Hope Rivers

Dr. Hope E. Rivers, President of Piedmont Technical College (PTC), has been instrumental in advancing the college's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and training. Under her leadership, PTC, which serves the largest area in South Carolina’s technical college system, has seen an 11% increase in enrollment and secured funding for 10 renovation and capital improvement projects. These include a new health science facility in Greenwood and advanced manufacturing centers in Saluda and Edgefield counties. Dr. Rivers has spearheaded initiatives like establishing The Hope Pantry food bank, reviving the Honors Program, expanding work-based learning opportunities, redesigning math and English curricula, and implementing new technology systems to enhance student services and communications, setting a new standard for excellence.

Dr. Rivers' influence also extends beyond the college. She serves on several high-profile boards and committees at local, state, and national levels, including the SC Governor's School for Agriculture at John de la Howe, Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, Greenwood Together, Laurens County Development Corporation, SC Department of Commerce Upper Savannah Regional Education Center Advisory, Ten at the Top, Upstate Alliance, SC State Chamber of Commerce, SC Arts Foundation Board, and the University of South Carolina (USC) National Center for First-Year Experience Advisory.

Her outstanding contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the USC Distinguished Black Alumni Award and the South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners 2024 Chief Executive Officer Award. In 2024, Dr. Rivers was elected as the SC Technical College System Presidents’ Council Chair. She was also honored with a commemorative brick on the historic University of South Carolina Horseshoe.

As a first-generation college student from a small rural town, Dr. Rivers serves as an inspiring role model, tirelessly working to enhance student success and drive economic mobility in South Carolina through technical education.