David H. Drayton

David H. Drayton, of Georgetown, has provided educational and civic leadership in South Carolina for more than 40 years.

Drayton served as principal of Howard High School for 21 years until it closed in 1984, when the predominantly black school merged with mostly white Winyah School to form Georgetown High School. A South Carolina historical marker was placed in front of the Howard school site in 1986.

Drayton co-chaired the steering committee that organized the 2001 visit of the Freedom Schooner Amistad in Georgetown. The ship, which was docked at Georgetown Landing Marina, was the focus of a community-wide series of events including student educational forums, public discussions and other events relating to the history of the Amistad incident. He also served as chairman of Georgetown's Committee for African-American Historical Observances, chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Georgetown Housing Authority and a member of the Georgetown County AIDS Task Force.

Through the Art Works continuing education program in Gerogetown County, Drayton taught a course on the history of blacks in Georgetown County with his friend Florida Yeldell, who received an honorary degree from the University in 2004.

In 2001, Drayton was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the state's highest civilian award. Created by Gov. John West in 1971, the award is designed to honor lifetime achievement and service to the state and nation.

Drayton received the honorary degree Doctor of Humane Letters from Coastal Carolina University during the May 2003 commencement ceremony.