Myrtle Beach, SC, February 20, 2026
News Summary
Horry-Georgetown Technical College has recently acknowledged three exceptional employees as 2026 Educators of the Year by the South Carolina Technical Education Association. The awards were announced during the SCTEA Conference Awards Luncheon, highlighting HGTC’s dedication to academic excellence and the significant contributions of its faculty and staff. The honored individuals include a Vice President, a Mathematics Chair, and an Administrative Coordinator, all recognized for their outstanding leadership and influence in shaping student success and community impact.
HGTC Employees Earn Statewide Educator of the Year Honors, Championing Academic Excellence
Myrtle Beach, SC — Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) recently celebrated the recognition of three distinguished employees as 2026 Educators of the Year by the South Carolina Technical Education Association (SCTEA). This esteemed acknowledgment, presented at the SCTEA Conference Awards Luncheon on February 13, 2026, highlights HGTC’s commitment to academic rigor, student growth, and institutional excellence within the vibrant Myrtle Beach higher education landscape. Such accolades underscore the dedication of faculty and staff who are instrumental in shaping the future workforce and contributing to the economic vitality of South Carolina.
The consistent pursuit of excellence in teaching, administration, and support services is a cornerstone of effective higher education. Institutions like HGTC play a pivotal role in providing accessible, high-quality technical education that directly addresses the needs of local industries and empowers students to achieve personal and professional success. The honorees exemplify the leadership and personal responsibility that drive positive community impact, reflecting a broader trend of educational institutions fostering skilled talent and robust community engagement across the state.
Celebrating Exemplary Service: HGTC’s 2026 Educators of the Year
Horry-Georgetown Technical College proudly announced that three of its outstanding employees were recognized as 2026 Educators of the Year at the annual South Carolina Technical Education Association (SCTEA) Conference Awards Luncheon. The event, held on February 13, 2026, served as a platform to acknowledge exceptional service and achievement across the South Carolina Technical College System. Each of the state’s 16 technical colleges selects one honoree in each category: faculty/teaching, staff, and administrator/manager.
The 2026 award recipients from HGTC were:
- Dr. Lori Heafner, Vice President for Academic Affairs – honored in the Administrator/Manager category.
- Randy Moser, Chair and Professor of Mathematics – recognized in the Faculty/Teaching category.
- Nancy Ekstrom, Administrative Coordinator for Academics & Workforce Development – awarded in the Staff category.
These individuals were nominated by their peers for their superior leadership, professionalism, and significant contributions to both the College and the wider community.
The Significance of the SCTEA Educator of the Year Awards
The SCTEA Educator of the Year Awards provide annual recognition for outstanding service and achievement in the categories of faculty/teaching, staff, and administrator/manager within the South Carolina Technical College System. This statewide recognition program aims to highlight individuals who demonstrate a profound commitment to educational excellence and student success. The criteria for selection emphasize quality instruction, promotion of the college in the community, professional development, student involvement, and respect among colleagues and students. For administrators and managers, criteria include effective management techniques, innovation, and a strong commitment to advancing the college’s mission. Staff honorees are recognized for demonstrating excellence, professionalism, and a commitment to institutional goals in supporting the management and instructional processes of the College.
Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, President of HGTC, noted that these awards reflect the very best of the institution, emphasizing that Dr. Heafner, Randy Moser, and Nancy Ekstrom exemplify excellence in leadership, instruction, and service. Their dedication to student success, professional growth, and community engagement strengthens the College and advances its mission daily.
Technical Colleges: Cornerstones of Community and Economic Impact
Technical colleges are vital to the socio-economic development of communities, serving as a direct link between workforce needs and skilled talent. A recent study by the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business revealed that the South Carolina Technical College System generates approximately $6.4 billion in annual economic impact statewide, supporting over 38,000 jobs each year. This significant economic contribution underscores the value of these institutions in building robust local economies.
Graduates from South Carolina’s technical colleges are highly likely to remain in the state, with more than 80% working in South Carolina one year after graduation. Nearly two-thirds of these graduates continue to be employed in-state a decade later, demonstrating strong workforce retention rates that often exceed those of four-year institutions. This sustained impact reflects how technical education directly contributes to a stable and skilled workforce, fostering community stability and economic mobility.
Supporting Student Pathways and Affordability in Higher Education
Horry-Georgetown Technical College provides a range of services designed to support student success, including academic advising, career services, counseling, financial aid assistance, and a Student Success and Tutoring Center. The Student Success and Tutoring Center (SSTC) offers free academic tutoring, writing center assistance, and academic coaching in various subjects like Writing, Math, Sciences, and Nursing, available both on campus and online.
In related news impacting higher education accessibility in the region, the Coastal Carolina University (CCU) Board of Trustees announced that tuition rates will not increase for the 2024-25 academic year. This decision follows a trend where in-state tuition at CCU has remained steady for five consecutive years, influenced by directives from the South Carolina legislature aimed at encouraging more South Carolina students to attend in-state institutions. For the 2024-2025 academic year, in-state tuition at Coastal Carolina University is $11,640. The stability in tuition rates contributes to college affordability, which is a key factor in enabling broader access to higher education and reducing the financial burden on students and families.
Key Contributions of HGTC Honorees
The three HGTC honorees exemplify distinct and critical contributions to the college’s operational and academic framework:
- Dr. Lori Heafner, as Vice President for Academic Affairs, provides leadership in shaping the academic vision and ensuring the quality of educational programs offered at HGTC. Her role is crucial in fostering an environment of innovation and academic freedom that supports both faculty and students.
- Randy Moser, as Chair and Professor of Mathematics, demonstrates excellence in instruction and curriculum development. His dedication to engaging students in a foundational subject like mathematics prepares them with essential analytical skills vital for various career paths and further academic pursuits.
- Nancy Ekstrom, as Administrative Coordinator for Academics & Workforce Development, plays a pivotal role in the logistical and administrative support that underpins the academic and workforce training initiatives. Her efficiency and commitment ensure that programs run smoothly, directly impacting student access to resources and program completion.
These roles, while varied, collectively contribute to HGTC’s mission of providing comprehensive educational experiences and preparing a disciplined, skilled workforce for the region.
Building a Stronger South Carolina Through Education
The dedication of educators and administrators at institutions like Horry-Georgetown Technical College and the commitment to affordability exemplified by Coastal Carolina University are fundamental to the strength of South Carolina’s higher education system. By recognizing outstanding individuals and maintaining accessible education, these institutions foster a culture of discipline, innovation, and personal responsibility that empowers students to become future leaders and impactful members of their communities. The success of these initiatives ensures that South Carolina higher education continues to be a driving force for economic development and social progress.
Summary of HGTC Educators of the Year 2026
| Award Category | Recipient Name | Title/Role |
|---|---|---|
| Administrator/Manager | Dr. Lori Heafner | Vice President for Academic Affairs |
| Faculty/Teaching | Randy Moser | Chair and Professor of Mathematics |
| Staff | Nancy Ekstrom | Administrative Coordinator for Academics & Workforce Development |
Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse academic programs at Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Coastal Carolina University, attend local campus events, and stay informed about the ongoing contributions of Myrtle Beach’s college community to the region’s prosperity and development. For more Myrtle Beach SC college news and updates on South Carolina higher education, HEREmyrtlebeach.com remains a key resource.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who were the HGTC employees recognized as 2026 Educators of the Year?
A: The Horry-Georgetown Technical College employees recognized as 2026 Educators of the Year were Dr. Lori Heafner, Vice President for Academic Affairs (Administrator/Manager); Randy Moser, Chair and Professor of Mathematics (Faculty/Teaching); and Nancy Ekstrom, Administrative Coordinator for Academics & Workforce Development (Staff).
Q: When and where was the 2026 Educators of the Year awards luncheon held?
A: The 2026 Educators of the Year awards luncheon was held on February 13, 2026, at the annual South Carolina Technical Education Association (SCTEA) Conference Awards Luncheon.
Q: What is the economic impact of the South Carolina Technical College System?
A: The South Carolina Technical College System generates approximately $6.4 billion in annual economic impact statewide.
Q: What is the in-state tuition rate for Coastal Carolina University for the 2024-2025 academic year?
A: The in-state tuition rate for Coastal Carolina University for the 2024-2025 academic year is $11,640.
Q: What services does Horry-Georgetown Technical College offer to support student success?
A: Horry-Georgetown Technical College offers a range of services including academic advising, career services, counseling, financial aid assistance, and a Student Success and Tutoring Center (SSTC) that provides free academic tutoring, writing center assistance, and academic coaching.
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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.
