South Carolina State University Faces Budget Threat After Commencement Speaker Controversy

South Carolina State University finds itself at the center of a political storm that could jeopardize its state funding after university leadership decided to remove Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette as the spring commencement speaker following student protests.

The controversy escalated quickly after President Alexander Conyers announced Wednesday evening that the university had decided "to move in a different direction" regarding the commencement speaker. What began as student demonstrations has now triggered a legislative response that threatens the financial stability of South Carolina's only public HBCU.

According to the lawmakers' letter addressed to Chairman Bannister, legislators expressed being "deeply concerned" about the decision to withdraw Evette as speaker. The letter noted that protesters opposed her positions on DEI, abortion, and her support for President Donald Trump. The lawmakers argued that a state institution supported by taxpayer dollars should not "capitulate" because some students disagree with Evette's political views.

Safety Concerns Cited

President Conyers explained that the university initially selected Evette based on her record as a business leader and entrepreneur, hoping graduates would benefit from hearing about her professional journey. However, safety considerations ultimately changed the university's direction.

"Out of an abundance of caution for safety and with careful consideration, the university has decided to move in a different direction for this Spring Commencement," Conyers said, according to WYFF.

Conyers added that Evette would be welcomed back later to engage with students, faculty, and staff outside the "celebratory nature" of commencement.

Lieutenant Governor Responds

Evette remained defiant following the university's decision, responding through social media and public statements.

"The fact that a speech had to be canceled for credible safety threats is exactly why we cannot give up the fight to end indoctrination and DEI on campuses once and for all," Evette wrote in a Facebook post, according to WYFF.

She also blamed faculty members for creating outrage at the expense of students, ending her message with "End tenure now!" At an earlier press conference following the protest, she was described as "unapologetic" about her comments and said her planned speech was intended to be uplifting. Evette also noted that the university president had not personally contacted her, according to reporter Nick Reynolds.

At an SC State Board of Trustees meeting, Board Chair Douglas Gantt—who has served on the board since 2019—said Conyers was acting on his behalf when the invitation was extended.

Political Fallout Intensifies

The House letter significantly raises the stakes for the institution. It states there is "no reason" state tax dollars should continue to fund a state institution where not all South Carolinians are welcome. The letter argues that if the lieutenant governor is unwelcome because of her politics, lawmakers should "defund and reevaluate" SC State.

What started as a student protest over a commencement speaker has evolved into a complex situation involving:

• The lieutenant governor
• The university president
• The Board of Trustees
• State lawmakers
• Public funding for the institution

For South Carolina State University, the challenge has extended beyond finding a new commencement speaker to navigating significant political fallout that could impact the institution's future state support—all just days before graduation ceremonies.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.