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Tag: South Carolina State University

  • SC State Launches $41.2M Fundraising Campaign

    South Carolina State University (SC State) is embarking on an ambitious journey to elevate its campus, athletics, and research capabilities with the launch of a historic $41.2 million fundraising campaign. Titled “The Power of SC State: A Capital Campaign to Elevate Excellence,” this five-year initiative aims to significantly enhance the student experience and solidify the university’s position as a leading institution.

    A Vision Focused on Student Success

    The campaign is strategically centered around five key priorities: increasing student scholarships, enhancing athletic programs, supporting faculty and staff, expanding programmatic opportunities, and revitalizing campus facilities. SC State President Alexander Conyers emphasized that the effort reflects the university’s overarching vision for student success, highlighting the crucial role of private giving in complementing public support.

    This initiative is particularly vital for HBCUs, which often face the challenge of doing more with less while serving students who may require greater financial and academic support. The campaign provides SC State with the opportunity to bridge gaps, broaden opportunities, and invest directly in areas that impact students daily.

    Strong Foundation with Over $17 Million Raised

    SC State is not starting from scratch. The campaign’s silent phase, which began in 2024, has already seen remarkable success, with donors contributing over $17.4 million towards the $41.2 million goal. This strong initial fundraising total provides a solid foundation as the campaign enters its public phase.

    The university also reported a significant increase in donor participation, up by 34%, reaching the highest annual donor count in its 130-year history. The alumni giving rate hit 15.2%, surpassing both national and HBCU averages, demonstrating a deep belief in the institution’s vision and future.

    Revitalizing Athletics and Research

    A significant portion of the campaign, $10.4 million, is dedicated to renovating Oliver C. Dawson Stadium, the home of Bulldog football. Planned upgrades include new LED lighting, modernized press boxes, enhanced accessibility features, and the creation of a premium pregame “Dog Park” experience. These improvements aim to boost game-day excitement, support student-athletes, and align with the broader trend of HBCUs modernizing athletic facilities for recruiting and fan engagement.

    Complementing the athletic focus, the campaign also supports SC State’s growing research profile. Having recently achieved R2 status in the Carnegie Classification for high research activity, the university plans to allocate $2 million for endowed professorships and $5.5 million for scholarships. These investments are crucial for attracting top faculty, securing larger grants, and expanding research opportunities for students, further solidifying SC State’s role as a public-serving institution.

    Transforming the Campus and Community

    The fundraising campaign aligns with over $210 million in ongoing campus construction, including a new academic facility and a state-of-the-art library. These physical transformations are designed to enhance the learning environment and student experience, contributing to retention and recruitment efforts. The campaign, led by dedicated alumni co-chairs, emphasizes a shared responsibility to build a stronger foundation for future generations of Bulldogs.

    The Power of SC State campaign signifies a pivotal moment for HBCU fundraising, demonstrating how strategic private investment can drive significant institutional growth and impact. With strong early momentum and a clear vision, SC State is poised for an exciting next chapter.

    What are your thoughts on SC State’s ambitious fundraising campaign? Share your excitement and ideas in the comments below!

  • SC State Faces Funding Threat Over Canceled Speech

    Things are heating up for South Carolina State University (SCSU) after they decided to pull the plug on Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s invitation to speak at the May 2026 commencement. This move has sparked a significant backlash from some Republican lawmakers, who are now threatening the university’s funding.

    Why Was the Speech Canceled?

    The university stated that the invitation was withdrawn following student protests and what officials described as “credible safety threats.” In essence, SCSU decided to play it safe, prioritizing a secure environment for everyone involved.

    University President Alexander Conyers released a statement explaining the decision. He expressed gratitude to Lt. Gov. Evette for accepting the invitation but emphasized that the university ultimately chose to “move in a different direction” out of “an abundance of caution for safety.”

    Student Concerns and Political Stances

    The student protests weren’t just a general outcry; they were specifically aimed at Lt. Gov. Evette’s political positions. Students voiced strong opposition to her views on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), abortion rights, and her support for former President Donald Trump. Many felt that commencement speakers should inspire graduates without pushing a political agenda.

    Lt. Gov. Evette, who is also campaigning for governor, told Fox News Digital that she was informed the cancellation was due to security concerns. She also pointed out that this situation seems to be part of a larger trend where conservative speakers face pushback on college campuses. She noted that the invitation was extended months prior, and she hadn’t even shared her planned remarks yet.

    Lawmakers React with Funding Threats

    The response from some Republican lawmakers was swift and sharp. Members of the South Carolina House Freedom Caucus called the university’s decision “shameful” and “inexcusable.” They penned a letter arguing that if a statewide elected official can’t speak safely on campus, then the university’s public funding should be seriously reconsidered.

    These lawmakers urged state budget writers to potentially exclude SCSU from the next appropriations cycle. This dispute really highlights the ongoing national debate about free speech, student activism, and the influence of politics on higher education.

    • South Carolina State University canceled Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s commencement speech.
    • The decision was based on student protests and reported “credible safety threats.”
    • Students opposed Evette’s political stances on DEI, abortion, and support for Trump.
    • Republican lawmakers are threatening to cut the university’s funding.
    • The situation underscores national tensions over campus free speech and activism.

    While the lawmakers’ threats are serious, it’s still uncertain if they will actually follow through with cutting funding. However, this incident has definitely intensified the conversation about balancing political expression with campus security at publicly funded institutions.

    What’s your take on this situation? Should campus safety concerns override a speaker’s invitation, or is this a matter of political censorship? Let us know in the comments!

  • SC Legislators Threaten Funding for SC State Over Lt. Gov. Disinvitation

    A decision by South Carolina State University (SC State) to disinvite Lt. Governor Pamela Evette from serving as its commencement speaker has ignited a fierce backlash from state legislators. A group of lawmakers is now threatening to pull all state funding from the historically Black university (HBCU) in response to the move.

    Legislators Denounce Decision as Political Capitulation

    In a formal letter addressed to Chairman Bannister, a coalition of legislators, including members of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus, expressed their strong disapproval. They characterized the university’s decision as a capitulation to political pressure and a sign that conservative viewpoints are unwelcome on campus. The nine signatories argued that if a sitting Lt. Governor cannot be welcomed or have her safety guaranteed on a state-funded campus, then it’s time to “defund and reevaluate” the institution’s support.

    The legislators have officially requested that no funding for SC State University be included in the upcoming state budget. Their statement read, in part, “There is no reason why state tax dollars should continue to fund a state institution where not all South Carolinians are welcome. If the Lt. Governor of South Carolina is unwelcome due to different political ideologies and an inability to keep her safe, it is time to defund and reevaluate.”

    Student Protests Cited as Reason for Disinvitation

    The university had initially invited Lt. Gov. Evette to address the class of 2026. However, the announcement was met with significant demonstrations from students on campus. Protesters specifically cited Evette’s political stances, particularly her opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as reasons why they believed she was not a suitable speaker for an HBCU.

    SC State President Alexander Conyers stated that the primary factor in rescinding the invitation was the university’s inability to guarantee a safe and celebratory environment for the graduates. While acknowledging the value of free speech, the potential for substantial disruption during the commencement ceremony led to the decision to seek a different speaker.

    A Contentious Political Standoff

    This situation highlights a growing tension between political ideologies and the missions of educational institutions, particularly HBCUs. The legislators’ threat to defund SC State underscores the high stakes involved in these cultural and political debates. The university now faces the challenge of navigating these pressures while upholding its commitment to its students and its role in higher education.

    What are your thoughts on the legislators’ threat to defund SC State University? Do you believe political ideologies should influence commencement speaker choices? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • SC State Rescinds Lt. Gov. Invite Amid Protests

    South Carolina State University President Alexander Conyers has rescinded the invitation for Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to speak at the upcoming commencement ceremony. This decision follows two days of student protests and comes after Evette referred to the protesting students as a “woke mob.”

    President Stands With Students

    In a video posted to X, President Conyers was seen standing with his students, affirming their right to protest. He stated, “What I saw yesterday, what I saw today, was college students exercising their free rights… So how someone can confuse what happened, and perhaps because that person wasn’t here… I will admit you’ve done exactly what I did some 35 years ago as a student on these same grounds.”

    Conyers acknowledged that he couldn’t change what was said on social media but refused to let outsiders label the future generation as “thugs.” He invited anyone skeptical to visit the campus and see for themselves.

    Safety and Celebration as Priorities

    In a statement to WLTX, Conyers explained that the university has “decided to move in a different direction” for commencement. While Evette was initially chosen for her record as a business leader, the situation evolved into a safety concern. The university stated it will welcome Evette at a later date, emphasizing that “The safety and well-being of our students, families, faculty, staff and guests will always guide our decisions.” Commencement, he added, “should remain a moment of celebration focused on our graduates and their achievements.”

    Student Concerns and Evette’s Response

    The student protests, which gained support from figures like Bakari Sellers, centered on “morality issues.” One student expressed, “We’ve been here four, five years, and for commencement we should have someone who is going to celebrate us. How can someone who goes against everything we stand for and believe in, morality-wise, how can that person uplift me on my day of stepping into the real world?”

    Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Evette, who is also running for governor, continued to voice her stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives on college campuses. Upon learning of the rescinded invitation, she issued a statement: “The fact that a speech had to be canceled for credible safety threats is exactly why we cannot give up the fight to end indoctrination and DEI on campuses once and for all. The root problem is professors who gin up feigned outrage at the detriment of their students, who they should be teaching to think critically. End tenure now!”

    What are your thoughts on South Carolina State University’s decision to rescind Lt. Gov. Evette’s invitation? Do you agree with the students’ concerns or Evette’s stance on DEI? Share your views in the comments below!

  • SC State Rescinds Speaker Invite After Student Protest

    Well, this is a turn of events! South Carolina State University has decided to pull the plug on inviting Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to deliver their commencement address. This decision comes after a significant wave of student protests, with many feeling the invitation was a direct insult to their values.

    Students Speak Out Against the Choice

    The initial invitation to Lt. Gov. Evette sparked immediate backlash from students. Many expressed that hearing from someone who has openly stated opposition to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives felt deeply disrespectful, especially at an HBCU. Senior Summer Gray shared her heartbreak, calling the decision ‘a slap in the face’ and launching a petition to voice their concerns.

    The student demonstrations took various forms, from peaceful sit-ins in the administration building to outdoor rallies and online campaigns. Their message was clear: they did not support Lt. Gov. Evette as their commencement speaker, believing her stance contradicted the principles and community of an HBCU.

    Lt. Governor’s Response and University’s Reversal

    Adding fuel to the fire, Lt. Gov. Evette reportedly referred to the student protests as ‘woke mobs’ and challenged them to ‘bring it on.’ This response was widely criticized by students and faculty as unprofessional and inappropriate, further escalating the situation.

    In response to the ongoing demonstrations and the charged atmosphere, SC State President Alexander Conyers addressed the students directly. He condemned the ‘mob’ label, affirming the students’ right to exercise their free speech and emphasizing that their actions were not those of thugs or a mob.

    A Decision for Safety and Dialogue

    President Conyers ultimately announced the university’s decision to rescind the invitation. He stated that while he welcomes constructive dialogue with individuals holding different viewpoints, commencement is not the appropriate time for such exchanges, especially given the current national climate and the potential for unforeseen reactions.

    The university issued a statement citing ‘abundance of caution for safety’ and ‘careful consideration’ for the change in direction. They expressed gratitude for Lt. Gov. Evette’s initial willingness to speak but prioritized ensuring a safe and positive environment for the commencement ceremony.

    What are your thoughts on South Carolina State University’s decision? Do you think commencement is the right venue for challenging dialogues? Let us know in the comments!

  • SC State Students Protest Lt. Gov. Evette as Commencement Speaker

    Tensions are high at South Carolina State University as students voice outrage over the reported invitation of Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to deliver the 2026 commencement address. The university’s first public HBCU is facing a student-led protest, with many feeling that Evette’s invitation is a direct insult to their values and experiences.

    A ‘Slap in the Face’ for Students

    Summer Gray, a senior Communications/Broadcasting major, launched a petition that quickly garnered over 10,000 signatures. Her initial reaction to the news was disbelief, followed by heartbreak. ‘This felt like a slap in the face to me and my fellow graduates,’ Gray told theGrio. She explained that Evette’s openly stated opposition to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives is fundamentally at odds with the principles of an HBCU.

    Student Government President Zaria Tucker echoed these sentiments on Facebook, emphasizing that commencement should reflect the students’ voices and values. ‘At an HBCU, our legacy is rooted in advocacy, equity, and the power of our voices,’ Tucker stated. ‘When decisions are made without us in moments that belong to us, it matters… We are not asking for noise; we are asking for respect.’

    Student Protests and Evette’s Response

    Reports of student protests emerged on April 28th, with students reportedly holding a peaceful demonstration and sit-in at the university’s administration building. Videos shared on social media captured students voicing their concerns directly to university officials. In response, Lt. Gov. Evette posted a series of videos on her social media, calling the protesters a ‘woke mob’ and defending her stance against ‘radical DEI scams.’

    Evette stated, ‘Facts trump feelings in the real world,’ and claimed that President Trump and conservatives have done more for HBCUs than any previous administration. She asserted her commitment to conservative values and her opposition to DEI, framing the student protests as politically motivated. She also referred to the students’ actions as ‘yelling and chanting and screaming,’ which she deemed characteristic of a ‘mob.’

    University’s Stance and Student Solidarity

    While university officials initially told WACH FOX that no official speaker had been selected, Evette later stated in a press conference that the school’s office had extended an invitation months prior. She defended her use of the term ‘mob,’ arguing that disruptive protests are not a ‘better way to do things.’ However, SC State students have found support from alumni, social media users, and even State Rep. Jermaine Johnson, who backed the students’ concerns.

    Students like Summer Gray expressed deep disappointment in Evette’s response, calling it unprofessional and insensitive. They argue that a politician should aim to unite, not divide. The students are demanding that the university either rescind the invitation or proceed without a speaker and issue an apology. They extended a heartfelt thank you to everyone supporting their movement.

    The university has stated that it has no official comment at this time and will communicate updates through official channels. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between conservative political agendas and the values upheld by many HBCU communities.

    What are your thoughts on the controversy surrounding the commencement speaker at South Carolina State University? Share your views in the comments below!

  • SC Lt. Gov. Evette Calls Protesting Students ‘Woke Mobs’

    A brewing controversy at South Carolina State University (SC State) has escalated, with Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette labeling protesting students as “woke mobs.” The students are voicing their opposition to Evette being selected as the speaker for the university’s upcoming commencement ceremony, leading to a public clash between the politician and the student body.

    Evette’s Response to Student Protests

    In a video posted on X, Evette directly addressed the protests, encouraging the students to “bring it on.” She dismissed their actions as “woke mobs” and asserted that President Donald Trump and conservatives have been more beneficial to HBCUs than any other administration. “Facts trump feelings in the real world,” Evette stated, adding, “I must be doing something right because woke mobs are coming after me for being a champion of eliminating radical DEI scams on college campuses.”

    She further declared her intention to remain steadfast, stating, “Just like President Trump, I’ll never back down or bend a knee to the woke radicals.” Evette promised to share more on her stance against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives on campuses and expressed anticipation for celebrating commencement with the students and faculty.

    Students Voice Concerns Over Evette’s Stance

    The student protests, including sit-ins and chants of “we are not a mob, we are just aware,” stem from Evette’s political positions, which many students feel contradict the values of SC State. Concerns were raised about her anti-DEI rhetoric, support for ICE policies, and alignment with Trump-era politics, which students argue negatively impact marginalized communities.

    One student, speaking to leadership during a sit-in, questioned Evette’s suitability as a commencement speaker, calling it a “morality issue.” The student asked, “How can someone who goes against everything we stand for and believe in, morality-wise, how can that person uplift me on my day of stepping into the real world?” This sentiment was echoed in an online petition with over 2,000 signatures, arguing that Evette’s presence does not align with the university’s mission.

    University Leadership and Alumni Support

    University President Alexander Conyers met with students during the sit-in, acknowledging their concerns but not indicating whether the speaker selection would be changed. He mentioned Evette’s background as a “female business owner, a millionaire business owner” whose story might be unknown to many students. Meanwhile, advocates and former state elected leaders, like Bakari Sellers, have publicly supported the students’ right to protest, reminding them of the university’s tradition of activism.

    What are your thoughts on Lt. Gov. Evette’s response to the SC State student protests? Share your views in the comments below.

  • SCSU Students Protest Lt. Gov. Evette as Commencement Speaker

    Tensions are rising at South Carolina State University (SCSU) as students continue to protest the reported decision to invite Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette as the 2026 commencement speaker. What began as campus frustration has now evolved into a significant movement, with students organizing demonstrations, launching petitions, and issuing a powerful joint statement that’s resonating throughout the HBCU community.

    Student Organizing and Demands

    The controversy quickly ignited student organizing efforts, including sit-ins and demonstrations across campus. Students are demanding a change in speaker and greater accountability from university leadership. A student-led petition calling for a new speaker has garnered thousands of signatures, highlighting the widespread concern among the student body and beyond.

    For many students, commencement is more than just a ceremony; it’s a pivotal moment meant to reflect their journey, values, and the proud legacy of an HBCU. This belief is fueling the ongoing momentum behind the protests.

    National Attention and Concerns Over Language

    Adding national weight to the SCSU commencement speaker controversy, student leaders from multiple universities have released a joint statement. They frame the issue as part of a larger national pattern where young people’s voices are often dismissed. The statement directly addresses reports of Lt. Gov. Evette referring to protesting students as “mobs” and “radicals,” arguing that such language undermines their concerns and their right to peaceful protest.

    The message emphasizes that commencement should honor sacrifice, perseverance, and possibility. Speakers who respond to student activism with contempt, the statement argues, do not represent the graduating students or the significance of the milestone.

    DEI and Historical Context

    A significant theme in the joint statement revolves around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Students describe DEI not as a handout, but as a crucial correction to systemic inequities that have historically limited opportunities for various communities, including first-generation students, veterans, and others. They argue that dismantling DEI efforts hinders progress rather than preserving merit.

    The statement also draws a powerful connection to SCSU’s own history, referencing the legacy of student activism and advocacy for justice and equality. By linking the current controversy to this broader narrative, students position their concerns within the historical context of civil rights and the vital role HBCUs play in driving social change.

    The University’s Response and Student Resolve

    As of now, the university has not officially confirmed any changes to the commencement speaker lineup. However, the sustained protests and increasing national attention indicate that the SCSU commencement speaker controversy is far from resolved. Students remain steadfast in their message: their voices matter, and this moment is about more than just one speaker—it’s about respect, representation, and ensuring that HBCU traditions truly reflect the students they celebrate.

    What are your thoughts on the SCSU commencement speaker controversy? Do you believe Lt. Gov. Evette’s reported comments disqualify her from speaking? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • Violence Mars HBCU Homecomings; Two Women Killed

    Homecoming weekends at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are typically vibrant celebrations of community and tradition. However, recent events have cast a dark shadow over these festivities, with unconnected shootings at Jackson State University, Alcorn State University in Mississippi, and South Carolina State University in South Carolina resulting in tragic violence over the past two weekends.

    Tragedy Strikes Mississippi Universities

    At Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi, unconnected shootings left one woman dead and multiple people injured, including at least one child. The shooting near the tailgating section at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, where the homecoming football game against Alabama State University was held, resulted in injuries to a child who was transported to the University of Mississippi Medical Center. No suspect information has been released yet.

    In Alcorn, Mississippi, a shooting occurred on campus near the Industrial Technology Building around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Brekyra Fisher, a 29-year-old resident of Vicksburg, Mississippi, tragically lost her life in this incident. Two other individuals sustained injuries, and authorities have yet to make any arrests related to this shooting.

    Violence at South Carolina State University Homecoming

    These incidents in Mississippi follow a violent homecoming weekend at South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, S.C. On the night of October 4th, one woman was killed and another man was shot on campus. Neither of the victims were students; they were visiting friends. The woman who died has been identified as 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler, who was killed in a residence hall on campus.

    Similar to the Mississippi incidents, no arrests have been made in connection with the shootings that claimed Jaliyah Butler’s life. However, an arrest was made concerning a separate incident on campus where an individual presented and pointed a gun into a crowd during a homecoming activity that same Saturday night.

    Our hearts go out to the victims and their families affected by this violence. What steps can be taken to ensure the safety of students and attendees at future HBCU homecoming events? Share your thoughts in the comments below.