Williams named major gift officer and planned giving coordinator at SC State
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Cardan Williams to the Division of University Advancement & Strategic Communications as our new director of major gifts and planned giving coordinator,” said Dr. John Michael Lee Jr., SC State’s vice president for university advancement and strategic communications. “Mr. Williams brings a strong track record of relationship-building, strategic fundraising, and donor stewardship that will be instrumental in advancing our major gift efforts and expanding our planned giving program.
“His commitment to our mission and passion for higher education will help us inspire even greater philanthropic investment in SC State’s future,” Lee said.
Williams brings a diverse background in finance, leadership, and strategic development to his role. With experience spanning investor relations, military financial management, corporate leadership development, and athletic coaching, Williams is well-equipped to build meaningful relationships with donors and advance the university's philanthropic mission.
Originally from the small town of Chester, South Carolina, where community means everything, Williams is deeply committed to service and connection. Raised by parents who instilled in him the values of honor, duty, and respect, he carries those principles into every aspect of his life. He finds joy in spending time with family-especially his grandparents-and helping others, values that continue to guide both his personal and professional path.
Williams commissioned in the United States Army Reserve as a finance officer. He also brings private-sector experience from working with CEO Ron Balchandani of AV Equity Partners, where he helped lead financial due diligence for multimillion-dollar investments across the healthcare and technology sectors. In addition, he participated in the National Corporate Housing Leadership Development Program, gaining experience in budgeting, strategic planning, and client development.
His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science from The Citadel, a Master of Science from Clemson University, and ongoing MBA studies in accounting and business management at The Citadel.
A former NCAA Division I student-athlete, Williams is a decorated member of the dean's list and a conference champion in football and track and field. He was part of the 2023 Men's Track & Field Outdoor ACC Championship team at Clemson University and previously helped secure the Southern Conference Football Championship at The Citadel. He also holds the distinction of being among the top 10 fastest athletes in Citadel Track & Field history.
Driven by a strong commitment to excellence and growth, Cardan is excited to support South Carolina State University's advancement efforts by stewarding major gifts and strengthening planned giving strategies that will benefit future generations of Bulldogs. He is also happy to bring his knowledge and skills back to his home state of South Carolina, where he is passionate about giving back and helping build a stronger future for the communities that shaped him.
"I'm thrilled to be a Bulldog - this already feels like home,” Williams said. “I'm ready to give it my all to support and stand alongside today's leaders."