Affordable Upstate Brings on New Chief of Staff

Affordable Upstate, a real estate investment focused on workforce and affordable housing, has added Lauren McGlamery to the team as its chief of staff. 

McGlamery is a relationship-driven operations and engagement professional with more than 10 years of experience supporting leadership, managing cross-functional initiatives, and driving stakeholder engagement. She earned a Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina in 2013 and a Bachelor of Arts in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina in 2011.

Most recently, she served as engagement director at Build Carolina, where she partnered closely with the CEO to lead stakeholder engagement, communications, marketing strategy, and business development efforts. She also built and managed systems for partner and community engagement, led events and digital programs, and supported organizational growth through coordinated, high-impact initiatives.

In addition, McGlamery spent nearly eight years with Gateway House, Inc., serving as both clinical director and program director. There, she collaborated with executive leadership to oversee operations, manage staff and programs, and coordinate with board members, funders, and community partners to advance the organization's mission and impact.

“Lauren is bringing a wealth of experience to the table,” said Mario Brown, CEO of Affordable Upstate. “She has spent her career building relationships, strengthening organizations, and serving communities. Those qualities align perfectly with the AU mission.”

Beyond her professional roles, McGlamery remains actively engaged in the technology and startup community. She currently supports YERP, an early-stage startup, by contributing to community growth initiatives and helping people connect through shared outdoor adventure.

Throughout her career, she has consistently been involved in community-focused efforts, including event organization, volunteer initiatives, and partnership development across nonprofit, startup, and civic organizations throughout the Greenville area. 

"Her extensive experience building partnerships, supporting organizational growth, and fostering community engagement will be a tremendous asset as we continue to serve the Upstate,” said Brown.