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HGTC Establishes The Derris Green Memorial Scholarship

(Conway, SC) 12/18/2023

Derris Green Memorial Scholarship

Derris Green and his family (left to right) - Shaliyah Green, niece, Doryan Green, brother, D'Asia Baccus, niece, Glendora Spears, Mom, Derris Green, Joe Spears, Dad, Daisha Green, sister, Dallas Green, niece

Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) announced the establishment of the Derris Green Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished culinary student whose memory will forever live on at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach. 

As a Culinary Arts student, Derris Green brought his kind and optimistic personality, military work ethic, and passion into his classes and numerous extracurricular activities.  From the moment he stepped into the doors of the International Culinary Institute on the HGTC Grand Strand Campus, he made his presence known and left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

“Derris was not only a culinary enthusiast but also the guardian of our culinary garden. He took extraordinary care of the equipment in the greenhouse, meticulously tended to the garden beds, and maintained the irrigation systems with unwavering dedication. His knowledge extended to every plant variety we had, and he diligently researched the life cycles of each one. Derris' passion was evident in his relentless efforts to save and nurture every plant, and he weeded the garden not only with his hands but also with his heart,” said Chef Catherine Medrano, HGTC Professor of Culinary Arts.   

Derris brought all of himself to the table - his personality, strength, life experiences, military skills, a "go-get-it" attitude, and an ever-present, genuine smile that brightened our days. 

Derris' pursuit of a culinary education was marked by unparalleled zeal. He ventured beyond the confines of the classroom and lab, actively seeking opportunities to contribute and learn. In his free time and between classes, he eagerly lent a helping hand in the restaurant kitchen. His commitment was so remarkable that certain tasks requiring patience and tenacity were reserved specifically for him.

“The Derris Green Memorial Scholarship is a testament to the profound impact he had on his classmates and the sincere support of esteemed Chef Instructors. Derris' presence in the halls of ICI will be sorely missed, but his memory and legacy will continue to inspire culinary students for generations to come,” said Chef Medrano. 

The purpose of the HGTC Foundation is to raise funds to support the programs, services, and activities of HGTC, its students and employees, and to create and strengthen positive relations between the College and the community.  

For more information, contact the HGTC Foundation at 843-477-2105 or visit the website