SC State president to speak at character recognition program

This year’s keynote speaker is U.S. Army Col. (Ret.) Alexander Conyers, 13th President of South Carolina State University.

A decorated veteran, Conyers served over 28 years in the United States Army, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing complex organizations. His military career included assignments at the Pentagon, South Korea, Canada, Afghanistan, Guantanamo Bay, and various U.S. locations.

Conyers also served in Washington, D.C., as a Senior Executive Service leader, holding the role of Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Review Boards), overseeing the Army Review Boards Agency, veterans, and their families on personnel and administrative appeals. He retired in 2016, after leading the Army’s largest military police brigade, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

A Manning native, Conyers holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from S.C. State, a master’s degree in corrections from the University of South Carolina, and a master’s degree in public administration from Troy University. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and The University of North Carolina’s Leadership, Excellence, and Development (LEAD) program.

Conyers remains active in professional and civic organizations, including the American Association of Blacks in Higher Education, and is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He previously served as an adjunct professor at Upper Iowa University. A lifelong supporter of South Carolina State University, Conyers has held various leadership roles in alumni and advisory capacities. His enduring commitment to SCSU earned him induction into the ROTC Hall of Fame and recognition as a Stellar Alumni Calendar Honoree.

This event brings together fifth graders from all across Orangeburg County to recognize students who have exemplified outstanding character. Participating schools include Orangeburg County School District elementary schools, Felton Laboratory Charter School, Orangeburg Preparatory Schools, and the Willie Jeffries School of Excellence. Each school has selected an honoree who embodies excellence in character and has also written an essay on a character based prompt. Over the years, students, faculty, administrators, and special guests have heard and engaged in messages promoting good character while enjoying music and entertainment. “This year will be another impactful program with students showcasing their leadership skills and talents,” says Executive Director Candace Berry-Vaughn. “The heart of youth development lies in fostering character. “When we invest in character development, we are doing far more than teaching them how to navigate the complexities of the world; we are instilling in them the virtues for greatness.”

To learn more about Orangeburg County Community of Character, opportunities to work together and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.orangeburgcharacter.org and follow via social media.