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35th Annual Scholarship Gala & Tribute

We are excited to join in support of South Carolina State University’s 130th Anniversary with the Foundation’s 35th annual Scholarship Gala & Tribute.

SHINING STARS

F.A.Q.

Foundation News

SC State University Foundation’s 2026 Gala

Thank You for Standing with Our Students

Thank you for your support of the 35th Annual Scholarship Gala & Tribute.

Because of your generosity, we will fund $60,000 in scholarships for our Shining Stars this year. We’re deeply grateful for your role in making that possible.

This year’s event took place in a more complex environment than in the past, including unexpected competition in the marketplace. While attendance and engagement were strong, event related costs impacted the overall proceeds available for scholarships. Throughout, our priority remained clear, protecting student support and stewarding resources responsibly.

At the same time, the evening allowed us to honor our Shining Stars and, for the first time, celebrate two North Star women honorees, while bringing our community together in meaningful support of our students.

As we look ahead, we are committed to clarity and focus. All gifts made in response to this outreach will be directed exclusively to student scholarships, supporting students as they enroll, persist, and graduate.

If you’d like to build on your support, we welcome your partnership in helping expand scholarship opportunities for our students. DONATE HERE

2026 Shining Stars

Come celebrate the brilliance of our North Star Honorees and the promise of our Shining Star Scholarship Recipients during an evening to remember.

South Carolina State University has nurtured undisputable talent. Thanks to the contributions of our dedicated alumni and sponsors. We couldn’t do it without you. Well this year we need you to come party with a purpose again.

The SCSU Foundation Scholarship Gala & Tribute is an opportunity for donors, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members to come together in support of SCSU students. This prestigious event supports the SCSU General Scholarship Fund. This fund provides need-based scholarships to deserving SCSU students from all backgrounds. The General Scholarship Fund is essential to strengthening SC State’s student recruitment and retention efforts. Your generous donations will help us provide these deserving scholars with the resources they need to achieve their academic goals.

Meet the 2026 Shining Stars

Where to Stay

Reserve Your Hotel Early

For your convenience, we have reserved blocks of rooms at the locations listed below. To make reservations online, click the links below. If you prefer to call, please reference the “SCSU Foundation Gala Group” to receive the special rate. Any reservation requests received after the cut-off dates will be based on availability at the hotel’s prevailing rate.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport Hotel & Convention Center

Call Now: 1-800-362-2779 with Group Code 932

5055 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418

Booking Deadline: April 1st, 2026

Frequently Asked Gala Questions & Answers

What is the difference between the Foundation’s Scholarship Gala and the University’s Garnet & Blue Extravaganza?

Both events celebrate South Carolina State University’s proud 130-year history and commitment to student achievement. The Foundation’s Thirty-Fifth Annual Scholarship Gala & Tribute, held in Charleston, continues a long-standing tradition of raising funds for the General Scholarship Fund, which provides direct, need-based aid to deserving students.

The University’s Garnet & Blue Extravaganza, hosted in Orangeburg, serves as the cornerstone of the University’s 130th Anniversary Celebration, with a goal of raising $1.3 million for student scholarships. Together, these events reflect one mission, advancing opportunity through education.

Why are there two separate galas this year?

This is a milestone year for SC State. The Foundation’s Scholarship Gala and Tribute, taking place in Charleston, honors a 35-year tradition of donor recognition and scholarship support, while the University’s Garnet & Blue Extravaganza serves as a capstone anniversary event in Orangeburg. Each reaches different audiences and offers unique ways to celebrate and contribute, expanding the overall reach and impact of our fundraising efforts.

Is the Foundation involved in the planning or support of the Garnet & Blue Extravaganza?

The Foundation and the University work collaboratively to advance shared goals around student scholarships and institutional growth. While the Foundation and University each manage their respective events, both are aligned under a unified purpose: ensuring that financial need never stands in the way of opportunity for SC State students. The Foundation proudly supports the University’s 130th Anniversary efforts and celebrates the continued partnership between the two entities.

Will funds raised from both events go to the same scholarship programs?

Both events support student scholarships, but through different funding streams. The Foundation’s Scholarship Gala directly benefits the Gala Scholarship Fund, which provides need-based financial assistance to students across all academic disciplines. The University’s Garnet & Blue Extravaganza supports the 130th Anniversary Scholarship Initiative to award 130 students a $10,000 scholarship. Collectively, both efforts strengthen SC State’s capacity to recruit, retain, and graduate deserving students.

Should alumni and donors plan to attend both events?

Absolutely. Each event offers a distinct and meaningful experience. The Scholarship Gala and Tribute provides an elegant evening celebrating philanthropy and student achievement, while the Orangeburg event will mark a historic moment on campus, celebrating 130 years of excellence, leadership, and Bulldog pride. Attending or supporting both is an extraordinary way to honor SC State’s legacy and invest in its future.

How can donors ensure their contributions reach their intended programs or funds?

Are the Foundation and the University competing for donations?

What is the overarching message for alumni, partners, and donors?

That South Carolina State University’s 130th Anniversary is a celebration of unity, legacy, and progress. Whether through the Foundation’s Scholarship Gala and Tribute in Charleston or the University’s Garnet & Blue Extravaganza in Orangeburg, every contribution represents a shared commitment to the next generation of Bulldog scholars. Together, we are honoring our past, strengthening our present, and building a future defined by opportunity and excellence.