Roberta Huger Pinckney is a distinguished leader, healthcare professional, and advocate whose journey from humble beginnings in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, to the forefront of healthcare and education leadership is a testament to perseverance and excellence. As the eldest of 13 children, she overcame economic hardships to excel academically, graduating as an honor student from Laing High School during segregation, and Cum Laude from Barber-Scotia College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. Her life and career exemplify resilience, dedication, and a profound commitment to servant leadership. 

Her professional career began in education as a high school biology teacher before she transitioned into the medical field. She attended Emory University School of Medical Technology and became a Registered Medical Technologist (ASCP). She was the first African American to supervise the Hematology Lab Department at her local hometown hospital and later founded MEDLab Consultants, an independent laboratory service for physician offices. 

Mrs. Pinckney’s impact extends beyond healthcare. After serving 10 years on the Board of Directors for St. James-Santee Family Health Center, Inc., she became the organization’s first female CEO, overseeing a $2.2 million budget and expanding services for underserved and uninsured communities. She also made history as the first African American woman to serve on the Roper St. Francis Healthcare System Board of Directors, where, for 11 years, she played a pivotal role in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. 

Her dedication to education and service led her back to Barber-Scotia College, where she joined the Board of Trustees in 2019. She served as Board Secretary before being elected Chair, where she led efforts to stabilize the institution, develop its five-year strategic plan, started the re-accreditation process, and hired the present college President. In February 2025, after serving as chair for three years and did not seek re-election, she transitioned to Immediate Past Chair, continuing to champion the College’s revitalization. 

A charter member of Delta Psi and Omicron Rho Omega Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a leader in community advocacy, Mrs. Pinckney’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the YWCA of Charleston, SC TWIN Award, Delta Sigma Theta Community Service Award, and a South Carolina General Assembly Service Proclamation. She has also received several recognitions for her work within her church, having served in several capacities. She is presently a member of the choir and the Women’s Missionary Society. Mrs. Pinckney is also a member of the Order of Eastern Star. 

She is married to Rev. Arthur Pinckney, and together they share a blended family of six children, thirteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Barber-Scotia College proudly honors her leadership and unwavering commitment to education, healthcare, and community service.