South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster nominated Indian American Seema Shrivastava-Patel as the next chair of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) Board on March 15, 2023.
Columbia-native Shrivastava-Patel has served on the Board since 2018 and been vice chair since 2021. As a member of the Board, she helped navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, led the search for a new agency director, improved customer service, renewed a focus on recruitment and retention of staff, and emphasized the importance of measurable outcomes for the agency, the Governor’s office stated.
An Aspen Global Leadership Network Liberty Fellow and seasoned businesswoman, Shrivastava-Patel has two decades of experience in the convenience and food service industry and as president of the Carolina Convenience Corporation (CCC).
Citing her credentials and experience with the board, Governor McMaster said, "Her extensive knowledge of the agency and her experience as Vice Chair enabled her to be the best choice to lead a smooth transition that will propel the agency forward and advance South Carolina's public health and environmental missions."
Reacting to the appointment, the Lexington resident said, "I am grateful to Governor McMaster for entrusting me with the opportunity to serve as the next Chair and am looking forward to working with my colleagues, as well as DHEC's team of talented and dedicated employees, to continue to move the agency forward for the people of South Carolina."
The governor's appointment is subject to senate approval. If confirmed, Shrivastava-Patel will become the first woman of color to serve as Board chair, the Governor’s office added.
