WATCH: Annual Address Calls for Keeping Campus Current

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) – At his ninth annual State of the University address Wednesday, University of South Carolina President Harris Pastides emphasized a need to stay current by recognizing the issues facing the world beyond campus. The call is part of his effort to create a “21st century” university, which he’s been working on since he became president in 2008.

“The great majority of our students come here as their first choice and not as a backup plan, even though they have lots of other fine public and private offers,” he said. Out of more than 25,000 applicants, this year’s freshman class is the most academically talented in school history. The average SAT score was 1215, a five point gain from last year. The 500 South Carolina honors college students brought an average 1442 SAT average, an 11 point gain from last year. Once again, the honors college was named the best in the nation out of public universities.

Pastides says parents know the value of a Carolina education, and recognize that while tuition increases have been moderate, 3.25 percent in five years, they need to be reined in. He agrees.

“We will continue to look at methods of revenue generation beyond our students, as well as tuition pricing policies that favor the majority of students.”

Pastides said 46 percent of USC students do not borrow any money at all, and those who do, leave with an average of around $28,000 in debt. Student debt is just one of a number of pressing issues plaguing university students across the nation.

“When social activities move from fun and dangerous…when they become the backdrop that leads to the abuse of women..and when our Columbia friends feel uncomfortable being our neighbors, it’s time for all of us to stand up and say stop,” the president said, referring to the issues of sexual assault, hazing and drug and alcohol abuse.

Pastides wants the school and its student body to promote inclusivity, in a world facing political, racial and economic tension.

“In fact, I believe that college must by a time for challenging conventions and studying ideas and concepts that are new, even if they are at odds with established norms,” he said. “Yet, we must also encourage respect for members of our Carolina family who have differing backgrounds and viewpoints.”