Meet Peighton Runkel, a new Clyburn Scholar in the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College
ORANGEBURG, S.C. – South Carolina State University is proud to introduce Peighton Runkel, a freshman cybersecurity major, as a Clyburn Scholar in the distinguished Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College.
Hailing from North, South Carolina, Runkel brings a wealth of leadership and community service experience, embodying the dedication to service and excellence that defines the Honors College.
“Peighton embodies the spirit of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and leadership that we value in the Clyburn Honors College,” said Dr. William H. Whitaker Jr., Honors College dean. “Her dedication to academic excellence and her commitment to service make her a remarkable addition to our community. We are excited to support her journey and to witness the many ways she will enrich both the Honors College and South Carolina State University.”
Throughout high school, Runkel engaged in numerous leadership roles and community service initiatives that shaped her into the dedicated student and emerging leader she is today.
She was an active member of the Girl Scouts for two years, where she collaborated with fellow scouts on impactful community projects such as creating healthcare kits for the homeless, writing thank-you cards for military personnel and participating in local clean-up efforts. These experiences taught Runkel the value of community and teamwork, which she cherishes to this day.
Runkel‘s academic achievements include graduating as salutatorian and being an active member of both the Junior and Senior Beta Clubs. As a National Honor Society (NHS) member, Runkel went above and beyond in community service, often volunteering her time to help school programs like band and chorus and mentoring younger students.
Her commitment to service extended to Mission Lexington, where she contributed to initiatives that support families in need. Her experience at Mission Lexington sparked a deep appreciation for community work, inspiring her to continue giving back whenever possible.
As a freshman Clyburn Scholar, Runkel is enthusiastic about furthering her education in cybersecurity while actively participating in the Honors College. She looks forward to utilizing her experiences to serve her university and local communities, all while preparing to make a meaningful impact in her field.
Runkel embodies the spirit of resilience, community, and excellence, aligning perfectly with the mission of the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College.