The Greenville County Schools Hall of Fame recently celebrated the induction of six new members. This year’s class includes five alumni and one distinguished former educator, all recognized for their significant contributions across various fields such as education, arts, sports, business, media, public service, philanthropy, medicine, military, and science.
The honors were bestowed during a gala event on November 21 at the Greenville Convention Center.
2024 Graduate Inductees
Kahran Bethencourt
A graduate of Wade Hampton High School in 1998, Bethencourt is a celebrated child photographer and co-founder of CreativeSoul Photography based in Atlanta. Her work is known for uplifting children of color, and she has received the NAACP Image Award. She is also recognized as a Canon Explorer of Light and is a New York Times bestselling author for her books “Glory” and “Crowned.”
Johnny Mack Brown
Graduating from Greenville Senior High Academy in 1955, Brown became the Greenville County Sheriff in 1976. He played a key role in modernizing the sheriff’s department and has held leadership positions such as president of the National Sheriffs’ Association. Additionally, he was appointed U.S. Marshal for South Carolina in 2002 and served as interim sheriff from 2018 to 2020.
Daniel Miyares
An award-winning picture book author and illustrator, Miyares graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1988. His popular works include titles like “Float” and “Bring Me a Rock!” He also illustrated the Newbery Honor Medal-winning book “The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams,” along with Langston Hughes’s poem “Dream Variations.”
Dr. Bethany Smith
A 2002 graduate of Southside High School, Dr. Smith has made strides in prostate cancer research and treatment at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. After serving in various academic roles, she has returned to South Carolina to continue her work in oncology and genetics.
Virginia Uldrick, Ph.D. (awarded posthumously)
Honored posthumously, Uldrick graduated from Greenville Senior High Academy in 1946. She founded the Fine Arts Center in Greenville and was the first president of the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities. Uldrick also served as the supervisor of music and director of fine arts for Greenville County Schools and received significant accolades, including the Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Award.
2024 Educator Inductee
Katherine Howard, Ph.D.
With over 30 years in education and administration within South Carolina, Dr. Howard has previously been the associate superintendent for student performance at GCS. She has served on the international board for the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development and has chaired the Advancement Board at Clemson University’s College of Education.
This gala reflected the remarkable achievements of these individuals, showcasing their dedication and impact in their respective fields.
