Ken Rentiers Receives Meritorious Service Award

At the March 27, 2026 Board Meeting of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the Meritorious Service Award went to Ken Rentiers.

SCDNR Director Dr. Tom Mullikin made these remarks:

"I would like to recognize someone who is retiring after many years of dedicated service to the Department, our state, and the nation. Ken Rentiers has dutifully served as our Deputy Director for Land, Water and Conservation since 2009. For more than a decade and a half, Ken has been a steady, trusted leader whose vision and professionalism strengthened one of the Department’s most critical divisions. In his role, Ken oversaw the development and implementation of programs and policies that study, manage, and protect South Carolina’s land and water resources. Under his guidance, the Division advanced major initiatives in conservation, flood mitigation, geological surveying, land management, archeological research and environmental stewardship, each shaped by Ken’s deep commitment to science-based policy, collaboration, and public service. Additionally, he has a long history of service to South Carolina before joining SCDNR.

Ken received his B.S. in political science from the College of Charleston and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He then served on active duty in the United States Navy from 1981 to 1987.

From 1990 to 2001, Ken served on the staff of United States Senator Strom Thurmond in several positions including Legislative Director, Director of Constituent Services, and Counsel to the President Pro Tempore of the Senate. In 2001, he was appointed Confidential Assistant to President George W. Bush and State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency in South Carolina. He retired from Federal service in January 2009.

Ken’s leadership has been characterized by integrity, fairness, and an unwavering dedication to the people of this state. He is one of the finest public servants I have ever had the privilege to work alongside. I have known Ken for decades since his tenure as trusted staff in the United States Senate. His depth of knowledge, steady leadership, and genuine devotion to the mission of this Department have made an extraordinary impact on our state. Please join me in honoring Ken with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Meritorious Service Award."