The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees met on Friday (Oct. 13). Here’s a look at actions and events from the meeting.
USC officials condemn terrorist attacks in Israel
Board Chairman Thad Westbrook and President Michael Amiridis made comments in support of victims of the recent terrorist acts in Israel during Friday’s meeting. Read a transcript of the full remarks.
3 new undergraduate certificate programs approved
The board approved the creation of three new undergraduate certificate programs designed to give students, regardless of their major, key skills to win high-paying jobs with top employers. The new 12-credit-hour interdisciplinary certificate programs, which will be offered in spring 2024 pending approval by the SC Commission on Higher Education, include:
- Data Analytics and Visualization: students can learn web design, video production, database management, computer networking, social media content design and data visualization.
- Project Management and Leadership: students can learn to apply methods, concepts and tools to effectively manage projects and lead a team.
- Strategic Thinking and Communications: students can learn effective communication, professional writing, conflict resolution, strong public speaking and strategic team building.
This fall, USC launched a first-of-its-kind interdisciplinary certificate program in Digital Studies, giving students the opportunity to gain in-demand digital skills that prepare them for careers in every field. More than 140 students are currently enrolled in the Digital Studies program.
“At the University of South Carolina, we are continually asking ourselves how we can better equip our students to be the industry leaders of the future,” said Provost Donna Arnett. “These new interdisciplinary certificates will help us continue to give students what they need to be career-ready upon graduation.”
USC Dance program named in honor of alumna
Trustees approved the naming of the Betsy Blackmon Dance Program following a $2 million gift from Jane and Tommy Suggs. The naming is in honor of the Suggs’ late daughter, Elizabeth “Betsy” Keshaw Blackmon, an alumna of the Dance Performance and Choreography program. For more information on the gift, visit the program’s site.
Other approvals
The board approved updated campus mission statements for the USC system, including Aiken, Beaufort, Columbia, Upstate and the Palmetto College campuses at Lancaster, Salkehatchie, Sumter and Union.
Revisions to board policy BTRU 1.18 received approval, as well as minutes from past meeting and two presidential appointees to the Board of Visitors.