Cory J’von Adams

His job: President, Boykin Contracting Inc.

Age: 36

Family: wife, Sharon; children, Erin, 6; and Javon, 5 months

Education: Bachelor’s degree, electrical engineering technology, South Carolina State; master’s degree, business administration, Webster University

Community involvement: City of Columbia Construction Award, 2005; Fastest Growing Company in South Carolina, 2004 and 2005; vice president, trustee, Bethlehem Baptist Church; member, EngenuitySC board; past board member, Columbia Chamber of Commerce

From his nomination: “At the age of 28, he started Boykin Contracting Inc., a minority-owned general and electrical contracting business which has grown to be one of the most successful businesses in the state.” — Thomas Brock Sr., Boykin Contracting

What’s the difference, for you, between business and personal success? “Being the first person in my paternal family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree can only begin to describe my view on personal success. … I look forward to financial stability and a positive legacy. It is said that, ‘You are only as good as the company you keep (and that you are) remembered by your work.’ Your work should always speak for you.”

Do you live by any mantra or saying? “1. Don’t fret over the little things. Think big. 2. Live life to the fullest — as if it would never end. 3. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. 4. Don’t worry (about) falling down because effort and hope will get you up.”

Have you ever failed at something? How did you recover? “As a high school junior, I was presented the opportunity to obtain a scholarship to a well-established university. Due to personal family obstacles and a competitive class of students, I lost my chance. Through perseverance and determination, I did get accepted to another university and received a partial scholarship from the Army. I would not allow myself to get despondent or become depressed. Instead, I pushed forward and looked for other avenues.”

If you could cure the ills of the world, where would you start? “I would start with depression, anxiety and poverty. In my assessment, depression and poverty go hand in hand. People who are dealt unfortunate circumstances are not only left searching for answers or a way to cope but find that depression, and other illnesses … become the controlling force in that individual’s life.”

Right now, people are worrying about the economy. What are you optimistic about? “I am excited about global change and unity. For too long, we have isolated and segregated ourselves in our thinking, choice of friendships and communities.”