City of Conway Named 2026 Finalist for All-America City
The City of Conway has been named one of just 20 finalists nationwide for the prestigious 2026 All-America City Award, presented by the National Civic League. To commemorate this milestone, the city has released a special “Conway 250” All-America City Finalist logo, symbolizing Conway’s rich history, strong community spirit, and commitment to shaping the future.
“This year's All-America City finalists remind us that the strength of democracy depends on engaged residents who are invested in shaping the future of the places they call home. As the nation marks 250 years since its founding, these communities are proving that civic health is improved block by block, through trust, belonging, and the collective power of people working together.”
— Doug Linkhart, President, National Civic League
For more than 75 years, the All-America City Award has recognized communities that lead through civic engagement, collaboration, and innovation. Conway’s selection as a finalist highlights the City’s ongoing efforts to strengthen connections between residents, local organizations, and government while fostering a shared vision for continued growth.
“For the past decade, the City of Conway has made it a priority to celebrate multicultural and diverse events while continuing to expand facilities, playgrounds and programming that serve children and adults with additional needs. Being named a finalist is an honor, and we look forward to sharing our story on a national stage.”
The 2026 finalists include:
Bowling Green-Warren County, Kentucky; Chelsea, Massachusetts; Conway, South Carolina; Franklin, Tennessee; Grand Island, Nebraska; Harlingen, Texas; Huntsville, Alabama; Jenks, Oklahoma; Monrovia, California; Montgomery, Alabama; Morrisville, North Carolina; Norfolk, Virginia; North Charleston, South Carolina; Opa-locka, Florida; River Forest, Illinois; Riviera Beach, Florida; Roanoke, Virginia; Stow, Ohio; Wichita, Kansas; and Woodburn, Oregon.
Finalists were selected through a competitive, expert-led review process evaluating each community across six key areas: shared vision, civic engagement, inclusiveness and equity, collaboration, innovation, and impact. City leaders are not aware of any previous selection of Conway as an All-America City finalist, and no city in Horry County has ever been named an All-America City winner.
“This is a BIG moment for Conway. Being named a finalist for the All-America City Award reflects what makes Conway different, a community shaped by resilience and creativity, all rooted in a strong sense of belonging. It is the result of collaboration between our residents, local partners, and City team working intentionally to build trust, strengthen connections, and create lasting impact.”
— Mary Catherine Hyman, Deputy City Administrator, City of Conway
City of Conway representatives will travel to Denver, Colorado, June 26–28, where finalist communities will present their work to a panel of nationally recognized civic leaders. The event brings together residents, nonprofits, businesses, and government leaders to share ideas, participate in workshops, and highlight the initiatives that strengthen local democracy. The event will conclude with a ceremony announcing the 2026 All-America Cities.
Representing communities from 16 states and a wide range of population sizes, this year’s finalists share a common goal: ensuring residents have a voice in shaping the future of their community.
Learn more about the All-America City Award:
https://www.
Learn about past winners:
https://www.
