SC State Honors College tackles research, graduate education, financial literacy and leadership at Spring 2026 summit
The Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College at South Carolina State University hosted its Spring 2026 collegewide student meeting on Thursday, Jan. 22, in the Engineering and Science Complex Auditorium.
The meeting brought together Honors scholars, campus leaders and community partners for a forward-looking discussion on academic excellence, graduate education, financial empowerment, real estate ownership, entrepreneurship and leadership development — reinforcing the Honors College’s focus on preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
Dr. William H. Whitaker Jr., dean of the Honors College, welcomed students and guests and underscored the college’s commitment to preparing scholars for success beyond the classroom.
“The Honors College experience is intentionally designed to expose our students to opportunities that strengthen their academic foundation while equipping them for life after graduation,” Whitaker said. “Today’s discussion reflects that commitment.”
Research and graduate education pathways
The program opened with April Thomas, director of the Undergraduate Research Office, who outlined opportunities for Honors scholars to participate in faculty-mentored research. She emphasized undergraduate research as a pathway to developing analytical skills, strengthening readiness for graduate and professional school, and enhancing career preparation.
Elizabeth Horton, director of the Office of Graduate Services, spoke on behalf of Dr. Lakeisa Tucker, dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, providing guidance on graduate school pathways, application preparation and the importance of early academic planning.
“Graduate school preparation begins now,” Horton said. “Honors students are already positioned for success, but intentional planning makes the difference.”
Financial literacy and wealth building
A featured segment of the meeting, “Foundations of Financial Freedom: An Honors Wealth Forum,” was facilitated by Howard Jackson, executive director of the South Carolina State University Real Estate Foundation. Jackson also played a key role in connecting the Honors College with community financial partners.
Jackson engaged students in a discussion on real estate fundamentals and the long-term importance of property ownership as a tool for wealth creation and economic stability. He introduced Bernard Wheeler, vice president of United Community Bank in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Wheeler addressed essential financial literacy topics, including needs versus wants, renting versus homeownership, responsible credit card use, understanding FICO scores and making informed financial decisions.
“Financial awareness is not optional — it’s essential,” Wheeler said. “The decisions you make now will shape your financial future.”
Kimberley Brown of the South Carolina Community Loan Fund discussed entrepreneurship and community-based financing, highlighting how community development financial institutions support startups, small businesses and underserved communities.
“Entrepreneurship is about access and opportunity,” Brown said. “There are resources available, and knowing how to leverage them is key.”
Leadership and service
The meeting also reinforced the Honors College’s emphasis on leadership and service. Jackson highlighted a growing partnership between the Honors College and the undergraduate chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., expanding opportunities for student leadership engagement.
As part of the collaboration, Anthony Miles, president of the Xi Psi undergraduate chapter of Omega Psi Phi, addressed Honors scholars on leadership, organizational responsibility and service-driven engagement.
The meeting concluded with remarks from Dr. Windy A. Mack Stephenson, executive director of Academic and Scholarship Services, and Jacqueline Tobin Mack, coordinator of Honors enrollment, engagement and outreach, who outlined expectations, responsibilities and values associated with being an Honors College scholar.
“Being an Honors scholar is more than academic achievement — it is a commitment to leadership, service and excellence in every space you enter,” Stephenson said.
“Engagement transforms potential into purpose,” Mack said. “Our scholars are expected to lead — on campus and in the community.”
The Spring 2026 collegewide student meeting reflected the Honors College’s mission to cultivate scholar-leaders who are academically prepared, financially informed, civically engaged and positioned for lifelong success.
About the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College
The Honors College is dedicated to developing high-achieving scholars through rigorous academic opportunities, leadership training, research engagement, and global experiences. Its mission is to cultivate leaders who embody excellence, integrity, and a commitment to service.