Nancy Ragonese is a dynamic community leader and entrepreneur from Aiken, South Carolina. Born and raised in the heart of equestrian country, Nancy’s upbringing on a family-owned farm fostered her passion for horses, community, and sustainable living. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina, Nancy has seamlessly combined her academic expertise with her personal passions to leave an indelible mark on her hometown.
As the founder of Palmetto Pathways, a nonprofit organization dedicated to sustainable tourism and small business support, Nancy has pioneered initiatives that celebrate the Midlands’ unique cultural and natural heritage. She is also the co-owner of Realty Group, a boutique real estate firm specializing in historic properties and equestrian estates. Nancy’s professional endeavors reflect her commitment to preserving Aiken’s charm while fostering innovation and growth.
A mother, equestrian, and community advocate, Nancy Ragonese’s multifaceted career embodies her belief in the power of local connections to drive meaningful change. In this exclusive interview, Nancy shares her thoughts on community building, sustainability, and her deep ties to Aiken’s equestrian heritage.
What inspired you to start Palmetto Pathways, and how has it evolved since its inception?
The idea for Palmetto Pathways came to me after years of witnessing how much untapped potential our region held. Aiken is this incredible blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, but I felt we could do more to highlight these assets in a way that benefited both locals and visitors. I wanted to create something that would strengthen our community economically while also preserving its charm and heritage.
When we launched in 2010, our focus was primarily on sustainable tourism—promoting eco-friendly practices among local businesses and encouraging visitors to explore Aiken’s natural landscapes. Over time, the mission expanded. Today, we’re also deeply involved in small business mentorship, workforce development, and organizing signature events like the “Harvest to Market” festival. It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch Palmetto Pathways grow into a cornerstone for community connection and economic innovation.
Aiken is famous for its equestrian culture. How has this influenced your personal and professional journey?
Horses are woven into the fabric of my life. Growing up on a farm in Aiken, I’ve been riding for as long as I can remember. The discipline and patience I learned from horseback riding have shaped so much of who I am today—as a businesswoman, a community advocate, and even a parent.
Professionally, Aiken’s equestrian culture has been a significant influence. At Realty Group, we specialize in equestrian estates, and my firsthand experience with horses gives me an edge when understanding what these clients need. It’s not just about finding a property with enough land; it’s about understanding the stables, the soil, the water access—all the little details that make or break a great equestrian property. My connection to this culture allows me to serve my clients authentically and effectively.
What challenges have you faced as a female entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and how have you overcome them?
Real estate and nonprofit leadership are both spaces where women have historically had to work twice as hard to earn recognition. Early in my career, I often found myself being underestimated or dismissed, particularly when I advocated for new ideas or unconventional approaches.
I’ve learned to let my work speak for itself. When people see the results—whether it’s a successful property sale or a well-attended community event—it shifts the narrative. I’ve also surrounded myself with a strong network of mentors and peers who uplift and challenge me. Over time, I’ve come to see these challenges as opportunities to prove what’s possible when you combine hard work, authenticity, and a clear vision.
What is your vision for sustainable tourism in Aiken, and how do you see it impacting the community in the long term?
My vision for sustainable tourism in Aiken is rooted in balance. We have to find a way to invite visitors to experience our town without compromising what makes it special. That means protecting our natural resources, supporting local businesses, and maintaining the character of our historic districts.
In the long term, I see sustainable tourism as a way to create a more resilient local economy. When we promote eco-friendly practices and invest in homegrown talent, we’re building a foundation for lasting prosperity. It’s also about pride. When residents see their community thriving in a way that aligns with their values, it fosters a sense of ownership and belonging.
As someone deeply involved in real estate, what trends are you noticing in the market, particularly in a place like Aiken?
One of the biggest trends I’ve noticed is the growing demand for properties that offer a blend of modern amenities and rural charm. Aiken attracts a unique demographic—people who want the serenity of country living without sacrificing convenience. This has made equestrian estates and historic properties incredibly popular.
Another trend is the rise in remote work, which has drawn more out-of-state buyers to Aiken. People are realizing they can live anywhere, and many are choosing communities like ours because of the quality of life we offer. However, with increased demand comes challenges like affordability and inventory shortages. It’s a delicate balance, but I see it as an opportunity to innovate and adapt.
What role does community play in your life and career?
Community is everything to me. It’s the heart of everything I do, from my work with Palmetto Pathways to my real estate ventures. I’ve always believed that the strength of a community lies in its connections—between people, businesses, and the environment.
On a personal level, community is where I find support and inspiration. Whether it’s volunteering with local organizations or simply chatting with neighbors at the farmers’ market, those interactions fuel me. On a professional level, my success is tied directly to the trust and relationships I’ve built within the community.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to make a difference in their communities?
Start small but think big. You don’t need to have everything figured out on day one. Focus on building genuine relationships and identifying the unique needs of your community. From there, take actionable steps to address those needs, and don’t be afraid to adapt along the way.
Also, stay true to your values. In my experience, the most impactful businesses and organizations are those that operate with authenticity and integrity. When your work aligns with your values, people notice, and they’ll support you because they believe in what you’re doing.
How do you balance your professional ambitions with your personal life?
Balance is something I’m constantly working on, and to be honest, it’s not always easy. I wear a lot of hats—business owner, nonprofit leader, mother, wife—and each role is important to me.
One thing that helps is being intentional about my time. I’ve learned to set boundaries and prioritize what truly matters. For example, I carve out time for family dinners, no matter how busy my day has been. I also make time for myself, whether it’s going for a ride or simply enjoying a quiet morning on the farm. It’s about finding those moments that ground you and keep you connected to what’s important.
What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope my legacy is one of connection and empowerment. I want people to remember me as someone who brought the community together, who saw potential in others and helped them realize it. Whether it’s through Palmetto Pathways, Realty Group, or my volunteer work, I hope I’ve contributed to making Aiken a place where people feel proud to live and work.
Ultimately, I want my kids and future generations to see that you can make a difference in the world—starting right where you are.