We are proud to spotlight Lillie Sweet Strickland, Class of 2020, who is building an exciting career in marketing and real estate in Charleston, South Carolina.

After graduating from Stratford, Lillie Sweet attended the University of Alabama, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration in May 2024 with a major in Marketing and a minor in Advertising.

For the past two years, Lillie Sweet has served as the Marketing Manager for the Andy Bovender Team with Compass in Charleston. In her role, no two days look the same. From creating social media content and designing marketing materials to helping with events and finding new ways to connect with clients, she has enjoyed being part of a fast-paced and people-centered industry.

Recently, Lillie Sweet decided to take the next step in her career by pursuing her real estate license. She is currently onboarding and shadowing agents as she continues to learn the industry while also using the marketing skills she has developed over the past two years.

Her interest in real estate began after her junior year of college, when she interned with the Erin Krueger Team, a successful all-female real estate team with Compass in Nashville. That experience opened her eyes to a career path she had not seriously considered before. Through that connection, she later learned of an opportunity with the Andy Bovender Team, interviewed the following week, accepted the position, and moved to Charleston.

“It truly feels like a domino effect that all started with that internship,” Lillie Sweet said. “At the time, I had no idea how much that opportunity would shape my future, but looking back, I can clearly see God’s hand in every step of the journey.”

That experience taught Lillie Sweet the importance of building relationships, saying yes to new opportunities, and taking internships seriously. She also encourages young professionals to trust the process, even when they are still finding their confidence.

“I’ve realized that being younger isn’t a disadvantage,” Lillie Sweet said. “It gives me a fresh perspective, a willingness to learn, and the opportunity to grow alongside some of the best professionals in the industry.”

When reflecting on her time at Stratford, Lillie Sweet shared that one of the biggest lessons she has carried with her is the importance of having people who believe in you, especially during moments when you may not fully believe in yourself.

She credits many Stratford educators with helping her build that confidence, including Dr. Katz, Mr. Ethridge, Alex Hill, Ms. Lanier, and many others who encouraged her, challenged her, and helped her see what she was capable of.

“Their encouragement taught me that sometimes all it takes is one person believing in you to help you believe in yourself,” Lillie Sweet said.

As she continues to grow in real estate, Lillie Sweet’s advice to others is simple: find a great team, put yourself out there, and trust the process.

Her story is a wonderful reminder that relationships matter, opportunities can come from unexpected places, and sometimes the first step is simply being willing to say yes.

Stratford is proud of Lillie Sweet and excited to see all that is ahead for her in Charleston.