Columbia Welcomes New Leader for Environmental Services!
Columbia, S.C. – Big news in the Palmetto State! Governor Henry McMaster has just appointed Myra Reece as the first-ever director of the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, or SCDES for short. This marks an exciting new chapter for environmental governance in the state, and it comes with a lot of responsibility and opportunity!
Who is Myra Reece?
Myra isn’t just any fresh face in the office; she has been steering South Carolina’s environmental affairs for over 30 years! Before stepping into this role, she was the Interim Director of SCDES. She previously held the vital position of Director of Environmental Affairs at the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, DHEC, from December 2015 until the agency was restructured in July 2024. Under the new law, the SCDES is poised to play a crucial role in maintaining our natural resources.
A Strong Endorsement
Governor McMaster did not hold back on his support for Reece, stating, “Through her extensive leadership experience at DHEC and now as Interim Director of SCDES, there is no one more qualified or better positioned to lead this new agency forward.” He acknowledged her expertise, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the cause, echoing the respect she has earned from both her colleagues and staff.
What Will She Do?
As the new director, Reece has an impressive array of responsibilities. She will be overseeing all aspects of the SCDES, including Air Quality, Coastal Management, Land and Waste Management, and maintaining the precious Water Resources of our great state. Reece expressed her gratitude for the governor’s nomination, stating, “I thank Governor McMaster for his nomination and support in protecting and preserving South Carolina’s critical air, land, water, and coastal resources.” It’s clear she is excited about moving ahead with her leadership role!
A Lifelong Passion for the Environment
With roots in Edgefield and currently living in North Augusta, Myra Reece is a dedicated advocate for South Carolina. She’s a proud alumna of Clemson University, where she earned a degree in microbiology, and she later obtained her master’s degree in public health from the University of South Carolina. But that’s not all! Reece is also a graduate of the Management Academy for Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Southern Center of Excellence in Environmental Health at Emory University. She even holds professional certification as a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager.
Community Engagement and Leadership
In addition to her many roles, Reece is making waves as the Chair of Governor McMaster’s WaterSC Water Resources Working Group and has recently completed her term as President of the Environmental Council of States. This national group is made up of state and territorial environmental agency leaders. Her rich background and dedication certainly speak volumes about her capacity to lead SCDES.
Family Life
Outside of her professional achievements, Myra is a family person who resides with her husband, Dan Reece. The couple has two wonderful sons, Trib and Kevin, not to mention their adorable granddaughter. It’s heartwarming to see leaders like her who balance family and a passionate commitment to public service!
The future of the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services looks promising under Myra Reece’s leadership, and her journey will surely be one to watch as she takes on the monumental task of ensuring our natural resources remain safeguarded for years to come!
