SC State students receive Wilhemenia B. Smith Scholarship awards

Scholarship honors longtime educator and supports future public school teachers

ORANGEBURG, S.C. — Two South Carolina State University student teachers have received the $10,000 Wilhemenia B. Smith Scholarship, an award established by alumnus George Smith in honor of his late wife, Wilhemenia B. Smith, a longtime social studies teacher who dedicated more than 37 years to education.

The scholarship recipients are:

• Victoria Davis, a biology education major
• Autumn Staggers, an art education major.

Both students were recognized by SC State’s College of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences for their commitment to becoming public school educators in South Carolina.

Davis and Staggers were among nine graduating seniors inducted into the teaching profession on Monday, May 4, during SC State’s Educator Induction Ceremony ahead of the university's May 8 spring commencement exercises.

George and Wilhemenia Smith graduated from SC State in 1965. The scholarship was created to continue their shared legacy of service and support for future teachers.

During the scholarship presentation, Smith encouraged the recipients to serve not only as teachers but also as mentors to children. He emphasized the importance of encouraging and supporting young people and reminded the students that effective educators help shape lives beyond the classroom.

Dr. M. Evelyn Fields, dean of the College of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, expressed appreciation for Smith’s continued investment in teacher education.

“We certainly appreciate Mr. Smith providing our students with this financial assistance,” Fields said. “Student teachers are often unable to work while they are completing their field experiences. This scholarship helps relieve some of the financial stress and allows them to focus fully on becoming effective educators.”

The Wilhemenia B. Smith Scholarship honors the life and work of an educator who believed in the importance of public education and caring for every child. University officials said the scholarship continues to encourage and support future educators preparing to serve in schools and communities across South Carolina.