Jay Bender is a prominent South Carolina media lawyer, serving as the long-time attorney for the South Carolina Press Association (SCPA) and its member newspapers, specializing in First Amendment, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and media law issues, offering legal guidance on open records, court access, defamation, and reporter's shield protections, and is considered a leading authority on state FOIA laws. He is also a former professor at the University of South Carolina and a past lobbyist for SCPA, instrumental in strengthening state open government laws. 

• "Mr. Knozit": Best known for his iconic role as "Mr. Knozit," a beloved children’s program that earned him a national IRIS Award.
• Broadcasting Icon: A staple of WIS-TV for decades, serving as an anchor, weathercaster, and personality.
• Major Honors: Recipient of the Order of the Palmetto (SC’s highest civilian honor) and an inductee into the South Carolina Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
• Military Connection: Honored as an honorary retired member of the Fort Jackson 282nd Army "Victory" Band.

Community Impact

• Humanitarian Work: Recognized by the Humane Society and remembered for his tireless support of local organizations and charities like the Harvest Hope Food Bank.
• Tributes: Received high praise from notable figures including Governor Henry McMaster and NBC’s Craig Melvin, who called him a mentor and a "voice of a generation."