Senate Confirms Catherine Heigel to Lead DHEC

The South Carolina Senate confirmed Catherine Heigel as the Director of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

Catherine Heigel confirmed as the Director of DHEC

“We are pleased that the Senate has confirmed Catherine Heigel as our next Director,” said Allen Amsler, chairman of the S.C. Board of Health and Environmental Control. “With her knowledge in law, regulation and management, Catherine has the leadership experience and skills necessary to continue the Board’s vision and move the agency forward.”

Heigel was selected in April by the Board to serve as the agency’s leader following a nationwide search.

“I’m honored and grateful to be entrusted with leading an agency that oversees issues that are important to and impact the lives of all South Carolinians,” said Heigel. “I look forward to working with the members of the Board, DHEC’s talented staff and the citizens of this great state to uphold the agency’s mission to promote and protect the health of the public and the environment of South Carolina.”

Heigel previously served as General Counsel and Corporate Strategies Officer for Elliott Davis Decosimo, LLC. Prior to her employment at Elliott Davis Decosimo, she served as President of Duke Energy South Carolina. In addition, she held a position as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at the American Transmission Company.

Heigel earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of South Carolina, and her law degree from The Ohio State University School of Law.

She assumed her duties as agency director immediately upon confirmation.