The Gateway to Innovation campus proudly bears the name of Dr. Mendel H. Stewart, honoring a lifetime of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to education in Pickens County.

Dr. Stewart began his career in Pickens County in 1967 as a teacher and coach at Dacusville High School and Pickens High School, where he fostered a love for learning and a spirit of teamwork in countless students. From 1969–1970, he served as Bus Supervisor with the South Carolina State Department of Education over the Liberty area before returning to school leadership as Assistant Principal at Liberty High School from 1970–1972.

In 1972, Dr. Stewart became Principal of Pickens Junior High School, a role he held for 17 years until 1989. During his tenure, the school experienced significant growth in enrollment and facilities. Notably, the very building that now houses the Gateway to Innovation campus was constructed under his leadership. His time as principal was marked by strong relationships with teachers, students, and administrators, and by a leadership style rooted in humility, collaboration, and trust.

Following his service as principal, Dr. Stewart continued to shape career and technical education as Director of the Pickens County Career & Technology Center from 1989–1991, helping strengthen vocational pathways for students across the county. In 1991, he moved to the District Office as Assistant Superintendent, and in 2000, he was named Superintendent of the School District of Pickens County, a position he held until his retirement in 2006. As superintendent, he led the district with vision and integrity, always surrounding himself with talented educators and leaders whom he trusted to serve students well.

Upon his retirement in 2006, Dr. Stewart was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to education and the Pickens County community. His commitment did not end there. In 2009, he returned to the district as Interim Superintendent for six months, guiding the district through a period of transition while overseeing critical building programs and navigating budget challenges.

Throughout every role he held, Dr. Stewart remained steadfast in his belief that education changes lives. Each year of his career was dedicated to improving opportunities for students and strengthening the systems that support them, leaving an indelible mark on Pickens County.

Beyond the school district, Dr. Stewart’s service extended across the region and state. He served for many years as a Board Member and Board Chair of Tri-County Technical College, reflecting his deep belief in workforce development and technical education. His leadership and expertise were also shared through service on numerous boards and commissions, including:

Tri-County Technical College Board of Trustees (Board Member & Board Chair)
South Carolina High School Redesign Commission
South Carolina Association of School Superintendents
American Association for Community College Trustees
South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners (Chairman)
Pickens County Council
Pickens County United Way
Pickens County Landowners Association (President)
Alliance Pickens Economic Development Board
Pickens First Baptist Church (Deacon and Sunday School Teacher)

Born and raised in Pickens County, Dr. Stewart and his wife—also a native of the community—chose to raise their four children here, further cementing their deep roots and lasting investment in the place they call home. His genuine heart for public education, coupled with his commitment to community service and faith, has earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Dr. Mendel Stewart is more than an educator. He is a mentor, a leader, and a true pillar of the Pickens County community.

Naming the Gateway to Innovation campus in his honor stands as a lasting tribute to his decades of service and ensures that future generations of students will learn and innovate in a place built upon his legacy.