Program Lead
Phone: 803-777-2076
Email: hgelbard@mailbox.sc.edu

Heather is a graduate of NC State University where she received her bachelor’s degree in psychology.  Additionally, Heather received her master’s degree in movement science (concentration in sports psychology) from Barry University.  Heather joined the Capstone Scholars program in August, 2025.  Her background is in college athletics, having coached softball at the collegiate level for 18 years - two of those seasons were spent in the Gamecocks dugout, which is when she grew to love Columbia and the University of South Carolina.

Heather serves as the Program Lead responsible for community engagement and leads the Capstone Scholars Service Team, as well as overseeing Civic Engagement Training (CET).  She believes that much of the learning that takes place on a college campus happens outside of the classroom and encourages students to enjoy a full college experience.  She is excited to support students in their growth throughout their Capstone Scholars journey.

Outside of the office, she enjoys watching sports (of course cheering on the Gamecocks), trying new restaurants, reading, and spending time with her fur-mily.