Myrtle Beach, SC, January 22, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College has appointed Dr. Lori Heafner as the new Vice President for Academic Affairs, effective January 1, 2026. This leadership role is pivotal in advancing academic offerings and ensuring student success within the region. Dr. Heafner’s extensive experience and commitment to educational excellence are expected to enhance HGTC’s mission and align programs with industry demands, ultimately benefiting the local community and economy.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
HGTC Welcomes Dr. Lori Heafner as VP for Academic Affairs
This strategic leadership appointment strengthens Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s commitment to academic excellence and student success within South Carolina’s higher education landscape.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), a cornerstone of higher education in the Grand Strand region, has announced a pivotal leadership change set to further enhance its academic offerings and institutional impact. Dr. Lori Heafner has been appointed as the new Vice President for Academic Affairs, a role that became effective on January 1, 2026. This appointment underscores HGTC’s dedication to maintaining rigorous academic standards, fostering student growth, and ensuring institutional excellence across its varied programs.
The role of Vice President for Academic Affairs is central to shaping the educational experience at any institution. It encompasses overseeing curriculum development, supporting faculty, and ensuring that academic programs meet the evolving needs of students and the regional workforce. Dr. Heafner’s leadership is anticipated to reinforce HGTC’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers and continued personal and professional development, thereby contributing significantly to the community and economic vitality of Myrtle Beach and the broader South Carolina coast.
The Strategic Appointment at HGTC
The appointment of Dr. Lori Heafner to the position of Vice President for Academic Affairs at Horry-Georgetown Technical College marks a significant moment for the institution. Her leadership officially commenced on January 1, 2026. This executive role is critical for the college’s strategic direction, particularly in an era demanding adaptable and responsive educational frameworks. The Vice President for Academic Affairs plays an instrumental part in advancing the college’s academic mission, ensuring that all programs are aligned with industry demands and student aspirations.
HGTC is an integral part of the South Carolina higher education system, providing essential training and academic pathways for a diverse student body. The institution’s focus on practical skills, vocational training, and foundational academic courses makes it a vital resource for individuals seeking to enter the workforce or transfer to four-year universities. Dr. Heafner’s appointment signals a renewed emphasis on innovation and the discipline required to maintain and elevate the quality of education offered to students in the Myrtle Beach area and beyond.
Dr. Heafner’s Extensive Tenure and Leadership
Dr. Lori Heafner brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to her new position. Throughout her tenure prior to this appointment, she has demonstrated a profound commitment to the academic success and operational excellence of the institution. This extensive background suggests a deep understanding of HGTC’s unique challenges and opportunities, positioning her well to lead the academic division into its next phase of growth.
Her leadership style is expected to emphasize personal responsibility among faculty and students, encouraging a culture of continuous improvement and academic rigor. Leaders in education, much like those in other community sectors, are tasked with guiding their institutions through complex landscapes. For example, local community leadership is also demonstrated through organizations like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, which saw Ryan Swaim of Dunes Realty serve as its 2023 Chairman of the Board of Directors, a testament to dedicated service to local progress. Dr. Heafner’s demonstrated dedication reflects the same spirit of commitment to the community through academic leadership.
Advancing Academic Excellence and Student Outcomes
As Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Heafner will be responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of curricula across all of HGTC’s departments. This includes ensuring that academic programs remain relevant, up-to-date, and responsive to the needs of the job market and transfer institutions. The role is pivotal in fostering an environment of academic freedom, where faculty can explore innovative teaching methodologies and students are encouraged to pursue their intellectual curiosities.
A core aspect of this position involves supporting faculty professional development and ensuring resources are available to maintain high-quality instruction. The focus on student outcomes is paramount, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers and active participation in their communities. This commitment to educational discipline and excellence directly impacts the leadership potential developed within the student body, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.
HGTC’s Role in Community and Economic Development
Horry-Georgetown Technical College plays a crucial role beyond direct academic instruction; it is a vital engine for economic and workforce development in the Grand Strand. By offering programs tailored to local industries such as healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, and skilled trades, HGTC helps to cultivate a skilled labor force that supports the region’s growth. The appointment of a strong academic leader like Dr. Heafner further strengthens the college’s ability to forge effective partnerships with businesses and organizations.
These collaborations are essential for creating internships, apprenticeships, and direct employment opportunities for students. The college’s responsiveness to community needs and its ability to adapt programs to changing economic landscapes are key indicators of its impact. This interconnectedness highlights how higher education, particularly technical colleges like HGTC, contributes significantly to regional prosperity and the overall quality of life in communities like Myrtle Beach SC college news frequently highlights.
The Future of Higher Education in Myrtle Beach
The appointment of Dr. Lori Heafner ushers in a new chapter for academic leadership at Horry-Georgetown Technical College. Her leadership is poised to guide HGTC in adapting to future educational trends and technological advancements, ensuring that the college remains at the forefront of providing relevant and impactful education. The emphasis on innovation in teaching and learning, coupled with a disciplined approach to academic administration, will be crucial for the college’s continued success.
As the landscape of higher education evolves, institutions like HGTC must remain agile and forward-thinking. Strong academic leadership ensures that the college can respond effectively to student needs, industry demands, and the broader educational ecosystem of South Carolina higher education. This strategic appointment reflects HGTC’s unwavering commitment to its students, faculty, and the communities it serves, solidifying its position as a pillar of educational opportunity in the region.
Dr. Lori Heafner’s Appointment at HGTC Summary
Here is a summary of key details regarding Dr. Lori Heafner’s appointment:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Appointee | Dr. Lori Heafner |
| Position | Vice President for Academic Affairs |
| Institution | Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) |
| Effective Date | January 1, 2026 |
Conclusion
Dr. Lori Heafner’s appointment as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Horry-Georgetown Technical College, effective January 1, 2026, represents a significant step in the institution’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and student success. Her extensive experience and dedication are expected to further solidify HGTC’s role as a vital educational and economic contributor to the Myrtle Beach area and South Carolina higher education. By upholding principles of academic rigor, fostering innovation, and emphasizing personal responsibility, HGTC continues to build leaders and positively impact the community.
Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse programs offered by Horry-Georgetown Technical College, attend campus events, and stay informed about the impactful developments within the vibrant Myrtle Beach SC college news landscape. These institutions are not just places of learning; they are dynamic centers of growth and opportunity for the entire region.
FAQ
Who is Dr. Lori Heafner?
Dr. Lori Heafner has been appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC).
What is Dr. Lori Heafner’s new role at HGTC?
Dr. Lori Heafner’s new role at HGTC is Vice President for Academic Affairs.
When does Dr. Lori Heafner’s role become effective?
Dr. Lori Heafner’s role as Vice President for Academic Affairs at HGTC became effective on January 1, 2026.
What are the responsibilities of the Vice President for Academic Affairs at HGTC?
The Vice President for Academic Affairs at HGTC is responsible for overseeing curriculum development, supporting faculty, and ensuring that academic programs meet the evolving needs of students and the regional workforce.
How does Horry-Georgetown Technical College contribute to the Myrtle Beach community?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College contributes to the Myrtle Beach community by providing essential training and academic pathways, cultivating a skilled labor force that supports regional growth, and forging effective partnerships with businesses and organizations.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
