JOIN THE CHAMBER
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
EVENTS CALENDAR
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) and Visit Myrtle Beach are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Lori A. Heafner as Chair of its Board of Directors for the 2026 term. A respected leader in higher education and a committed community advocate, Dr. Heafner brings over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, workforce development and organizational leadership to the role.
“Lori brings a rare combination of visionary leadership, academic insight and deep community commitment to her new role as Chair,” said Matt Pivarnik, CEO of the chamber and Visit Myrtle Beach. “Her experience in higher education and workforce development aligns perfectly with our strategic priorities. I’m confident that under her guidance, the chamber will continue to grow its impact and foster meaningful partnerships that move our region forward.”
Dr. Heafner currently serves as Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Development at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC), where she leads key college functions including institutional research, accreditation, strategic planning and grant development. Her visionary leadership has helped secure more than $10 million in grant funding for regional workforce initiatives, including the development of the new Marine Technology Center in Georgetown.
A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Heafner holds a Ph.D. in Educational Sciences from Coastal Carolina University and has built her career on a foundation of community college access, data-informed decision making and student success. She is also an active scholar and speaker on topics such as vertical transfer policy and other topics on Two Year College Outcomes.
She has served on the chamber’s Board of Directors since 2023 and as Vice Chair since 2024. She also contributes her time to numerous community service efforts, including literacy initiatives, economic development partnerships, and youth support programs.
“As Chair, I look forward to continuing the chamber’s vital work in strengthening our region’s economic growth, supporting small businesses, and aligning education and workforce efforts,” Dr. Heafner said. “It’s an honor to serve a community I care deeply about and to help advance the strategic priorities of this vibrant and growing region.”
Patrick Norton, Chief Marketing Officer of Brittain Resorts & Hotels and 2025 Chair of the MBACC Board of Directors, expressed his support. “Lori understands how education drives our local economy by growing talent, expanding opportunity, and strengthening our workforce. I have no doubt the chamber will keep gaining momentum under her leadership, and I’m proud to pass the torch to someone so deeply invested in our community’s success.”
The chamber welcomes Heafner’s leadership and expertise as it continues its mission to promote, protect and improve the Myrtle Beach area’s thriving business environment and quality of life.
The MBACC board is made up of volunteers who are nominated and elected by chamber members to serve three-year terms. For more information on the current board members or on joining the chamber, visit MyrtleBeachAreaChamber.com.