Education

Ph.D. (in progress), Library and Information Science, University of South Carolina
MLIS, University of South Carolina
B.S., Business Administration, University of South Carolina

Responsibilities

Randy Heath serves as the graduate advisor for the School of Information Science, where he advises MLIS General Track students and supports their academic progression and success. As the iSchool craduate career coordinator, he leads initiatives to enhance career development, employer engagement, and independent study and internship opportunities for graduate students. 

He also contributes to the iSchool’s instructional mission as a subject matter expert and teaching assistant for the Certificate in Library Studies, and serves as both an adjunct instructor and graduate course assistant for selected MLIS courses. In addition, Randy supports community engagement and literacy efforts as a dedicated member of Team Augusta Baker, under the Augusta Baker Chair at the University of South Carolina.

Background

Randy Heath is an award-winning librarian with a dynamic background in library leadership, workforce development, higher education and community engagement. He currently serves at the University of South Carolina and previously held leadership roles at Orangeburg County Library and Richland Library, where he managed a branch and led organizational racial equity and staff development initiatives. Earlier, he worked in workforce development at Midlands Technical College, Central Midlands Council of Governments and the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. He also co-directed a volunteer-led equity initiative. Known for his bold, kind and authentic leadership, Randy brings LIS expertise and national experience as a facilitator, trainer and speaker.

Awards

•  University of South Carolina College of Information and Communications Staff Impact Award (2025)
• American Library Association Emerging Leader (2024)
• American Library Association Spectrum Scholar (2021–2022)
• University of South Carolina Augusta Baker Scholar (2021–2022)
• South Carolina Library Association Scholarship for Diversity in Librarianship Recipient (2021–2022)
• Black Caucus of the American Library Association Smiley Student Award Recipient (2021)
• Richland Library “Let’s Talk Race” Initiative – Honorable Mention by Urban Libraries Council (2017)
• Junior League of Columbia “Friend of the League” Award – awarded to the Let’s Talk Race team (2021–2022)

Personal

Outside of his professional work, Heath enjoys spending quality time with his wife, four children, niece, nephew and extended family and friends. His hobbies include grilling, coaching youth basketball, sports, cracking jokes, playing video games and indulging in the occasional milkshake.

He credits his continued growth and success to the unwavering support of his incredible family and the invaluable guidance of mentors and advisors who have shaped his journey.