Williamson was recognized for his exceptional support and commitment to education
and workforce in South Carolina. The Cheraw, South Carolina, resident has served on the Winthrop Board of Trustees
and the Alumni Executive Board.
Jimmie WilliamsonROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA — James C. "Jimmie" Williamson '80, '85, president of the S.C. Technical College System, has been named State Employee of the Year.
The South Carolina Association of Regional Councils honored Williamson with the annual award for his exceptional support and commitment to education and
workforce in South Carolina.
Williamson said that he was honored to receive the award and explained that he is "a firm believer
in the power of education."
"Demand for a skilled workforce is ever-increasing, and as a system, we are committed
to meeting that demand by ensuring a quality higher education remains affordable,
accessible and relevant for the citizens of this great state," said Williamson.
The Cheraw, South Carolina, resident noted that his work in higher education as well
as the private sector has given him "a unique perspective on the true benefits of
a technical college system in South Carolina." Williamson worked previously at Agapé Senior as chief human capital officer and as president
of Northeastern Technical College in Cheraw and Williamsburg Technical College in
Kingstree, South Carolina.
Williamson holds a bachelor's degree in visual arts and a M.Ed. from Winthrop as well as a Ph.D.
from the University of South Carolina. He has served as a member of the Winthrop University Board of Trustees as well as the Alumni Association Executive Board, and he received a Professional Achievement Award from the university. In 2012, Williamson and his wife, Kimberly Dickens Williamson
'82, established the James C. and Kimberly Dickens Williamson Leadership Award to support Winthrop upperclassmen who demonstrate leadership through extracurricular
activities.
The Hartsville, South Carolina, native also remains active in his community. Williamson has served as president of his local Rotary Club, chair of his local Chamber of Commerce
and as a member of various economic development boards. The Williamsburg Hometown
Chamber of Commerce named Williamson "Citizen of the Year."
For more information, contact Meredith Carter, communications coordinator, at 803/323-2236
or carterm@winthrop.edu.
