Myrtle Beach, SC, January 30, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College is hosting a leadership development session, part of the C2Lead Leadership Development Series, aimed at enhancing professional growth. Featuring insights from the president of Coastal Carolina University, the event emphasizes inter-institutional collaboration and the importance of leadership in education. This initiative reflects a commitment to strengthening the local workforce and educational landscape while celebrating HGTC’s long-standing dedication to leadership and institutional excellence.
Myrtle Beach, SC —
Myrtle Beach Higher Ed Spotlights Leadership Development
In a continuing commitment to fostering robust leadership and promoting inter-institutional collaboration, Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is hosting a significant leadership development session today, Friday, January 30, 2026. This event, part of HGTC’s acclaimed C2Lead Leadership Development Series, features Dr. James Winebrake, the current President of Coastal Carolina University (CCU). Such gatherings underscore the dedication of Myrtle Beach’s higher education institutions to academic rigor, student growth, and institutional excellence, which collectively bolster the community and local economy.
The Grand Strand region benefits significantly from the synergistic efforts between its colleges and universities. These partnerships are crucial for cultivating a skilled workforce and fostering leadership capabilities vital for South Carolina’s ongoing prosperity. The session today exemplifies how local educational leaders are actively engaging to share insights and strategies, reinforcing the foundational role that discipline and personal responsibility play in educational and professional advancement.
A Focus on Professional Growth and Collaborative Learning
The leadership development session, held at 10 a.m. on HGTC’s Conway Campus in the Burroughs & Chapin Auditorium, is a key component of the college’s C2Lead Leadership Development Series. This series is designed to offer professional growth opportunities for employees of HGTC and community partners. Dr. James Winebrake is sharing insights drawn from his extensive leadership journey, offering guidance for professionals within higher education, and highlighting current initiatives at Coastal Carolina University. The session is open to employees from both HGTC and CCU, as well as members of the wider community.
Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, President of Horry-Georgetown Technical College, emphasized the importance of leadership development for institutional strength and effectiveness. She noted that as HGTC celebrates its 60th anniversary, the focus remains on investing in people and learning from distinguished leaders such as President Winebrake. This session reflects a commitment to professional growth, collaboration, and advancing excellence across higher education.
Dr. James Winebrake’s Extensive Leadership Background
Dr. James Winebrake assumed the presidency of Coastal Carolina University on July 7, 2025, becoming the institution’s fourth president. His appointment followed a national search and interview process. Prior to his role at CCU, Dr. Winebrake served as the provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) from July 2020 to June 2025.
His academic and leadership career spans over two decades, including positions such as dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and chair of the Public Policy Department at RIT. Dr. Winebrake holds a Ph.D. in energy management and policy from the University of Pennsylvania, a master’s degree in technology and policy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and a bachelor’s degree in physics from Lafayette College. His research has focused on the environmental impacts of transportation and energy policy, and he has contributed to committees of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
Coastal Carolina University: Growth and Community Engagement
Under Dr. Winebrake’s leadership, Coastal Carolina University continues its trajectory of growth and expanding its academic and research portfolios. CCU is a public liberal arts institution in Conway, South Carolina, enrolling over 10,000 students. It offers more than 115 undergraduate and over 30 graduate-level programs, including doctoral degrees in marine science and education sciences. The university is a leading sea-grant and space-grant institution, providing transformative educational experiences through research and experiential learning.
Coastal Carolina University also emphasizes community interaction, supported by a wide array of student clubs and organizations. Programs like “Pathway 1954” encourage students to participate in community service and club activities, fostering leadership and engagement beyond the classroom. This commitment to active participation aligns with the value of personal responsibility and the development of future community leaders.
HGTC’s Role in Workforce Development and Educational Impact
Horry-Georgetown Technical College plays a vital role in enhancing education and workforce development in the Grand Strand and across South Carolina higher education. The college offers more than 80 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs, with a significant portion of its students either seeking immediate entry into the workforce or planning to transfer to a four-year institution. HGTC provides non-credit and corporate training programs through its workforce development division, addressing the evolving needs of the region.
A recent study highlighted HGTC’s substantial economic impact, contributing $503.8 million annually to the state and supporting 2,926 jobs. This demonstrates the college’s significant contribution to the economic ecosystem of South Carolina by providing a steady stream of skilled professionals and offering opportunities for upskilling and reskilling, thereby supporting local businesses and industries. The college is also exploring expansion to northwest Horry County to further extend its reach and opportunities for students.
The Broader Impact of Inter-Institutional Collaboration
The collaboration between institutions like HGTC and CCU is a cornerstone of a robust educational and economic ecosystem in South Carolina. Such partnerships allow colleges to pool resources, expertise, and research, which are invaluable for community projects and addressing complex regional issues. Collaborative efforts enhance student outcomes, strengthen local economies, and optimize resource utilization. They also provide students with valuable learning opportunities and instill a sense of civic responsibility.
The South Carolina Technical College System, of which HGTC is a part, emphasizes empowering students with knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills to make a difference in their communities and workplaces. By learning from experienced leaders like Dr. Winebrake, professionals and aspiring leaders are better equipped to drive positive change and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the region.
Summary of Key Contributions by HGTC and CCU
The following table summarizes some key contributions and data points for Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Coastal Carolina University, reflecting their impact on Myrtle Beach SC college news and the broader South Carolina landscape:
| Institution | Role in Region | Annual Economic Impact (State-level) | Programs Offered | Leadership Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) | Workforce Development, Associate Degrees, Transfer Pathways | $503.8 million | 80+ Associate Degrees, Diplomas, Certificates, Corporate Training | C2Lead Leadership Development Series, professional growth for employees and community partners |
| Coastal Carolina University (CCU) | Comprehensive Liberal Arts, Research, Experiential Learning | Not specified in search results | 115+ Undergraduate, 30+ Graduate (incl. PhDs) | Student leadership (e.g., Pathway 1954), expanding academic and research portfolios, community partnerships |
The leadership development session at Horry-Georgetown Technical College featuring Coastal Carolina University President Dr. James Winebrake today exemplifies the commitment of local educational institutions to cultivating strong leaders and fostering academic excellence. These collaborative efforts not only enrich the academic experience but also significantly contribute to the economic and social vitality of the Grand Strand. Readers are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming university and college programs, attend campus events, and continue supporting the thriving Myrtle Beach SC college news community, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of South Carolina higher education.
FAQ
When is Horry-Georgetown Technical College hosting the leadership development session featuring Coastal Carolina University President James Winebrake?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College is hosting a leadership development session featuring James Winebrake, president of Coastal Carolina University, on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10 a.m..
Where will the leadership development session be held?
The session will be held on Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Conway Campus, in the Burroughs & Chapin Auditorium (Building 1100B).
What is the purpose of HGTC’s C2Lead Leadership Development Series?
The C2Lead Leadership Development Series provides professional growth opportunities for employees of Horry-Georgetown Technical College and community partners.
What topics will President Winebrake address during the session?
President Winebrake will share insights from his leadership journey, offer guidance for professionals working in higher education, and highlight current initiatives at Coastal Carolina University.
Who is invited to attend the leadership development session?
The presentation is open to employees of Horry-Georgetown Technical College, employees of Coastal Carolina University, and members of the community.
What is Dr. James Winebrake’s current role and previous experience?
Dr. James Winebrake is the fourth president of Coastal Carolina University, having assumed the role on July 7, 2025. Previously, he served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of North Carolina Wilmington from July 2020 to June 2025. His career also includes roles as dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the Rochester Institute of Technology and chair of the Public Policy Department at RIT.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Macaroni Mania Returns to North Myrtle Beach
Francis Marion University Enhances Campus Security with Federal Funding
University of South Carolina Expands Research in AI
The Impact of Higher Education on Myrtle Beach’s Economy
Charleston Restaurateurs Connect for Growth
Myrtle Beach Hosts Key Autism Research Event
Myrtle Beach Events Showcase Community Growth
Georgetown’s Root Restaurant Closes Amid Economic Shifts
Myrtle Beach Man Pleads Guilty After High-Speed Chase
New Coaching Leadership in Horry County High Schools
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.
