SCICU Legislative Spotlight: House Majority Leader David R. (Davey) Hiott

1. Why did you decide to attend Southern Wesleyan University?

I attended Anderson Junior College (now Anderson University) for one year and then transferred to Central Wesleyan College (now Southern Wesleyan University) in 1980. It was close to my home in Pickens and I could commute and continue to work in the family printing business.

2. How did attending Southern Wesleyan University prepare you for your successful career?

Attending SWU allowed me to meet many great people and showed me how to interact with many different types of people. Relationships are one of the most essential elements of life and attending SWU helped me cultivate those relationships back then, as well as today.

3. Do you have a particular professor or class that made an impression on you? If so, how?

Ms. Freda Myers attempted to teach me accounting and other business classes. She was always very honest with me about my study habits. She cared about her students and wanted me to do better in all her classes. I sometimes did not appreciate her directness, but it has served me well in my business and political life.

4. Why did you decide to become a state legislator?

In 2004 my children were young and I saw things that needed changing. I could not get it off my mind, so I finally decided to put my name on the ballot and see what would happen. I had no idea that I would win, but God had other plans. I never thought I would stay this long – 18 years – but once again, God had other plans for me.

5. Of what achievement in the S.C. House are you most proud?

I believe I have made a difference during the time I have served in the House. When someone calls me with a problem or concern, I try my best to help them the best I can. When someone says “thank you” for helping them with their issue, I feel like I have achieved something.

6. You own a successful printing company, but if you could pick another job, what would it be?

I would be a banker. My grandfather was president of a bank and I wanted to do that as well. I have only had one job in my entire working career and that is as a printer.

7. What advice do you have for students attending Southern Wesleyan and other SCICU member institutions?

Study and learn as much as you can. Life is all about what you learn. The one regret I have is that I did not study harder in school. Take advantage of every opportunity give to you to learn. You will not regret it.