President Michael Mikota

Dr. Michael Mikota is a visionary leader and serves as the seventh president of Spartanburg Community College. 

Dr. Mikota has made remarkable progress since assuming the presidency in July 2020, transforming the College into one of the fastest-growing public institutions in South Carolina in the past two decades. This notable accomplishment is attributable to his tireless efforts to modernize and reinvigorate the College's administrative framework, foster key regional collaborations, and introduce pioneering tuition-free programs.

A native of Gaffney, Dr. Mikota holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wofford College, a Master of Business Administration from Gardner-Webb University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Policy Studies from Clemson University. During his time at Clemson, he was a prominent figure on campus, serving as President of the Graduate Student Body, a National Fellow with the U.S. Government, a Watershed Policy Director, researcher and lecturer.

Following his time at Clemson, Dr. Mikota was recruited to serve as a Senior Analyst for the U.S. Government Accountability Office in Washington, D.C. At the GAO, he played a pivotal role as an auditor during the 2008 Financial Crisis, contributing his unique expertise to the nation's efforts to recover from the economic downturn. However, his time in the nation's capital was not only professionally significant; it was also where he met his wife, Camila, making it a special time for him both personally and professionally.

After dedicating several years of distinguished service to the federal government, getting married to Camila, and welcoming their first child, Dr. Mikota felt a strong pull to return to his beloved home state of South Carolina. He answered that call by accepting the position of Executive Director of the Santee-Lynches Regional Council of Governments. In 2017, he was appointed as the President of Central Carolina Technical College, where he excelled in his role and made significant contributions to the institution. He also served as the Chairman of the South Carolina Technical College System Council of Presidents. 

Dr. Mikota's remarkable achievements in higher education led to his eventual appointment as the President of Spartanburg Community College, where he continues to make a positive impact.

Dr. Mikota is an acknowledged authority on the intersection between higher education and the economy. His expertise has led him to serve on several councils, task forces, and advisory boards at both the regional and state levels, including the South Carolina Coordinating Council on Workforce Development, the South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Board, and the South Carolina Board of Economic Advisors.

In addition to his leadership at Spartanburg Community College, Dr. Mikota brings his valuable insights and experience to these roles, where he works tirelessly to deliver a positive impact on the economy of South Carolina. Through his work on these councils and task forces, he is helping to create a more prosperous future for the people and industry of the state.