Myrtle Beach, SC, January 25, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College, in partnership with the Conway Chamber of Commerce, sponsors the 58th Annual Salute to Education. This event honors exceptional graduating seniors and provides a $1,000 scholarship opportunity for a deserving student from the Conway area. The initiative emphasizes the importance of academic discipline and community engagement and showcases the impact of local educational institutions on workforce development and economic vitality in South Carolina.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and community engagement by serving as the presenting sponsor for the 58th Annual Salute to Education. This enduring collaboration with the Conway Chamber of Commerce underscores a shared dedication to investing in the future leaders and skilled workforce of the Grand Strand. The initiative highlights the critical role local educational institutions play in empowering students and strengthening the region’s economic vitality.
The annual scholarship opportunity, spearheaded by HGTC and the Conway Chamber, provides a tangible pathway for Conway-area high school seniors to pursue higher education. This focus on local talent not only supports individual academic journeys but also reinforces the foundational principles of personal responsibility and the pursuit of knowledge. Such programs are vital for cultivating a disciplined and educated populace, essential for sustained growth and prosperity within the South Carolina educational and economic landscape.
Recognizing Academic Discipline and Community Spirit
The 58th Annual Salute to Education is set to take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 12 p.m.. This event is a cornerstone of the Conway community, designed to honor outstanding graduating seniors and their inspirational teachers from the Conway area. It is more than just an awards luncheon; it is a testament to the collective belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of recognizing diligence and achievement.
Through this program, one deserving Conway-area student will receive a $1,000 scholarship to aid in their continued educational journey. Eligibility for this scholarship is thoughtfully designed to identify students who have demonstrated not only academic prowess but also a commitment to their community. Applicants must either attend a Conway-area school or reside in Conway, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and complete a comprehensive application that includes essays, a photograph, an unofficial high school transcript, and a letter of recommendation from a school guidance counselor or principal. The application deadline for this year’s scholarship is January 30, 2026, at 5 p.m.. This rigorous application process encourages students to reflect on their accomplishments and aspirations, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of higher learning.
HGTC’s Broad Impact on South Carolina Higher Education
Horry-Georgetown Technical College stands as a pillar of South Carolina higher education, with a far-reaching impact that extends beyond individual scholarships. The college plays a significant role in the regional economy, generating an estimated $503.8 million in annual economic impact and supporting 2,926 jobs within the community. With an annual enrollment of 10,649 students, HGTC is a major contributor to workforce development and academic advancement in the Grand Strand area.
Since its inception in 1966, HGTC has proudly graduated 25,000 students. A remarkable 90% of these graduates choose to live, work, and thrive within South Carolina, with 94% successfully finding employment or transferring to a four-year university. These statistics underscore the effectiveness of HGTC’s programs in preparing students for successful careers and contributing directly to the state’s workforce, exemplifying the value of practical, skills-based education.
The South Carolina Technical College System: A Statewide Economic Engine
HGTC is an integral part of the larger South Carolina Technical College System, which collectively serves as a powerful economic engine for the entire state. A recent study, conducted by the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business, revealed that the statewide technical college system generates approximately $6.4 billion in annual economic impact, supporting over 38,000 jobs each year. This substantial contribution highlights the system’s role in cultivating a skilled labor force responsive to industry demands.
Furthermore, the study emphasized the system’s ability to retain talent within the state. More than 80% of technical college graduates are employed in South Carolina one year after graduation, and nearly two-thirds continue to work in-state a decade later. This strong workforce retention rate is crucial for strengthening local economies and ensuring that investments in education yield long-term benefits for South Carolina communities. Graduates from South Carolina’s technical colleges also experience a significant financial advantage, earning, on average, 52.8% more per year than individuals with only a high school diploma. This tangible return on investment for students and taxpayers alike reinforces the critical value of technical education.
Nurturing Student Success and Academic Freedom
Horry-Georgetown Technical College is dedicated to enriching students’ lives through accessible and affordable education, fostering economic development, and driving innovation. Beyond financial aid, HGTC provides robust support services designed to ensure student success. The Student Success & Tutoring Center (SSTC) offers free academic tutoring, writing center assistance, and academic coaching across various subjects including writing, math, sciences, nursing, and allied health. These resources empower students to take personal responsibility for their academic journey, develop strong study habits, and achieve their full potential.
The college’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in its strategic goals, which include exceeding key performance indicators such as graduate placement rates, licensure exam pass rates, and course success rates. By maintaining high standards and providing comprehensive support, HGTC upholds the principles of academic rigor and prepares students for successful transitions into the workforce or further academic pursuits. The HGTC Foundation further supports student achievement by awarding between $100,000 and $150,000 annually in student scholarships, with individual awards ranging from $100 to $1,500 per year.
Community Partnerships and Economic Development
The collaboration between HGTC and the Conway Chamber of Commerce on the Salute to Education is a prime example of effective community partnership. The Conway Chamber’s mission includes actively promoting education and supporting local businesses, viewing an educated workforce as critical for recruiting jobs and growing the local economy. Their Educational Programs division, which includes the Salute to Education, plays a vital role in developing future business and community leaders.
These partnerships are essential for building a resilient and dynamic economic ecosystem. By aligning educational offerings with the needs of local industries, institutions like HGTC ensure that students gain relevant skills, contributing to a capable workforce that attracts and sustains business growth in South Carolina. This strategic collaboration emphasizes that education is not just an individual endeavor but a collective investment in the community’s future.
Table: HGTC & South Carolina Technical College System Impact
| Metric | Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) | South Carolina Technical College System (Statewide) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Economic Impact | $503.8 Million | $6.4 Billion |
| Jobs Supported Annually | 2,926 | 38,000+ |
| Annual Student Enrollment | 10,649 | ~175,000 |
| Graduates Remaining In-State (1 year post-graduation) | 90% | 80%+ |
| Average Increased Earnings (vs. High School Diploma) | N/A (system-wide data applies) | 52.8% more annually |
| HGTC Foundation Annual Scholarship Awards | $400,000 | N/A |
The Conway Chamber of Commerce and Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s ongoing partnership for the Salute to Education exemplifies a strong commitment to academic rigor and community development within Myrtle Beach and across South Carolina higher education. By empowering deserving students with scholarship opportunities, they are not merely providing financial aid but investing in the character, discipline, and future contributions of these young individuals. These efforts cultivate a skilled workforce and foster leaders who will continue to build a vibrant and prosperous South Carolina.
We encourage our readers to explore the diverse academic programs offered by HGTC and other local institutions. Stay informed about upcoming campus events and initiatives that continue to shape the bright future of our Myrtle Beach college community. Engaged citizens and supported students are the bedrock of a thriving region.
Keywords: Horry-Georgetown Technical College, Conway Chamber of Commerce, Myrtle Beach SC college news, South Carolina higher education, HGTC scholarships
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 58th Annual Salute to Education?
The 58th Annual Salute to Education is an event presented by Horry-Georgetown Technical College and the Conway Chamber of Commerce that honors outstanding graduating seniors and their inspirational teachers in the Conway area.
What is the scholarship amount for the Salute to Education?
One Conway-area student will receive a $1,000 scholarship through the Salute to Education program.
When is the 58th Annual Salute to Education event scheduled?
The 58th Annual Salute to Education event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 12 p.m.
Who is eligible for the Salute to Education scholarship?
Eligible students must attend a Conway-area school or reside in Conway, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and complete an application that includes two essays, a photograph, an unofficial high school transcript, and a letter of recommendation from a school guidance counselor or principal.
What is the application deadline for the Salute to Education scholarship?
All applications for the Salute to Education scholarship must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026.
What is Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s annual economic impact?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College generates an estimated $503.8 million in annual economic impact.
How many jobs does HGTC support annually?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College supports 2,926 jobs annually.
How many students does HGTC enroll annually?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College has an annual enrollment of 10,649 students.
How much does the HGTC Foundation award in student scholarships annually?
The HGTC Foundation awards $400,000 annually in student scholarships.
What is the statewide economic impact of the South Carolina Technical College System?
The South Carolina Technical College System generates approximately $6.4 billion in annual economic impact statewide.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Conway High: Fostering Achievement Through Athletics & Academics
HGTC Offers $1,000 Scholarship for Conway-area Seniors
Myrtle Beach High: Driving Student Success & Community Growth
Myrtle Beach High School Celebrates Academic and Athletic Achievements
Myrtle Beach Thrives: Innovation and Infrastructure Drive Growth
Myrtle Beach High: Charting a Course for Student Success
Horry-Georgetown Technical College: A Catalyst for Workforce Development
Conway Chapter Marks Half a Century of Community Engagement
Coastal Carolina University Upgrades Athletic Facilities
Carolina Forest Athletics Ignites Community Spirit
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.
