Columbia Native Honored with South Carolina’s Highest Award
Columbia, South Carolina – In a heartwarming ceremony, Seema Shrivastava-Patel, a proud native of Columbia and former chair of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), was awarded the prestigious Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in the state. This recognition not only highlights her achievements but also celebrates her significant contributions to the community and the state.
A Trailblazer in Leadership
In her acceptance speech, Shrivastava-Patel expressed her deep gratitude and emphasized that the award stands not just for her hard work but for everyone who has supported her journey. “This is an incredible honor,” she said. “But this honor isn’t just for me. It’s for my parents who moved here from India with nothing more than $100 in their pocket. It’s for all the women who came before me and paved the way so I could stand here today.” This acknowledgment is a humble reminder of the sacrifices made by her family and the support from her husband and children.
Appointed in 2017, Shrivastava-Patel made history as the first woman of color to serve on the DHEC board. She held the position of vice-chair from 2021 to 2023 and transitioned to chair from 2023 to 2024. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in steering the agency’s policies and overseeing operations. Perhaps most notably, she was a guiding force during the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic, helping to navigate the state’s health responses.
Impact on Public Health and Services
Governor Henry McMaster praised her dedication, stating, “Seema Shrivastava’s commitment to public service and her leadership in our business community has truly impacted our state.” Under her leadership, DHEC transitioned into the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services and Department of Public Health, showcasing her ability to lead through change and adversity.
Beyond her work with DHEC, Shrivastava-Patel has an impressive career in the convenience industry, serving as the CEO of Carolina Convenience Corp. Her operations support over 600 employees, demonstrating her commitment to economic growth in South Carolina. However, her work doesn’t stop there.
Dedication to Charitable Causes
Throughout her career, Shrivastava-Patel has been heavily involved in charitable pursuits, raising funds for various causes, such as breast cancer research and muscular dystrophy. She’s been a strong supporter of organizations like Harvest Hope Food Bank, Palmetto Children’s Hospital, and the Wounded Warrior Project, highlighting her belief in giving back to the community.
One of her most remarkable achievements is the creation of the SC Mobile Maternity Care Unit project, an initiative designed to provide vital pre- and postnatal care to women in rural areas of South Carolina. Recently, the project reached a milestone by securing $1.2 million in state funding, marking it as the first state-funded project of its kind in the United States.
Personal Life and Legacy
Living in Lexington with her husband and two children, Shrivastava-Patel continues to inspire those around her. She has shattered glass ceilings as the first woman of color to lead the South Carolina Association of Convenience Stores and the South Carolina Petroleum Marketers Association. Her legacy is a beautiful tapestry of leadership, compassion, and relentless service.
This latest honor is not merely a celebration of past accomplishments but a sign of inspiring future endeavors. As she continues her journey, it’s clear that Seema Shrivastava-Patel is a beacon of hope and progress for South Carolina, reminding us all that together, we can achieve incredible things.
