HGTC celebrates grand opening of newly expanded Institute of Cosmetology
February 20, 2026
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) officially celebrated the grand opening of its newly expanded Institute of Cosmetology on Thursday with a ribbon cutting ceremony and community open house on the Conway Campus.
The event began with remarks from HGTC President Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, followed by a ceremonial ribbon cutting inside Building 600. Community leaders, industry partners, students, faculty, and staff gathered to commemorate the enhanced instructional space and tour the upgraded facility.
“The expansion of our Institute of Cosmetology represents our continued investment in career-focused education and workforce development,” Fore said. “This facility provides our students with hands-on training in a modern environment that mirrors industry standards and prepares them to successfully enter South Carolina’s growing beauty and wellness sector.”
The newly expanded facility offers increased instructional space, updated equipment and enhanced clinical areas designed to support experiential learning in hair, skin and nail services. During the open house, attendees toured the space, met instructors and students, and learned more about program pathways and licensure preparation.
HGTC’s cosmetology program equips students with the technical skills, professional competencies, and customer service experience necessary to pursue careers in salons, spas, and independent business ownership. The program also supports local workforce needs by preparing licensed professionals ready to serve the Grand Strand region.
The open house welcomed prospective students, business partners, alumni and community members, reinforcing the College’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education aligned with regional economic development priorities.
