South Carolina State University Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is the governing body of SC State University, charged by the state of South Carolina to oversee the operation and management of the university. Guided by its bylaws, members of the board execute its functions to ensure the university remains viable for this and future generations. In such capacity, the Board shall define the mission, role and scope of the university; establish the general policies of the university; plan the university’s broad program of educational activity; approve the budget for the fiscal year, assist in soliciting financial resources and serves as an advocate for the university as well as provide ultimate accountability to the public and the South Carolina General Assembly.
The governing board will operate free from undue influence from political, religious, other external entities or bodies and protect the institution from such influence. While the board directs the president to implement and achieve policies and goals, the president is ultimately responsible for the day-to-day management of the university.

Pharmaceutical Sales/Real Estate Entrepreneur
Douglas Gantt, '84
Chair

Licensed Social Worker/Gerontologist CEO, Diversified Training Consultants Group
Dr. Macie P. Smith, '99 '02
Vice Chairperson

Insurance Agent
Starlee D. Alexander

Chairman and CEO of SAI Diversified Energy Services, LLC
Jameel Allen, Sr '01

Retired Educator
Dr. Louvette R. Dicks '79 '07

Command Sergeant Major (retired)
Ronald D. Friday

Retired Provost
Clemson University
Dr. Doris Helms

CEO, PRJ Consulting, LLC
Rodney C. Jenkins ‘73

Chief of Staff
Cyber Security and Intel
Colonel William L. Oden

Retired Vice President
College of Charleston
Monica R. Scott

Retired University Administrator
Dr. Wilbur B. Shuler ‘68

CEO of Safe Harbor
Dr. Daniel R. Varat
Ex-officio Members

Hank Allen
SCSU National Alumni President

Dr. Franklin Pressley
Staff Senate President

Faculty Senate President
Alexander Thierry

SGA President