DENMARK, S.C. (courtesy voorhees.edu) — South Carolina was awarded nearly $2 million in funding for one of the Palmetto State’s eight HBCUs, Rep. James E. Clyburn (D, S.C.–06) announced Jan. 16.
“Time and again, the Biden-Harris Administration has shown tremendous dedication to our nation’s HBCUs, and more specifically, institutions of higher learning in South Carolina,” Clyburn said. “Thanks to this latest investment, students at Voorhees University will have the tools they need to succeed.”
The Rural Postsecondary & Economic Development (RPED) Program aspires to help students in rural communities walk into career pathways “aligned to high skill, high wage, and in-demand industry sectors and occupations in the region,” according to the Department of Education.
Voorhees University President Ronnie Hopkins said he views the financial grant as a catalyst that will drive the improvement of life for the citizens in and around Denmark.
The Department of Education awarded grants to 22 institutions of higher education to help enrollment for students in rural communities. Voorhees University was the only South Carolina recipient included in this year’s funding cycle.
In addition to the initial funds, the grants will provide career counseling and individualized student planning to assist students in finding rewarding careers that do not require them to leave their community for economic opportunities.