SC State classes donate $1.3M during Alumni Weekend
Alumni Weekend donations have exceeded $1 million for three consecutive years.
ORANGEBURG, S.C. – For the third year in a row, South Carolina State University reunion classes donated more than $1 million to the university during Alumni Weekend, May 10-12.
"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. “As an alum myself, I am deeply moved by the generosity and dedication of our fellow Bulldogs in giving back to our alma mater.”
In all, the classes raised $1,328,423.15 to support scholarships, campus improvements and 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 led SC State’s Alumni Weekend for the past 25 years. She announced that the 2024 Alumni Weekend would be her last.
Members of the Bulldog Class of 1969 raised the most, contributing $360,845 and exemplifying their exceptional commitment to the university's mission and initiatives. The earliest alumni class in reunion this weekend was the Class of 1954, members of which contributed $52,270 on the 70th anniversary of their graduation from SC State.
Lee emphasized that the time to give was not restricted to Alumni Weekend. All classes in reunion have until June 30 to add to their totals presented during Alumni Weekend. Final totals will be presented during halftime of the Homecoming game against Delaware State University on Oct. 26.
Breakdown of contributions during Alumni Reunion Weekend 2024
|
Class Year |
Contribution |
| 1954 | $52,270 |
| 1959 | $77,319.59 |
| 1964 | $93,321 |
|
1969 |
$360,845 |
| 1974 | $337,000 |
| 1975 | $32,109 |
| 1979 | $205,770.56 |
| 1984 | $103,400 |
| 1989 | $61,000 |
| 1994 | $2,839 |
| 1999 | $2,549 |
| Total | $1,328,423.15 |
Alumni Weekend festivities began on Friday morning with the Spring Commencement Convocation held in Oliver C. Dawson Stadium, where U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III served as the commencement speaker. The Golden Class of 1974, with members clad in white and commemorative medallions, celebrated their 50th anniversary of graduating from SC State.
Following commencement, class events and activities brought together alumni for meet-and-greet sessions celebrating milestone anniversaries. Speakers from each class shared cherished memories. The day culminated with the annual Alumni Honors and Awards Banquet in Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center.
Saturday's activities began a SCSU National Alumni Association meeting showcasing the latest work by the association to support the university. This was followed by engaging luncheons and socials where alumni reminisced, reconnected, and rejoiced in celebrating the bonds forged at SC State.
For more information about giving to SC State, visit www..scstate/give.