Flock and Rally’s CEO, Merritt McNeely, Named as a 2025 Most Influential Leader
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Oct. 6 2025) – Flock and Rally, a women-owned, full-service communications and marketing agency based in Columbia, South Carolina, is celebrating two major recognitions: CEO Merritt McNeely has been named to the 2025 list of Most Influential Leaders, and the firm has been recognized as a 2025 Empowering Women award honoree.
The Most Influential Leaders award honors leaders across South Carolina who exemplify exceptional leadership, vision and civic engagement while driving economic growth and innovation. McNeely, who was promoted to CEO of Flock and Rally in 2022, was recognized for her two decades of professional leadership across marketing, tourism, economic development and nonprofit sectors, and for driving the firm’s growth to serve larger, institutional clients while fostering a workplace culture of collaboration and empowerment.
“I believe that great leadership is about lifting people up, building strong relationships and creating meaningful work that makes a difference in our communities,” says McNeely. “I’m proud of our incredible team, our clients and the impact we’re making together. Leading Flock and Rally is an honor, and I’m excited for the growth and opportunities ahead.”
In addition, Flock and Rally was named a 2025 Empowering Women award winner. The award celebrates organizations that have demonstrated measurable efforts to support and elevate women in the workplace and beyond. Founded and led by women, Flock and Rally was recognized for its record of female leadership, mentorship, professional development programs, and its culture of inclusion and equity.
“Our team has always prioritized our commitment to creating pathways for women to thrive in business,” says Debi Schadel, co-founding partner. “Being recognized with the Empowering Women award, alongside Merritt’s honor as one of South Carolina’s Most Influential Leaders, reflects the heart of Flock and Rally and the women who have shaped it from day one.”
Since 2010, the agency has grown into a trusted partner for clients across industries, including lifestyle, tourism, technology, economic development, higher education, real estate, government and the nonprofit sector. The firm has earned more than 100 industry awards and continues to build a reputation for high-impact, creative campaigns.
About Flock and Rally: Integrated Communications & Marketing
Founded in 2010, Flock and Rally is a full-service, women-owned creative agency based in Columbia, South Carolina. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2025, the firm has built a reputation for integrating branding, public relations, marketing, traditional advertising, digital advertising, social media and more into strategic campaigns. Its diverse client base ranges from regional nonprofits to large-scale businesses across South Carolina and beyond. Serving industry sectors from lifestyle and tourism to business, technology, real estate, economic development and more, Flock and Rally’s mission is to rally the community around great ideas.