Horton is recipient of leadership award

Destination North Myrtle Beach is proud to announce Ed Horton of Anderson Brothers Bank as the 2026 recipient of the Senator Dick Elliott Excellence in Leadership Award.

This distinguished award is presented to an individual or organization that exemplifies the leadership qualities, character, and dedication to selfless service that the late Senator Dick Elliott embodied throughout his life. The 2026 recipient was selected by Destination North Myrtle Beach Board Chair Whitney Prince of Boardwalk Billy’s.

Ed Horton has served the North Myrtle Beach community with distinction for decades, demonstrating a deep commitment to civic leadership, economic development, and service to others. His leadership and volunteerism have touched countless organizations and initiatives throughout the region, including Destination North Myrtle Beach, the North Myrtle Beach Parks and Recreation Commission, the North Myrtle Beach Planning Commission, the Rotary Club of Little River, North Strand Community Shelter, and many other local efforts that have strengthened the community.

Horton joined Anderson Brothers Bank in April 2005 as Business Development Officer for the North Myrtle Beach branch. From the start, he brought with him decades of experience in real estate, finance, development, and project management, along with a strong understanding of the people and businesses that make North Myrtle Beach thrive. In 2007, he was promoted to Vice President, continuing to expand the bank’s presence and deepen its relationships throughout the community. Today, he serves as Vice President and Area Executive for Anderson Brothers Bank’s North Myrtle Beach office, where he has helped guide the bank’s growth while maintaining the personal service and community focus that define community banking.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Horton has held numerous leadership roles across the Grand Strand. He served as Chairman of the Board for the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce in both 2008–2009 and 2018–2019, and also served several terms as Treasurer and as Chairman of the Public Policy/Economic Development Committee. He played a key role in leading the Building North Myrtle Beach Initiative from 2010 through 2015. His community service also includes serving as President of the Rotary Club of Little River, where he was recognized as Rotarian of the Year twice, and as a board member of the North Strand Community Shelter, where he continues to serve.

While Horton’s professional and civic accomplishments are many, those who know him best would say his proudest achievement is his family. Ed and his wife, Gail Parks Horton, have been married for 53 years and have long made North Myrtle Beach their home. Together they have built a family that remains the center of Ed’s life. They are proud parents of their son, John, and daughter-in-law, Emily, and devoted grandparents to Parker and Maggie, who are truly the pride and joy of their lives.

The award will be presented during the Seaside Soirée Business Awards on Tuesday, March 24, at 21 Main Events. The evening will begin with a social hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and the awards presentation.

For more information about Destination North Myrtle Beach and the Seaside Soirée Business Awards, or to purchase tickets, call 843-281-2662.