CHARLESTON — Shannon Verastequi didn't intend to make history when she took a new job in South Carolina.

On Aug. 6, the nearly 30-year U.S. Postal Service veteran became the first woman to hold Charleston's top postmaster role since the service began in 1775. Verastequi called the promotion a "great privilege" as she stood before USPS colleagues and community members inside the main post office at 83 Broad St.

Moving forward, she will oversee all mail operations and staff in the city.

"It's a reflection of the progress that we've made and the work that remains to uplift, to serve and to lead with integrity," she said. "I hope it also serves as inspiration to the many women across our workforce who are forging their own paths."

Verastequi began her journey in Kalamazoo, Mich., as a mail

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