In my entire 36-year career, nothing has been more significant and meaningful to me.
— Scott Weiss, Professor of Music and Director of Orchestras, University of South Carolina School of Music
South Carolina State Representative Paula Calhoun presented the award on December 16, 2024, at the Palmetto Concert Band’s opening season concert, recognizing Weiss’ remarkable work with the University of South Carolina School of Music with the orchestras and bands, the Palmetto Concert Band and the Aiken Symphony Orchestra.
“Most importantly, Dr. Weiss has made significant contributions to the cultural fiber of South Carolina,” said Representative Calhoun.
Honoring Weiss’ impact on its community as conductor of the Aiken Symphony, Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner issued a proclamation decreeing January 11, 2025 to be Scott Weiss Day in Aiken.
“I’m honored beyond description to receive both the Order of the Palmetto and the
Proclamation from the city of Aiken. Thank you to Governor McMaster, State Representative
Paula Calhoun, and Mayor of Aiken Teddy Milner; and my deep appreciation goes to the
many colleagues, students, former students and friends that championed me for this
recognition,” said Weiss. “In my entire 36-year career, nothing has been more significant
and meaningful to me.”
A Sarah Bolick Smith Distinguished Professor of Music and Director of Orchestras, Weiss has degrees from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and the University of Illinois, where he studied conducting with Donald Schleicher. Before becoming a faculty member at the University of South Carolina in 2010, Weiss held conducting posts at the University of Kansas and the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music.
About the Order of the Palmetto
The first Order of the Palmetto Award was given in 1971 to recognize outstanding service to the state and industrialists who had located facilities in South Carolina. Since then the award has been used to recognize the outstanding achievements of South Carolina citizens. This award “recognizes individuals who have selflessly given of their time, resources and goodwill through a variety of different causes and pursuits to the benefit of their neighbors, fellow citizens and the fabric and prosperity of South Carolina” (Governor’s Awards & Certificates of Achievement, Congratulations, Special Recognitions). An individual must be formally nominated in writing for this award.