Lancaster County School District Honors Education Hall of Fame Inductees and 82 Retirees
Lancaster, SC – The Lancaster County School District celebrated the induction of two esteemed individuals into its Education Hall of Fame and honored 82 dedicated retirees at a special event held on May 5, 2025.
Louis Canty and Venise Grier were formally inducted into the Education Hall of Fame for their significant contributions to the district and its students.
Henry Louis Canty, who taught at Dobson Elementary during the 1970s, was recognized for his profound impact as a mentor to numerous young men and women, encouraging their success. His daughter, Trell Canty Belk, accepted the award on behalf of her family, sharing memories of the community’s support following Mr. Canty’s passing at a young age.
Venise Grier was introduced by Richard Gay, a former Lancaster High School teacher and fellow Education Hall of Fame member. Mr. Gay highlighted Mrs. Grier’s extensive career, which began at Stevenson Correctional Institution before she joined the Lancaster County School District. Her roles included Itinerant Resource Teacher at Dobson Elementary, Self-Contained Special Education teacher at Lancaster High School, Instructional Mentor, and the district’s Induction and Mentoring Coordinator. Mrs. Grier also served as a Board Member and President of the Palmetto State Teachers Association, mentoring hundreds of educators throughout her career.
The Lancaster County School District Hall of Fame recognizes individuals from various categories, including teachers, administrators, board members, and community members who have significantly impacted education in the district. Nominations are accepted annually from May through January.
The celebration, held at the Lancaster Multipurpose Building, also honored 82 retirees for their years of dedicated service to the Lancaster County School District. The honored individuals included those who retired between March 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025, as well as retirees from 2020-2024 who had not been previously recognized.
The Lancaster High School JROTC presented the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance, while Chiffon Johnson, LCSD Receptionist, performed the National Anthem. Superintendent Dr. Raashad Fitzpatrick welcomed guests before a meal catered by My Sistas and I Catering, LLC.
Each retiree was individually announced and received a Service Award and a Tree of Life Bookend inscribed with a message of appreciation for their timeless service and dedication. Dr. Carl Carpenter, II, Chief Human Resources Officer, Dr. Fitzpatrick, and Mr. Melvin Stroble, LCSD Board Chair, congratulated the retirees and expressed their gratitude for their commitment to the students and community. Mr. Stroble concluded the evening by encouraging the retirees to remain connected with the district through social media and the district app. The event highlighted the lasting impact of connections within the Lancaster County School District community.
