Outstanding Leaders Under 40 Randy Dendy ’06

Randy Dendy holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Claflin University and an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from Furman University. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at Clemson University.

Beginning his career as a 4th and 5th-grade teacher in Laurens School District 55, he taught diverse classes, including single-gender, departmentalized math and science, looping, and traditional classes. His exceptional teaching led to his recognition as Laurens Elementary Teacher of the Year and Laurens School District 55 District Teacher of the Year.

In 2012, he transitioned to Spartanburg School District 7 as a reading coach and received the Teacher of the Year award at Mary H. Wright Elementary.

In 2014, Dendy became the assistant principal at Mary H. Wright Elementary School, where his leadership drove academic improvements and reduced behavioral referrals. He continued his ascent in 2016 when named Principal of Laurens Elementary, maintaining an above-average school rating and avoiding inclusion in the Underperforming Subgroup list for the 2019-2020 school year.

In addition to his educational roles, Dendy served as an adjunct professor at Furman University and was a prominent guest panelist at national conferences, notably a conference on rural school leadership at Virginia Tech University. His accomplishments include special recognitions for Measures of Academic Progress scores, South Carolina Palmetto Assessment of State Standards scores, and the Call Me MiSTER Trailblazer Award.

In 2020, Dendy assumed the role of Chief Academic Officer at Legacy Early College in Greenville, overseeing principals, faculty, and staff members. With over 15 years of experience in administration, coaching, and teaching, he excels in assessing students' needs, supporting their learning for exams, and adeptly managing budgets and human resources.

Randy cherishes time with his wife and three daughters, bonding over their love for travel, reading, and daily devotionals.