Leroy Ravenell won his first run for political office when he was elected the 52nd Sheriff of Orangeburg County on January 25, 2011. He was re-elected for a full term on November 6, 2012.
Early Life
A native and lifelong resident of the Santee community of Orangeburg County, Sheriff Ravenell matriculated through the public schools in Holly Hill, South Carolina, before beginning an extensive career in law enforcement.
Career
In 1987, Ravenell answered a special calling for his life, to serve as a law enforcement officer. Through this service and in numerous roles, he quickly learned the significance of his duty to not only enforce laws but to fulfill his life’s philosophy to "Be Firm, Be Fair, and Be Consistent." Professionally, Ravenell has devoted his life to ensuring that the laws of this county, this state, and this country are enforced. Personally, he is a man of unwavering faith who has been divinely blessed with a unique ability to reach people regardless of their ethnicity, background, or social standing.
Desiring greater responsibilities, Ravenell achieved numerous certifications and increased his knowledge about the law enforcement industry. These advantages afforded him opportunities to be promoted to management and serve in a managerial role for more than 16 years.
Education
He graduated magna cum laude from Claflin University, Orangeburg, South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice. Without delay, he continued his post graduate studies at Troy University, Troy, Alabama, and obtained his Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice.
Ravenell continues to give back to his alma mater as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Sociology/Criminal Justice. He also talks with people of all ages about the positive differences they can make in their county and this country by making wise decisions and being true to themselves.
Religious Involvements
Sheriff Ravenell not only understands his importance to the laws that govern the people, he understands and accepts his responsibility to his Creator. He firmly believes in setting and upholding standards in every aspect of his life. He is a faithful member of the Unity Community Fellowship Church where Reverend Jerome Anderson is the pastor.
Awards
In 2013, Sheriff Ravenell was honored by the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association as the Sheriff of the Year during their centennial observance of the Association. In 2011, he was named Warrior of the Year by the Healing Species, December 2011 Character Employee of the Month (Leadership), and South Carolina Association of School Resource Officers Law Enforcement Administrator of the Year.
Other Involvements
Ravenell is a member of:
- Association for Public-Safety Communications Officials
- Edisto Lodge 39
- Fraternal Order of Police
- National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives
- National Sheriffs’ Association
- Palmetto State Law Enforcement Officers Association
- Robert S. Wilkinson Consistory 220
- South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Association
- South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association
Roles in his involvements include:
- Lifetime Member of National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
- Member of the Criminal Justice Degree Program Advisory Board at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College
- Mentor in Orangeburg Consolidated School District 5
- Serves on:
- Board of Directors of the Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce
- Law and Public Safety Advisory Board at the Technology Center for Orangeburg School District 5
- National Sheriffs’ Association Crime Victims Services committee
- A Servant’s Touch Outreach and Support Ministries
- South Carolina Sheriff’s Association Legislative committee
Family
He is married to the former Angela Bodrick. They are the proud parents of three: a daughter, LeQuinta, and two sons, Xavier Justin and Avery Chandlier.