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Graduation Excitement Amidst Challenges in South Carolina Universities

Graduates from Francis Marion University celebrate their achievements with family and friends during the commencement ceremony.

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News Summary

Graduation season in South Carolina sees institutions like Francis Marion University celebrating over 300 graduates, while Limestone University faces turmoil with faculty disinviting leadership from the graduation ceremony due to financial issues. Governor McMaster recognizes graduates’ potential while acknowledging the challenges faced. South Carolina State University prepares for its commencement, and the University of South Carolina excels in graduation success rates among athletes, highlighting the diverse educational landscape in the state.

Florence, South Carolina – Graduation season is in full swing in South Carolina as several universities celebrate the achievements of their students, amidst challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and financial troubles at some institutions. Francis Marion University (FMU) recognized over 300 graduates during its commencement ceremonies on Saturday, which included an address by Governor Henry McMaster, who also received an honorary degree during the event.

Governor McMaster acknowledged the trials graduates faced throughout their college years and emphasized their potential to effect significant change in the world. He shared insights from his personal journey as a native South Carolinian, discussing how his background shaped his values and career. FMU faculty members praised the governor’s contributions to the state, highlighting his leadership in fostering economic growth, particularly during the pandemic.

This spring, FMU celebrated the accomplishments of both undergraduate and graduate students, with approximately 90 percent of this year’s graduates being residents of South Carolina. The university organized two graduation ceremonies that weekend, including one on Friday night, drawing families and friends eager to honor their student’s achievements.

Meanwhile, Limestone University faced turmoil as approximately 50 faculty members convened to discuss significant issues within the institution. The faculty unanimously voted to disinvite President Nathan Copeland, Executive Vice President Jeremy Whitaker, and the Board of Trustees from the final commencement ceremonies scheduled for May 3. The decision stemmed from a growing lack of confidence in the university’s leadership amid its financial crisis, with over $20 million in debt looming over the institution, prompting it to close at the end of May.

Concerns about a lack of transparency regarding financial matters further fueled the faculty’s discontent. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which monitors educational institutions for financial accountability and accreditation standards, is also involved in the scrutiny of Limestone’s situation. Representatives from SACSCOC have reported observing various college closures similar to that of Limestone, indicating a broader trend affecting higher education institutions.

In contrast, South Carolina State University is set to host its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony on May 9 at Oliver C. Dawson Football Stadium. The university has advised graduating students to obtain official information from the Registrar’s Office and order their academic regalia in advance. Additionally, a rehearsal is planned for May 8, where graduating seniors will receive guest tickets in the event of inclement weather.

Within the realm of collegiate athletics, the University of South Carolina achieved significant recognition by tying for third in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in terms of Graduation Success Rate (GSR), with a score of 94 percent. This measure assesses the percentage of scholarship student-athletes graduating within six years of their enrollment. The football team specifically scored a commendable 95 GSR, positioning it second in the SEC and ninth across all Power 5 schools. Remarkably, nine athletic teams at South Carolina achieved a perfect GSR of 100, including men’s soccer, men’s tennis, and women’s basketball. Thirteen NCAA teams surpassed the Division I national average for their respective sports, further highlighting the university’s commitment to academic success among its athletes.

The academic achievements of student-athletes have garnered pride from the Athletic Director, who emphasized the hard work of the students and the available resources designed to support their academic endeavors. As graduation season unfolds, the continued successes of institutions and their graduates, paired with the challenges faced by others, reflect the varying landscape of South Carolina’s educational community.