Dr. Benita Curnell is the daughter of Bernell Cooper and the late Charles Cooper, Sr., and the wife of Carl Curnell, a proud U.S. Army veteran. She is a devoted mother to two children, Destiny Cooper and Carly Curnell, and a lifelong learner with deep roots in the Hollywood community.
A graduate of Baptist Hill High School, Class of 1998, Dr. Curnell has built an accomplished career grounded in service, leadership, and excellence in healthcare. She earned her Associate Degree in Nursing in 2003, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2010, a Master of Nursing Informatics in 2013, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Healthcare Systems Leadership in 2022.
With more than 22 years of nursing experience and over 11 years in healthcare leadership, Dr. Curnell currently serves as the Nursing Director of Perioperative Services at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). She is widely recognized as a servant leader with a strong record of strategic growth, fiscal responsibility, team engagement, trust-building, and advocacy for both patients and staff. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to integrity, compassion, and results-driven leadership.
Dr. Curnell’s vision for Hollywood is clear and purposeful. She is committed to listening to residents and leading with transparency, accountability, and practical solutions. Her priorities include preserving Hollywood’s rural character, protecting natural resources, supporting diverse and inclusive neighborhoods, fostering responsible growth, expanding recreational opportunities, and promoting pathways to affordability and economic opportunity.
Guided by her values and her passion for service, Dr. Benita Curnell is dedicated to ensuring Hollywood remains a place where families can thrive—now and for generations to come.