Naida Rutherford, is an elected official in Richland County, Columbia, SC. She graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor degree in biology. She went on to nursing school, completing her Masters in Nursing and becoming a nationally board certified nurse practitioner. She worked in healthcare for 15 years with expertise in wounds and adult geriatric acute care. Her electoral win as Coroner in 2020 made her the first woman, first medical professional and first person of color to hold the title of Coroner in the 173 year history of the office. She has been honored locally and nationally for her achievements by the University of South Carolina, Benedict College, Essence and Pepsi. Ms. Rutherford is a motivational speaker, sharing her story of overcoming a negative foster care upbringing, poverty and homelessness to youth groups, executives and corporations. She is a mom to two young men, ages 12 and 13, an active member of the South Carolina Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Review Committee, Well Partners Advisory Board, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America.