Dr. Lori Heafner Appointed as New President of Horry-Georgetown Technical College
In a significant development for higher education in South Carolina, the Area Commission of Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) has officially announced the selection of Dr. Lori A. Heafner, Ph.D., as the next president of the college. This decision comes after a meticulous national search that aimed to find a visionary leader capable of carrying forward the college's rich legacy into the future. The announcement was made on September 18, 2026, during a special meeting held to finalize the selection, and Dr. Heafner is set to take on her new role starting January 4, 2027.
Dr. Heafner, who has been a pivotal figure at HGTC for over two decades, brings a wealth of experience in higher education to her new presidency. Currently serving as the vice president for academic affairs at HGTC, her tenure at the college has been marked by crucial contributions in various areas including academic programming, institutional effectiveness, and community partnerships. Robert P. Hucks II, chair of the HGTC Area Commission, expressed confidence in Dr. Heafner's ability to lead the college. He noted her deep understanding of both the institution and the surrounding community, asserting that her commitment to student success and institutional excellence would guide HGTC into a prosperous future.
Before joining HGTC, Dr. Heafner kickstarted her higher education journey at Cleveland Community College, establishing a foundation that has propelled her into significant leadership roles. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives such as workforce pathways, dual enrollment programs, and collaborations with various stakeholders including K-12 schools and local businesses. Her extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in academia would surely benefit the students and staff at HGTC and help foster a vibrant educational environment.
Expressing her gratitude for being chosen for this leadership role, Dr. Heafner remarked on her long-standing relationship with HGTC. "I am deeply honored to be selected as the next president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College," she stated. "For twenty years, HGTC has been an integral part of my life, offering me invaluable opportunities to work with outstanding faculty and staff dedicated to student success. I look forward to building on the strong foundation of the college while expanding opportunities for our students and reinforcing our partnerships in the community."
The selection process involved a comprehensive national search supported by the Association of Community College Trustees. This thorough process included campus visits by three finalists, allowing faculty, staff, students, and community members the opportunity to engage with the candidates and provide essential feedback in the selection process.
As HGTC prepares for this leadership transition, students and the broader community can look forward to the continuation and expansion of programs aimed at addressing educational and workforce needs. With its campuses located in Conway, Myrtle Beach, and Georgetown, HGTC serves as a vital educational resource in the region, offering over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, including many online options.
Dr. Heafner’s appointment comes at a time when HGTC is experiencing rapid growth as one of South Carolina's largest technical colleges, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Stakeholders anticipate that Dr. Heafner’s forward-thinking approach will inspire innovation and further enhance the college's reputation and impact in the region.
For further information about Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Dr. Heafner’s upcoming initiatives, please visit their official website.
Dr. Heafner, who has been a pivotal figure at HGTC for over two decades, brings a wealth of experience in higher education to her new presidency. Currently serving as the vice president for academic affairs at HGTC, her tenure at the college has been marked by crucial contributions in various areas including academic programming, institutional effectiveness, and community partnerships. Robert P. Hucks II, chair of the HGTC Area Commission, expressed confidence in Dr. Heafner's ability to lead the college. He noted her deep understanding of both the institution and the surrounding community, asserting that her commitment to student success and institutional excellence would guide HGTC into a prosperous future.
Before joining HGTC, Dr. Heafner kickstarted her higher education journey at Cleveland Community College, establishing a foundation that has propelled her into significant leadership roles. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives such as workforce pathways, dual enrollment programs, and collaborations with various stakeholders including K-12 schools and local businesses. Her extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in academia would surely benefit the students and staff at HGTC and help foster a vibrant educational environment.
Expressing her gratitude for being chosen for this leadership role, Dr. Heafner remarked on her long-standing relationship with HGTC. "I am deeply honored to be selected as the next president of Horry-Georgetown Technical College," she stated. "For twenty years, HGTC has been an integral part of my life, offering me invaluable opportunities to work with outstanding faculty and staff dedicated to student success. I look forward to building on the strong foundation of the college while expanding opportunities for our students and reinforcing our partnerships in the community."
The selection process involved a comprehensive national search supported by the Association of Community College Trustees. This thorough process included campus visits by three finalists, allowing faculty, staff, students, and community members the opportunity to engage with the candidates and provide essential feedback in the selection process.
As HGTC prepares for this leadership transition, students and the broader community can look forward to the continuation and expansion of programs aimed at addressing educational and workforce needs. With its campuses located in Conway, Myrtle Beach, and Georgetown, HGTC serves as a vital educational resource in the region, offering over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, including many online options.
Dr. Heafner’s appointment comes at a time when HGTC is experiencing rapid growth as one of South Carolina's largest technical colleges, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Stakeholders anticipate that Dr. Heafner’s forward-thinking approach will inspire innovation and further enhance the college's reputation and impact in the region.
For further information about Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Dr. Heafner’s upcoming initiatives, please visit their official website.
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