SC State graduates celebrate accomplishment with message from Secretary of Defense

ORANGEBURG, SC (WOLO) — Thousands of students attend South Carolina State University down in Orangeburg.

Friday, Bulldog Nation graduated hundreds of students and welcomed a special guest to the ceremony.

“I know you’ve heard President Conyers say that you can get there from here. That has always been the story of America’s HBCUs,” said US Secretary of Defense and guest speaker Lloyd Austin. 

Austin addressed the graduates with a three-part message.

“The nation needs your gifts. The nation needs your resilience. The nation needs your service,” the four-star general said. “Congratulations Class of 2024. Let’s hear it for Bulldog Nation.”

The Class of 2024 was also excited to receive their diplomas.

“I graduated with a bachelor’s in computer science and a minor in robotics,” said Dea Blohalley. “I feel great right now. It’s been such a long journey and I’m very grateful.”

“I majored in family and consumer science, business and child development,” said Sapphire Swinton. “I feel so good. It’s been a long time coming.”

Swinton is a first generation college graduate.

“It’s really important,” she said. “I have my nieces and nephews out here today. I just want to be an example for them.”

Swinton and many of her classmates already have jobs lined up.

“I’m moving to Texas to be an English teacher,” she said.

“I plan on working as a software developer in North Carolina,” Blohalley said.

Both students say they enjoyed their time in Orangeburg and would recommend the HBCU experience. 

“Just the warm environment, as you can tell it’s so great,” Blohalley said. “I always had fun and built relationships with my processors as well.”

“Getting my degree was my favorite part,” Swinton laughed. “I loved the HBCU vibe and really enjoyed it.”

SC State currently enrolls around 2,600 students.