Dr. Winnifa Clark, Holly Hill-Roberts High '85
Dr. Winnifa Clark, Holly Hill-Roberts High '85
From Holly Hill to Community Leader: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Winnifa Clark
Dr. Winnifa Clark's inspiring journey began in the Bronx but truly took shape in Holly Hill, SC, where she was raised. After attending Vance Elementary School and Dantzler Middle School, she graduated from Holly Hill-Roberts High School in 1985. Raised by a strict mother, Dr. Clark was instilled with a strong work ethic that has guided her throughout her life.
She continued her education at Rutledge College in Charleston, earning an Associate Degree in Executive Secretarial in 1989. Dr. Clark furthered her academic achievements with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Claflin University in 2012. Her commitment to education was further recognized with an honorary Doctorate degree from the School of the Great Commission Theological Seminary.
Dr. Clark made history as the first African American Orangeburg County Clerk of Court, a position she has held since 2008 following her victory in the Democratic primary. With a total of 17 years of service in the Clerk of Court’s office, including eight years as a deputy clerk, she has made a lasting impact on the community.
Beyond her role in the courthouse, Dr. Clark founded and oversees the Shepherd Outreach Ministry in Vance, SC. Her ministry, supported by contributions exceeding $7,000 annually, provides crucial resources such as free spiritual counseling, a weekly food bank, and clothing for those in need.
Dr. Clark’s role in the courthouse has inspired her to create programs aimed at curbing criminal activity and supporting the community. Her dedication to service and her innovative approaches reflect her deep understanding of her community’s needs.
Her exemplary work has earned her recognition as a "Top Ranked U.S. Executive" by the National Council of American Executives in 2014. Dr. Clark’s unwavering commitment to justice and community service stands as a powerful example of how dedication and hard work can make a profound difference.
Dr. Clark’s journey exemplifies the remarkable achievements that can come from the nurturing environment of Orangeburg County schools.
This piece is part of an ongoing series telling the stories of our OCSD Alumni! We share a new alumni story once a month, and we want YOUR story. If you or someone you know is a OCSD graduate and an excellent representative of the Danville community and the idea of #WeAreOne, whether they live in Orangeburg County or not, please fill out the form linked below. You can also show your OCSD Alumni pride on social media with the hashtag #OCSDAlumniStories