The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education mourns the passing of former Interim Executive Director Mike LeFever, whose leadership and dedication left a lasting mark on higher education in our state.

LeFever came out of retirement to serve his state by stepping into the role of interim executive director at CHE in 2019. During this time of transition, he provided steady guidance and focused on repairing relationships, building bridges, and restoring confidence in the agency’s work. 

Before his time at the Commission, he served more than a decade as president and CEO of South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU), where he secured vital resources for students and institutions, strengthened collaboration across the higher education community, and advanced opportunities for students. Over the course of his career, LeFever served almost three decades in state government as the director of four different state agencies, including the Workers’ Compensation Commission for thirteen years, and as Deputy Chief of Staff for Executive Office Programs and Cabinet Affairs for then-Governor Jim Hodges.

“Mike LeFever exemplified public service throughout his career,” said Dr. Jeff Perez, CHE President and Executive Director. “At CHE, he brought stability, experience, and a collaborative spirit when it was needed most. His impact on higher education in South Carolina, from his years in state government to his leadership of SCICU, will continue to benefit students for generations.”

His commitment to public service was recognized by the General Assembly, which honored him with a Senate Resolution in 2018, and by the Governor’s Office with the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.