Myrtle Beach, SC, February 20, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s Joseph Bonaparte has been awarded the A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award for his leadership at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach. This recognition highlights his significant contributions to culinary education, including sustainable practices and workforce development. Bonaparte’s efforts have transformed the Institute into a nationally recognized program that not only prioritizes student success but also positively impacts the local economy, demonstrating HGTC’s commitment to excellence in technical education.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Innovation, discipline, and a commitment to academic excellence continue to shape the higher education landscape across the Grand Strand and South Carolina. Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) recently celebrated a significant achievement, underscoring its role in fostering visionary leadership and impactful educational programs.
Joseph Bonaparte, the Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach at HGTC, has been recognized with the prestigious 2026 A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award. This state-level honor highlights his transformative contributions to culinary education, emphasizing sustainability, workforce development, and student success within the dynamic environment of Myrtle Beach’s college community. His leadership reflects a dedication to preparing students with the skills and personal responsibility needed to thrive in their chosen professions, directly contributing to the economic vitality of the region.
HGTC Culinary Leader Earns State’s Top Innovation Honor
Joseph Bonaparte, Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, receives the 2026 A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award for his transformative leadership in culinary education and sustainability.
Recognizing Visionary Leadership in Technical Education
The A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award, established in 1980, is presented annually by the South Carolina Technical Education Association. This esteemed award acknowledges an outstanding employee within the South Carolina Technical College System who demonstrates exceptional innovation, leadership, and a measurable impact on workforce development and student success. The award honors A. Wade Martin, who served as the first executive director of South Carolina’s technical and industrial training program and was recognized for his visionary and entrepreneurial spirit. Recipients are full-time, vested employees of the system, showcasing innovative approaches to meet the evolving needs of technical education. Joseph Bonaparte’s recognition as the 2026 recipient underscores his significant influence on the state’s technical education sector, particularly within the Myrtle Beach culinary education sphere.
Cultivating Culinary Excellence at ICI Myrtle Beach
Since joining HGTC in 2012, Joseph Bonaparte has been instrumental in the transformative growth of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach. Under his guidance, the Institute has evolved into a nationally recognized program with a strong focus on sustainability. A cornerstone of this transformation was the opening of its 30,000-square-foot facility, which is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver-certified. Unveiled in late 2016 at a cost of $15 million, this facility serves as a model for hands-on, sustainability-driven instruction, featuring world-class kitchens, baking labs, a demonstration kitchen, a production kitchen, an outdoor BBQ and dining area, and a greenhouse. The quality of education at ICI Myrtle Beach is considered to rival other top culinary institutes in America.
Innovation Through Sustainability and Workforce Development
Bonaparte’s innovative spirit is particularly evident in the Institute’s commitment to sustainable practices. He implemented a comprehensive recycling and composting initiative that has successfully reduced waste by over 70 percent. Furthermore, he collaborated with the James Beard Foundation to integrate industry-leading food sustainability practices into the curriculum, preparing students for responsible leadership in the culinary world. Addressing the vital needs of South Carolina higher education and the state’s economy, Bonaparte also spearheaded the development of HGTC’s Hospitality and Tourism Management degree program. This program is specifically designed to meet workforce demands in South Carolina’s expansive hospitality and tourism industries, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers. The student-operated Fowler Dining Room and Layers Bakery also provide invaluable real-world training, utilizing locally sourced ingredients to promote both culinary skills and regional economic support.
Setting New Standards in Culinary Accreditation
Under Joseph Bonaparte’s direction, the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach achieved a notable milestone by becoming the first technical college in South Carolina to earn accreditation in both Culinary Arts and Baking and Pastry Arts through the American Culinary Federation Educational Foundation (ACFEF). This dual accreditation underscores the Institute’s high standards and commitment to delivering exceptional culinary education. Beyond academic programs, Bonaparte has actively expanded HGTC’s national visibility through strategic partnerships, student competitions, and various culinary events, such as the 2025 Grand Strand Chef’s Table. These initiatives effectively bridge the gap between education and industry, providing students with invaluable experience and showcasing their talents on a broader stage. Graduates from ICI Myrtle Beach demonstrate significant success, with a 100% job placement rate in industry-related positions.
HGTC’s Broader Impact on South Carolina’s Economy and Community
Joseph Bonaparte’s achievements are deeply intertwined with Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s broader mission to drive economic development and provide accessible, high-quality education. An independent economic impact study revealed that HGTC generates an estimated $503.8 million annually in economic impact from alumni earnings and college operations, supporting 2,926 jobs across the Grand Strand region. Statewide, South Carolina’s technical colleges collectively contribute an impressive $6.4 billion in annual economic impact and support over 38,000 jobs. These institutions play a critical role in retaining talent, with more than 80% of technical college graduates working in South Carolina one year after graduation, and nearly two-thirds remaining in the state a decade later. HGTC, recognized as the fourth-largest technical college in South Carolina, continues to be one of the most affordable educational options in the state. The college’s commitment to student success is further demonstrated by the HGTC Foundation, which awards $400,000 annually in student scholarships. Looking ahead, HGTC plans substantial capital investments between 2025 and 2030, including $75.4 million for new academic buildings and $38 million for renovations, all funded without debt through state appropriations.
Joseph Bonaparte’s recognition with the A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award is a testament to the powerful impact of dedicated leadership and strategic innovation within South Carolina technical education. His work at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach not only elevates culinary instruction but also strengthens the regional economy and provides students with exceptional pathways to success. As Horry-Georgetown Technical College continues its trajectory of growth and development, its contributions remain vital to the educational and economic prosperity of Myrtle Beach and the entire state.
Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse programs offered at Horry-Georgetown Technical College, attend upcoming campus events, and stay informed about the ongoing advancements within the vibrant Myrtle Beach SC college news community.
Key Facts: International Culinary Institute & HGTC Impact
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Recipient of A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award | Joseph Bonaparte | State-level |
| Award Year | 2026 | State-level |
| Organization of Recipient | International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach at HGTC | Local |
| ICI Facility Size | 30,000-square-foot | Local |
| ICI Facility Certification | LEED Silver-certified | Local |
| Waste Reduction Initiative at ICI | Over 70% reduction through recycling and composting | Local |
| HGTC Local Economic Impact | $503.8 million annually, supporting 2,926 jobs | Local |
| South Carolina Technical College System Statewide Economic Impact | $6.4 billion annually, supporting over 38,000 jobs | State-level |
| HGTC Accreditation Status | First technical college in SC with dual ACFEF accreditation for Culinary Arts and Baking and Pastry Arts | State-level |
| ICI Graduate Job Placement Rate | 100% in industry-related positions | Local |
FAQ
Who received the 2026 A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award?
Joseph Bonaparte, Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), received the 2026 A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award.
What is the A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award?
The A. Wade Martin Innovator of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding employee within the South Carolina Technical College System who demonstrates innovation, leadership, and measurable impact on workforce development and student success.
What are some of Joseph Bonaparte’s key innovations at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach?
Joseph Bonaparte led the opening of a 30,000-square-foot LEED Silver-certified facility, implemented a comprehensive recycling and composting initiative that reduced waste by over 70 percent, and collaborated with the James Beard Foundation on food sustainability practices. He also developed HGTC’s Hospitality and Tourism Management degree program and directed the Institute to become the first technical college in South Carolina to earn accreditation in both Culinary Arts and Baking and Pastry Arts through the American Culinary Federation Educational Foundation.
What is the economic impact of Horry-Georgetown Technical College on the local region?
Horry-Georgetown Technical College generates an estimated $503.8 million annually in economic impact from alumni earnings and College operations and supports 2,926 jobs across the region.
What programs are offered at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach?
The International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach offers Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees in Baking and Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts Technology, and Hospitality & Tourism – Hotel, Restaurant & Events Management, along with certificates in Kitchen and Food Preparation Techniques and Professional Cooking.
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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.
