Staff
John M. Truluck, SCCED
Director
John M. Truluck leads the economic development team with dedication and experience. He was named Director of Dorchester County Economic Development in 2014. Previously, he led industrial recruitment efforts for Clarendon County, where he also once served as Emergency Services Director. In his first four years with Dorchester County, John played a pivotal role in the creation of more than 1,600 jobs and nearly $300 million in capital investments.
In an effort to strengthen Dorchester County’s competitive status among others in the region, John spearheaded the creation of Advance Dorchester, a 501 (C) (3), designed to raise funds from private sector investors. These funds are allocated to four key pillars that are instrumental in successful economic development: marketing; product development; prospect development; and workforce development.
John earned a bachelor’s in business administration, as well as a master’s of public administration, from the University of South Carolina. He is a South Carolina Certified Economic Developer and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill’s Basic Economic Development program. He is a native of Lake City, SC, but he and his family now proudly call Summerville home.
Michelle McDonald
Deputy Director
As Deputy Director of Dorchester County Economic Development, Michelle McDonald leads all new business projects and manages incoming prospects. She serves as the primary point of contact for site selectors and coordinates closely with regional and state allies, including the South Carolina Department of Commerce, to position Dorchester County as a premier destination for business growth.
Michelle brings over 15 years of experience in workforce development and consulting across government, nonprofit, and private industry sectors. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Winthrop University and a master’s degree in business administration from The Citadel. Prior to this role, Michelle oversaw existing industry and workforce development initiatives for Dorchester County, helping to strengthen the local talent pipeline and support business retention and expansion.
Anna McSwain
Marketing and Investor Relations Administrator
McSwain guides marketing and communication efforts to continue the facilitation of new business and economic expansion while supporting the vitality of existing industry in the county. Additionally, she will engage with current and prospective investors while working toward the advancement of DCED’s strategic initiatives.
McSwain brings over 15 years of marketing experience as well as a wealth of knowledge in corporate relations, non-profits, and development. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Charleston Southern University where she also previously oversaw athletic marketing and corporate sponsors. McSwain is a skilled photographer and longtime Summerville resident.
Gordon Rooney
Project Manager, Existing Industry& Workforce
As Existing Industry and Workforce Project Manager, Gordon Rooney leads efforts to support Dorchester County’s existing business community and strengthen the local workforce. He serves as the primary liaison to employers, facilitates retention and expansion strategies, and collaborates with regional partners to align workforce initiatives with industry needs.
Rooney brings over a decade of experience in local government and public affairs, with a background in business retention, community investment, and public-private partnerships. He holds a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Michigan and a Master of Business Operational Excellence from The Ohio State University.
Amy Dixon
Administrative Assistant
Amy is an essential member of the Economic Development team. She is responsible for overseeing all financial duties for both public and private budgets, supporting the Economic Development mission with efficient office management, and professional and courteous stakeholder relations. Prior to joining this office, she served the County as Claims Assistant for Risk Management and Safety.
As a native of Dorchester County, and 18-year County employee, Amy brings a wealth of institutional and area knowledge to her position. To further her contributions to this office, she has completed the SC Department of Commerce’s Economic Development 101 course and is currently enrolled in a more in-depth study of Economic Development.