A former mayor of Beaufort, South Carolina, is set to receive the state’s highest honor from Shannon Erickson, a state representative.

Billy Keyserling will receive the Palmetto Award for his dedication to public service for over 50 years.

Keyserling’s career spans significant roles, having worked on Capitol Hill, served as a state legislator, and a city councilman. He also led Beaufort for 12 years and currently operates two non-profit organizations.

Keyserling told that he’s received many awards in his lifetime, but this is one of the highest honors.

“I’m thrilled about this recognition. It’s an honor and quite humbling,” Keyserling expressed. “I’m grateful to Stacy Applegate, who, without my knowledge, initiated a campaign to persuade Representative Erickson with letters from colleagues I’ve worked with over the last five decades. This has led to my selection for the award. I feel honored, humbled, and deeply thankful to those I’ve collaborated with throughout the years.”

Keyserling said he chose to have the award presented at city hall, because that’s the place he called his second home for many years and did some of his best work.

The award will be presented on Tuesday, June 10 at Beaufort’s city council meeting.