Hope Blackley
Hope Blackley began her professional career with the United Way of the Piedmont, Village Partnership as a preschool teacher. From there, she joined the 7th Circuit Solicitor’s Office as a child victim advocate where she assisted and prepared children for criminal court working under the direction of former solicitor, Trey Gowdy.In 2004, South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford appointed her as the Crime Victims’ Ombudsman for the state where she investigated complaints of crime victims against criminal and juvenile justice organizations. Ms. Blackley also directed the Governor’s Office of Victim Services Education & Certification (OVSEC) where she helped write legislation creating this office. Ms. Blackley created and implemented training for those who served crime victims through OVSEC in South Carolina.
In 2010, Ms. Blackley was appointed Spartanburg County Clerk of Court, where she managed the day-to-day operations of the courthouse and court system, as well as supervising 50 employees.
In January 2019 until early September 2021, Ms. Blackley joined Congressman William Timmons office as his District Director.
Ms. Blackley is the President & CEO of Hope Consulting, LLC where she helps others grow in the professional aspects of their career, management, partnerships, and being leaders of change in their communities.
Hope is the founder and owner of the Institute for Youth Justice. She currently serves on the Mary Black Foundation Board as Chairwoman for 2020-2021, the South Carolina Judicial Merit Selection Commissioner Board, and the Hub City Writers Project Board.