Cathi Mack, who served over three decades at SC State’s Miller F. Whittaker Library, was honored with the 2024 Hall of Fame Award from the South Carolina Library Association during its Annual Conference Awards Ceremony. This accolade underscores her outstanding dedication to library services and advocacy for professional diversity.
“Cathi Mack is an indomitable force,” said Gerald Moore, branch manager at the Dorchester Road Library in North Charleston, who nominated Mack for the award. “Having witnessed the tremendous work she does for the library profession and her outstanding community service and engagement, it is an honor to work with her through the state library organization.”
A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Mack graduated from SC State in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in marketing. She later obtained her Master of Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina. Since joining SC State, she has held various positions, currently serving as the coordinator of technical services, instructor, and assistant to the dean.
Mack’s commitment to supporting students and enhancing the representation of diverse voices in libraries is evident in her role as chair of SCLA’s Scholarship for Diversity in Librarianship Committee since 2007. Under her leadership, the committee has raised more than $47,700 to provide scholarships that significantly alleviate the financial burden for students of color pursuing library and information science degrees.
A Community Advocate
Beyond her professional achievements, Mack is deeply engaged in her university and local community. She co-chairs the Founders’ Day program at SC State, serves on the Commencement Convocation Committee, and participates in the Knowledge is Power Mentoring program. Additionally, she is involved with the GirlTrek Student Organization and mentors students through the Chesterfield County Public School System.
Her community involvement extends further, including projects such as the SC State University’s Open Educational Resources initiative and housing assistance advocacy efforts with the NAACP and United Way.
Mack’s steadfast dedication to her profession and community exemplifies the spirit of service and advocacy that the Hall of Fame Award aims to celebrate, making her a remarkable figure within the HBCU and library communities.