been able to serve the state of South Carolina by bringing more awareness of the historical sites and contributions of African Americans to this state. His most treasured moment has been working to get a historical marker for First Baptist Church on Edisto Island. It is the oldest church structure on Edisto Island and where his father pastored. He said, “First Baptist Church on Edisto Island is a place we should all recognize and celebrate for its contributions to the history of Edisto Island, the lowcountry, and South Carolina.”
He has been appointed to a second term on the SCAAHC and has served as treasurer and is currently serving as vice chair.