Benedict College Prepares for President Obama’s Visit

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Columbia , S.C. (WOLO) — Benedict College is preparing for a Presidential visit. On Friday, President Barack Obama will deliver remarks at Benedict College. President Obama’s visit Friday will be his first visit to the Palmetto State since becoming President. Students and faculty said they are excited and eager for him to arrive on campus. Benedict College’s time has come to be thrust into the national spotlight, with a visit from President Barack Obama. “It’s awesome actually, because not a lot of people get to see the President,” said student Jasmine Pratt. “I never thought I’d see him, just him coming here is a blessing for me,” added student Anthony Allen. A statement from the White House says President Obama will address students about making sure they’re taking advantage of opportunities in the community to compete in a global economy. “I think everyone can benefit from his views and what he feels is important for young black people and young people in general,” said student Sir Al Franklin. The President is expected to speak in the gymnasium on campus, where crews were hard at work Thursday getting ready for his arrival. “The primary concern, other than his message he gives when he’s here, is his safety and a lot of things are not decided until the last minute, a lot of things we really don’t know,” said Benedict College President David Swinton. Swinton said since the college received word of President Obama’s visit, they’ve been working steadily to prepare the campus and are working with secret service to ensure the highest level of security for the event. “Everyone has to be involved to make sure everything gets done to make sure it’s a successful visit here,” said Swinton. While the campus prepared Thursday, student said they were busy snagging their tickets. “It’s the best feeling in the world, words can’t even describe how I feel, just excited,” said Allen. President Swinton said several other college and university presidents from across the state will also be in attendance Friday.