Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) proudly celebrates Dr. Jacqueline Inabinette on being named a recipient of the prestigious 2026 South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA) Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the highest honors bestowed upon veteran educational leaders in the state.
The SCASA Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes exceptional administrators who have demonstrated a lifetime of service, leadership, and impact in advancing public education across South Carolina. Dr. Inabinette joins a distinguished group of leaders whose careers reflect sustained excellence and unwavering commitment to students and school communities.
With an extraordinary 35-year career in education, Dr. Inabinette has made a lasting impact across multiple districts and leadership roles. She currently serves as Assistant Principal at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, where her leadership continues to strengthen instructional practices, enhance student support systems, and foster a positive school culture grounded in high expectations.
Prior to her current role, Dr. Inabinette served as Assistant Superintendent and Director of Safety and Special Projects for Clarendon County School District, where she led initiatives that significantly improved school safety, student outcomes, and academic achievement. Her extensive career also includes service as Executive Director of Federal Programs and Accountability and Principal in Orangeburg Consolidated School District 5, further reflecting her depth of experience and commitment to educational excellence.
Dr. Inabinette’s leadership is defined by her strategic vision, collaborative approach, and steadfast focus on ensuring that all students have access to safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environments.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Inabinette. “Education has been my life’s work, and I remain committed to serving students, supporting educators, and contributing to the continued success of our schools and communities.”
Dr. Patricia Goldsmith, Principal of Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, shared her pride in Dr. Inabinette’s recognition. “Dr. Inabinette is the embodiment of excellence in educational leadership,” said Dr. Goldsmith. “Her depth of experience, her commitment to doing what is best for students, and her ability to lead with both strength and compassion make her truly deserving of this honor. She is a tremendous asset to Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate this well-earned recognition, shared Dr. Goldsmith.”
OCSD Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster praised Dr. Inabinette’s legacy of leadership and impact. “Dr. Inabinette’s career is a powerful reflection of what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and excellence,” said Dr. Foster. “Her influence on students, educators, and school systems across South Carolina is both profound and enduring. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her as a recipient of the 2026 SCASA Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Dr. Inabinette will be formally recognized during the SCASA Awards Dinner on May 13, 2026, and again at the Innovative Ideas Institute (i3) in June, where education leaders from across the state gather to celebrate innovation and excellence in education.
A graduate of South Carolina State University, Dr. Inabinette holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and is widely respected for her commitment to advancing student achievement and strengthening educational systems.
Orangeburg County School District congratulates Dr. Jacqueline Inabinette on this well-deserved honor and celebrates her lifetime of service to public education in South Carolina.