For Ms. Heather Holliday, education has been her career and calling. With 34 years of experience in education and six years at Erskine, Ms. Holliday has dedicated her professional life to supporting students, empowering educators, and finding meaningful ways to strengthen schools and communities. Her passion for service, commitment to student success, and belief in the power of teamwork made her the perfect fit for Employee of the Year.
Ms. Holliday’s journey into education began unexpectedly during her senior year of high school. At the time, she was focused on becoming a pediatrician, inspired by her own experiences with childhood illness and a desire to give back to others. However, when she needed one more elective to complete her schedule, a former English teacher encouraged her to take Teacher Cadets. That single class changed the direction of her future.
Ms. Holliday entered Winthrop University determined to become a high school science teacher, beginning a career that would grow into a lifelong commitment to education and leadership. As her passion for helping students expanded, she pursued opportunities to make an impact on a larger scale. Her career included serving as an academic coach, academy director, and assistant principal of curriculum and instruction at T.L. Hanna High School, followed by a role as Facilitator of Accountability and Data for Anderson School District Four.
Then came a new opportunity—and a conversation with “Mr. V” that would lead Ms. Holliday to Erskine and the charter school movement. Embracing this next chapter allowed her to continue doing what she loves most: finding ways to serve students, support educators, and help schools succeed.
One of Ms. Holliday’s most memorable experiences at Erskine was her first Awards Banquet with the Institute. Having spent much of her career in education, she was struck by how intentionally the event celebrated every aspect of the educational community. For Ms. Holliday, the experience was especially meaningful because it highlighted individuals who contribute so much to schools but may not always receive the recognition they deserve. Selecting the recipient was exciting, but presenting the award and seeing the recipient’s surprised expression and joyful smile made the moment unforgettable.
That experience reinforced why Ms. Holliday believes so strongly in The Institute’s mission. Success in education is a team effort, and every member of that team deserves to be valued and supported. By celebrating others, The Institute creates a culture in which people feel appreciated and encouraged to continue making a difference.
When asked what she loves most about working for Erskine, Ms. Holliday points to the organization’s focus on students and its commitment to serving others. Her approach to education is deeply rooted in faith and the belief that the opportunities we are given come with a responsibility to help those around us. As Ms. Holliday explains, if we can help students and families, we should. She believes Erskine provides a meaningful opportunity to put that principle into action, aligning the organization’s mission with her personal commitment to service. Heather’s work is about more than meeting goals or completing tasks; it is about recognizing needs, responding with compassion, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
That same mindset shapes Ms. Holliday’s enthusiasm for charter schools. She appreciates the flexibility and willingness to seek new solutions to support students, schools, and communities. When a need arises, she believes in doing what is possible to address it. Although she recognizes that the work is challenging, she also knows it is worthwhile.
“We realize the work is hard, but we also realize the work is GOOD!” Ms. Holliday shared – a statement that captures both her determination and her belief in the value of the Institute’s mission.
Throughout her career, Ms. Holliday has also relied on a few guiding principles to help her navigate life’s challenges. One of her favorites came from her mother, who often reminded her, “This too shall pass.” That simple phrase taught Ms. Holliday to maintain perspective during difficult seasons and to look for the silver lining in every situation. Rather than allowing challenges to define a moment, she strives to find the good and move forward with hope.
Ms. Holliday also prioritizes what she considers the foundation of a meaningful life: Faith, Family, and Friends. She believes we are not meant to navigate life alone and encourages others to lean on God and the people who love and support them. These values influence not only how she approaches life outside of work but also how she works to serve others in education.
Another mantra Ms. Holliday lives by is one that perfectly reflects her approach to education and leadership: Always try to leave things better than you find them. It is a simple philosophy, but one with a powerful message. Whether supporting a school, recognizing a colleague, helping a student, or identifying a new way to meet a community’s needs, Ms. Holliday strives to make every situation better through her efforts. It is also a philosophy she sees reflected throughout the Institute, where collaboration, innovation, and service remain at the heart of the work.
Ms. Heather Holliday’s selection as Employee of the Year celebrates not only her extensive experience and professional accomplishments but also the values she brings to her work every day. Her career reflects a willingness to grow, embrace new opportunities, and continually seek ways to serve others. She understands that meaningful progress happens when people work together, recognize one another’s contributions, and remain focused on the students and families who depend on them.
After 34 years in education, Ms. Holliday’s commitment to making a difference remains as strong as ever. Through her leadership, faith, compassion, and dedication to the mission of Erskine and The Institute, she reminds us that the most meaningful work is often the work we do for others.
Congratulations to Ms. Heather Holliday, our Employee of the Year! Thank you for your dedication, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to leaving education, and the lives you touch, better than you found them.
