Important Update from the South Carolina State University Foundation

Dear Alumni, Supporters, Students, Faculty, Staff, and Community Partners,

Thank you for your continued generosity, commitment, and belief in the mission of the South Carolina State University Foundation. Your support, entrusted to the Foundation, makes it possible to provide meaningful opportunities for our students and to advance the long-term success of South Carolina State University. We do not take that responsibility lightly. I am writing to share an important update regarding recent discussions between the Foundation and University leadership.

On April 2, 2026, the Foundation Board formally responded to the University’s revised request for additional funding. After careful review, the Board determined that it is not in a position to approve the request at this time. A copy of the Board’s response letter is attached for your reference.

This decision reflects the Foundation’s fiduciary responsibility to you, our stakeholders and donors, as well as our obligation to ensure that the resources entrusted to us are managed with discipline, transparency, and a long-term perspective. This includes protecting the Foundation’s operating and capital reserves, which are essential to sustaining our operations, honoring donor intent, and ensuring we can meet both current and future commitments in support of students and the University.

We recognize the seriousness of the challenges outlined by the University and remain aligned in our commitment to student safety, institutional stability, and the long-term success of South Carolina State University. These priorities continue to guide the Foundation’s work and stewardship decisions.

At the same time, there are outstanding governance and coordination matters between the University and the Foundation that must be addressed. Resolving these issues is essential to maintaining the integrity of our shared mission, strengthening alignment, and ensuring that donor support is deployed as effectively and responsibly as possible.

This decision does not change the Foundation’s commitment to South Carolina State University or to you as our stakeholders. We remain fully engaged in advancing the University’s mission through responsible stewardship, strategic partnership, and continued engagement with our donor and alumni community.

We will continue to pursue constructive, solutions-oriented engagement with University leadership and partners to identify pathways forward that protect donor intent, support institutional priorities, and ensure long-term financial health and accountability.

Thank you again for your trust, your support, and your continued investment in the future of South Carolina State University.