It is my belief that the seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities in our state are among our most precious jewels. These institutes are learning centers that provide specific skills or trade to the learners, faculty, students, private partners, as well as, federal, state, local and non-profit partnering. HBCUs produce more than 50 percent of the state’s African-American college graduates. They are the foundations and historic investments in our community.

Although they were established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964, with the intention of primarily serving the Black community, they have been open to any and all students, regardless of their race or ethnicity.

To a considerable extent, some are unaware of the programs and services offered by these schools which help to produce workers needed to assist our state and nation in remaining a leader in science, technology, the arts, business, education and other disciplines. These institutions are needed to help our state maintain its competitive edge. These institutions as they move forward will continue to help this state maintain a promise of a strong economic, social, and cultured environment throughout this state.

I am pleased to be a part of helping to create the South Carolina Institutes of Innovation and Information (SCIII). This is an initiative that I believe will not only revolutionize the state’s HBCUs but develop and strengthen the relationships with our state’s businesses and industries.

I am grateful to my colleagues in the South Carolina Legislature for supporting this effort. I am confident that those businesses and industries that join forces with these institutions will not only identify some of the workers they will need but will enhance their overall progress and assist the state in attaining new levels of excellence.

The Late John L. Scott, Jr., Senator, South Carolina Legislature (1953-2023)