Horry-Georgetown Technical College students earn statewide academic honor
April 17, 2026
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) announces that students Tiamarie Rangel and Pretoria Hines have been named to the 2026 Phi Theta Kappa All-State Academic Team, one of the highest honors awarded to students attending two-year colleges.
Rangel was recognized during the 2026 Phi Theta Kappa All-State Academic Team Recognition Ceremony held April 9 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in Columbia, South Carolina. Hines, who was also selected for the honor, was unable to attend the ceremony.
The annual event, hosted by Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges, recognizes outstanding students from across the state for academic achievement, leadership and service.
(L-r): Dr. Lori Heafner, vice president for academic affairs at HGTC; Tiamarie Rangel, HGTC Phi Theta Kappa All-State Academic Team honoree; and Dr. Tim Hardee, president of the SC Technical College System, during the recognition ceremony April 9 in Columbia, SC.
Rangel and Hines are among 46 students selected from across the South Carolina Technical College System, recognizing their academic achievement and meaningful involvement in their colleges and communities.
“Being named to the Phi Theta Kappa All-State Academic Team reflects academic excellence as well as leadership, perseverance and a strong commitment to service,” said Dr. Lori Heafner, vice president for academic affairs at Horry-Georgetown Technical College. “We are proud of Tiamarie and Pretoria and the way they represent HGTC and its mission of transforming lives through education.”
Each year, Phi Theta Kappa selects students from technical, community and junior colleges nationwide for its All-State Academic Teams. Honorees are recognized for scholarly achievements and contributions to their colleges and communities.
The South Carolina Technical College System sponsors the All-State Academic Team recognition, bringing together students, college leaders and state officials to recognize academic excellence and student leadership.
HGTC prepares students for success through academic programs, workforce development and transfer opportunities that support personal and professional growth.
About Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) is a public, two-year college serving Horry and Georgetown counties with campuses located along the Grand Strand in Conway, Myrtle Beach, and Georgetown, South Carolina. A member of the South Carolina Technical College System, HGTC offers more than 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, including many online options, designed to prepare students for careers or transfer to four-year colleges and universities. The College also provides workforce development programs that support regional economic growth. HGTC is the fourth-largest of South Carolina’s 16 technical colleges and among the fastest-growing higher education institutions in the state. For more information, visit www.hgtc.edu.
