Orangeburg, South Carolina – For the third consecutive year, alumni groups from South Carolina State University contributed over $1 million during their reunion at Alumni Weekend, held from May 10 to 12. “This extraordinary fundraising effort illustrates the steadfast commitment of our alumni to support SC State’s mission and ensure a bright future for our students,” President Alexander Conyers said, according to a press release. “As an alum myself, I am deeply moved by the generosity and dedication of our fellow Bulldogs in giving back to our alma mater.”
Overall, the alumni classes managed to gather $1,328,423.15, which will go towards funding scholarships, enhancing the campus, and initiating new programs. “The Alumni Reunion Weekend serves as a testament to the enduring bond between SC State and its graduates,” said Dr. John M. Lee Jr., SC State vice president for institutional advancement. “It’s inspiring to see the dedication and generosity of our alumni community.”
“I extend a special thank you to Ms. Iva Garner, alumni manager, and the entire advancement team for their tireless efforts in planning and executing Reunion Weekend,” Lee said. “Their dedication ensures that this event continues to be a remarkable success, fostering connections and memories that enrich the SC State experience for all Bulldogs.”
Gardner has been at the helm of SC State’s Alumni Weekend for a quarter of a century. She recently declared that the 2024 event would be her final one. The Bulldog Class of 1969 led the fundraising efforts, donating an impressive $360,845, showing strong support for the university’s goals and projects. The oldest group to reunite over the weekend was the Class of 1954, who celebrated their 70th graduation anniversary by contributing $52,270.
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Lee pointed out that giving isn’t limited to just the Alumni Weekend. All reunion classes have until June 30 to increase their contributions, with final amounts to be announced during the halftime of the Homecoming football game against Delaware State University on October 26.
The weekend kicked off on Friday morning with the Spring Commencement Convocation at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III was the keynote speaker. The Golden Class of 1974 marked their 50th graduation anniversary, wearing white outfits and special medallions.
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Post-commencement, various class events and activities provided opportunities for alumni to gather, reconnect, and share memories. The day wrapped up with the annual Alumni Honors and Awards Banquet held at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center.
Saturday featured a meeting of the SCSU National Alumni Association, highlighting recent efforts to support the university. This was followed by luncheons and social gatherings where alumni shared stories and celebrated their lifelong connections with SC State.
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For more information about giving to SC State, visit https://scsu.edu/give/index.php.
