A Life Invested in Others: USCA Honors Liz Stewart with Honorary Doctorate

Entrepreneur, mentor and philanthropist recognized for decades of leadership and support for students and innovation.

One local entrepreneur and community leader puts her passion for others’ success into action at USCA. 

Dr. Liz Stewart routinely invests her time, talent, expertise and resources into programs, scholarships and initiatives that ensure Pacers achieve their personal, academic and professional goals. 

She has a special penchant for the entrepreneurial spirit and often develops programs and opportunities that foster start-up foundations and long-term success of students going into business for themselves.  

Her philanthropy is centered on the Dr. Liz Stewart Innovation Program Fund, which fuels bold, creative ideas that drive meaningful progress across the university. The fund empowers faculty and staff to pursue projects beyond existing operations, opening new pathways for excellence. Selection for support is both a mark of distinction and a recognition of innovative thinking that moves USCA forward. 

“Liz’s generosity is both transformative and contagious. She not only invests in ideas and people; she inspires others to do the same, strengthening the culture of innovation that defines USCA,” said Daniel P. Elwell, vice chancellor for development and alumni relations. 

For her longstanding support to the university, USCA Chancellor Daniel Heimmermann awarded Stewart an honorary doctorate degree in public service during the spring commencement ceremony May 6. The honor was also based on Stewart’s outstanding leadership in business and organizational development; her unwavering commitment to community service and economic advancement; and her mentorship of students, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders.

Stewart’s impact extends deeply into the Aiken community and USCA. She currently chairs the Aiken Partnership Board and the USCA School of Business Administration Advisory Board, and has played a key role in strengthening connections between the university and regional business leaders.  

As one of USCA’s critical partners, she has been actively engaged in strategic planning efforts, served twice as executive-in-residence, and mentored countless students and aspiring entrepreneurs. Her commitment includes not only her time and expertise, but also her philanthropic support through her namesake innovation program fund. 

A dedicated civic leader, Stewart has served on more than 80 boards and commissions, including leadership roles with the Aiken County Planning Commission, Rural Health Services, the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and numerous nonprofit and cultural organizations. Her contributions have been widely recognized, including honors as Aiken Chamber Woman of the Year, USCA Distinguished Partner, and USCA Distinguished Citizen of the Year. 

Stewart, chair emerita of Stewart and Associates, Inc., is a nationally recognized leader in organizational development, strategic planning, and executive leadership. She earned several degrees from the University of Florida, including an undergraduate degree in education with specializations in Spanish and French, a master’s degree in psychology, a doctorate in economics, and a juris doctor. 

She began her career with Xerox Corporation, where she served for 15 years in roles of increasing responsibility, ultimately becoming the company’s first female vice president in organizational development and strategic planning services. In 1984, she founded Stewart and Associates, Inc., a consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations operate more effectively through leadership development, human resource strategy, and organizational change. In four decades, the firm grew to more than 200 employees and served clients ranging from entrepreneurial startups to Fortune 100 companies.  

In 2022, she transitioned ownership of the company to its employees, further demonstrating her commitment to leadership and sustainability. 

A prolific thought leader, Stewart is the author of “Back to the Basics in Strategic Planning and Leading the Disciplined Organization.” She is widely sought as a speaker and advisor, known for her ability to connect with leaders at every level — from corporate executives to community volunteers. 

“Dr. Stewart has long been a steadfast champion for this university and for our students. Her commitment runs deeper than advocacy. She is driven to ensure others succeed, and she invests herself fully in that mission,” Heimmermann said.  

“Because of her mentorship and unwavering dedication, countless Pacers, including members of our faculty, have realized meaningful academic, personal and professional success.” 

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