After 37 years of service, Executive Director Randy Akers has announced his retirement from South Carolina Humanities effective June 30, 2025.
Statewide Impact
As the longest-serving executive director of a state humanities organization, Akers has been a tireless advocate for the humanities in our state and nation. Through his leadership, SC Humanities has offered countless innovative programs and impactful grants. These initiatives have enriched communities and fostered a deeper appreciation for the cultural organizations, activities, and historical events unique to South Carolina.
Akers began his public humanities career with the Florida Endowment for the Humanities as Program Officer in 1984 and after moving up to the role of Assistant Director with that agency, he came to South Carolina as Executive Director in 1988. During his tenure, numerous signature programs were added including the annual Humanities Awards presentation (1991), the annual statewide Humanities Festival (1993), the South Carolina Book Festival (1997-2015), and the Museum on Main Street program (2004). He was a driving force behind The South Carolina Encyclopedia, which sold more than 20,000 copies and is now adapted in an influential digital version.
Partnerships
With Akers at the helm, SCH cultivated key partnerships and collaborative relationships around the state, expanding the reach and impact of the organization. He developed and grew the SCH Friends’ group, creating a loyal cadre of donors committed to SCH’s events, programs, and mission. He built a strong working Board of Directors who represent diverse cultural and professional communities. He worked closely and well with his peers and colleagues at the SC Arts Commission, the SC Department of Education, the National Humanities Alliance, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and numerous community organizations and their leaders across the state, the southeast, and the nation.
Recognition
Akers has been honored with several awards for promoting literature and literacy in South Carolina: the Augusta Baker Award from Richland County Library, the Literacy Leadership Award from the USC School of Library Sciences, and the Frances Mims-Paul Talmadge Award from the South Carolina Academy of Authors. SCH has also been recognized for its work under Akers’s leadership: the Richland-Lexington County Cultural Council Award and a Governor’s Award (previously Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Award) presented by the South Carolina Arts Commission. SCH renamed its Fresh Voices award The Akers Prize to honor individuals who, like Akers, use history and culture to bring people together. His most recent publication is Golden, an apt title for the work documenting SCH’s first 50 years.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve as Executive Director of SC Humanities,” said Akers. “There is a rich history to this organization built upon the founders in 1972-73: the first board members and first director, LeLand Cox. I have been blessed to work alongside dedicated staff, board members, partners, and citizens throughout the state, all who shared a passion for the humanities and what they mean for our quality of life. I look forward to the new direction, the diversification of people and programs, and a continued commitment to excellence as SCH faces the future.”
Akers’s retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy and the foundation he has established will endure for years to come. SC Humanities has partnered with Find Great People, LLC to lead the search process for a new Executive Director, ensuring a smooth transition and the continuation of SCH’s vital work. Interested candidates can view the Position Profile, including application instructions, using the following link: SCH Executive Director Profile. Interested candidates may also contact Christin Mack with Find Great People at cmack@fgp.com with any questions.