Higher education was in the spotlight at the State House today as Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette joined more than 200 students from over 30 colleges and universities for the fifth annual Higher Education Day, a statewide celebration of opportunity, student achievement, and the impact of financial aid in college success.

Participants from South Carolina public, technical, and independent colleges and universities attended the event, which also provided an opportunity to thank state leaders for their continued support of Need-Based Grants, Tuition Grants, and merit-based South Carolina Education Lottery scholarships that reduce the cost of college for thousands of students each year.

Gov. Henry McMaster issued a Governor’s Proclamation to observe the day and highlight the significance of higher education to South Carolina’s future. Evette presented the proclamation and offered words of encouragement to students.

“There’s so many pathways to success, whether it’s an independent college, whether it’s one of our universities, state universities, our amazing technical college system here in South Carolina, we are trying to open pathways to give young people the best chance of success they can get,” Evette said.

Evette emphasized the need for students to remain lifelong learners throughout their careers and not be afraid to pursue opportunities outside of their initial educational background. She explained how her own path evolved from majoring in accounting to becoming a business owner and ultimately lieutenant governor.

“Your options are broad and vast. Think big, dream big,” Evette said. “You are future leaders. You are the ones who will be passing this torch to carry on the great legacy, whether it’s down here at the State House, whether it’s starting a business of your own, or whether you take the helm of one of the amazing companies that we consider part of Team South Carolina.”

The event also underscored the connection between education and economic growth, as well as the importance of preparing students for careers in South Carolina’s evolving workforce. State higher education leaders noted that investments in scholarships and grants not only help students succeed, but also strengthen communities and support the state’s competitiveness.

“We want to make sure that every student who has a dream can find the college that meets their academic needs, and, just as important, provides a community where they feel comfortable and supported so that they can succeed,” said South Carolina Commission on Higher Education President and Executive Director L. Jeffrey Perez, Ph.D. “We’ve got private colleges, we’ve got technical colleges, we’ve got public four years. We’re all here today because it’s so important that we provide South Carolina with an array of higher education opportunities. We thank the lieutenant governor, the governor and the General Assembly for their support of financial aid. They make it possible for you all to go to school. They make it affordable.”

“You represent the diversity, the talent and the determination that defines South Carolina's next generation, and you will be filling positions as teachers, nurses, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists and community leaders,” said South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities President and Chief Executive Officer Robert B. Lloyd, Ph.D. “You will anchor local communities and invest in the future of the state and make it ever more successful. And we will work to support you.”

Students also visited the House chamber, where they were recognized by the General Assembly with a concurrent resolution.

Higher Education Day is a collaborative effort of the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education and South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities. Together, the partners work to highlight the shared mission of expanding educational opportunities and supporting student success across South Carolina.

Watch our Higher Ed Day Proclamation Ceremony on YouTube:

Additional photos are also available on the CHE Facebook.