For two days, the��Supreme Court of South Carolina��traded its courtroom in Columbia for a stage in Clinton, offering students, educators and community members a rare opportunity to see justice unfold in real time at���㽶��.

The special session, held March 31–April 1 in Belk Auditorium, marked a significant outreach effort by the state’s highest court — one Chief Justice John W. Kittredge described as a “civics lesson on the road.”

“This is about bringing the court to the people,” Kittredge said, noting the strong turnout of students from across South Carolina. “We’ve been blown away by the interest.

Justice for every corner

For �㽶�� president��Dr. Anita Gustafson, the moment carried both institutional and civic significance.

“We are genuinely grateful you have chosen �㽶�� for this historic occasion,” she said in welcoming remarks. “Our students are watching real arguments before the highest court of South Carolina. They are seeing — not just reading about — how justice is argued, decided and delivered.” 

Gustafson framed the event as part of a broader mission to expand access to learning and civic understanding.

“This is a statement about who justice belongs to,” she said. “It belongs to everyone in every corner of this state.” 

Drawing on her background as a historian, Gustafson also reflected on the court’s legacy, noting its origins in the 1868 state constitution and its role as “the guardian of the rule of law” for more than 150 years.

Learning in real time

The audience included students from across the region — from middle schools to high schools and college classrooms — many experiencing oral arguments for the first time.

That exposure, Gustafson said, is transformational.

“Some of them will leave this room and carry what they witnessed into careers in law, public service, medicine, education and business,” she said. “They will carry it into their communities and into the world to make a difference.” 

That sentiment was echoed by��, a 2007 �㽶�� graduate, trustee and appellate attorney with in Columbia. The sessions took place on the Whitney B. Harrison Stage, named in recognition of her support for the college.

“�㽶�� is a place where people discover their calling,” Harrison said. 

Harrison, who once clerked for the state Supreme Court, described appellate law as work that shapes legal precedent for generations.

“Appellate courts are not here to decide what happens,” she said. “Their job is to determine what the law should be and how it should be applied.” 

For students in attendance, she added, the experience offers a glimpse into that process — one that demands precision, persistence and a deep sense of responsibility.

“I hope each of you finds your calling and has the courage to follow it,” Harrison said. 

A community effort

Hosting the court required weeks of coordination across campus and beyond, with Gustafson and others recognizing the contributions of faculty, staff and community partners who made the event possible.

Local and state leaders also emphasized the broader impact of bringing the court to Laurens County.

“This is truly a great laboratory experience,” said S.C. Sen. Danny Verdin, who represents District 9. “Bless you for bringing the courthouse to Laurens County.” 

Verdin placed the visit in a wider historical context, noting the long-standing importance of law and justice in shaping communities.

“An exceptional experience is before us today,” he said, adding that its effects “will be long-lasting and measured in years to come.” 

State Rep. Doug Gilliam echoed that sentiment, calling the event a rare opportunity for citizens to witness the judicial process firsthand.

“This is democracy in action,” Gilliam said. 

Bridging classroom and courtroom

Throughout the sessions, the justices heard oral arguments in a range of cases, including civil and criminal appeals involving issues such as immunity under state law, jury procedures and post-conviction relief.

But for many in attendance, the substance of the cases was secondary to the experience itself — seeing how legal arguments are presented, questioned and weighed at the highest level.

Kittredge emphasized that point, encouraging students to engage with the process and recognize its relevance to their lives.

“We hope this is an enjoyable experience for you,” he said, addressing the audience of students and educators.

Lasting Impact

For �㽶��, the visit represented more than a two-day event. It was a convergence of mission, opportunity and public service — one that connected classroom learning with real-world application.

By bringing the Supreme Court to campus, Gustafson said, the college created a moment that could shape how students understand both their education and their role in society.

And for those who filled Belk Auditorium — from aspiring attorneys to curious middle schoolers — the experience offered something rare: a close-up view of how justice works, and who it serves.

As Verdin noted, the significance of that moment may not be fully realized until years later.

But its impact, he suggested, is already underway.

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 The world of business has always been of interest to assistant professor of accounting Scott Barker ’93, even as a teenager. 

As a Laurens native, Barker attended �㽶�� after finishing high school, where he majored in business and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1993. 

“I think I’ve always had an interest in business,” he said. “And when I got here, Dr. Jerry Slice and Dr. Suzie Smith were my professors, and they helped spur that interest along, too.” 

The road back to �㽶��

After graduating from �㽶��, Barker worked for for five years before working for the , where he spent 16 years. 

Soon after beginning work at the SCDOR, Barker began teaching nighttime business courses at Piedmont Technical College as an adjunct professor, a position he held until retirement. 

Barker made the transition to full-time teaching in 2023 after retiring from both the state and his position at Piedmont Tech, having come across an open position within �㽶��’s business administration program. 

“It was a chance for me to come back to Presbyterian,” he said. “I enjoyed my years when I was here, and it was a way for me to reconnect to the college.” 

Since then, Barker has spent 3 years at �㽶�� as a professor of accounting, though he has taught a variety of classes within the program. 

As an alumnus, the opportunity to come back and serve his alma mater has been incredibly fulfilling for Barker, along with the chance to work side by side with his former professors who inspired him so much when he was a student. 

“I still look at Dr. Slice and Dr. Smith as my professors,” he said. “I still view them that way, even though I’m working with them in the department.” 

A future of growth and community

What excites Barker the most about the coming years at the college is the opportunity for growth, both within the department and in campus interactions with the surrounding community. 

“I had a student, Emma Erwin, who worked on a project last semester studying the economic impact of �㽶�� on the community, and it was really good to not only see a student do that work, but to see how �㽶�� as a whole impacts not just the surrounding community, but the county as a whole,” he said. 

In addition to looking forward to more opportunities to work with dedicated students, Barker hopes to continue to strengthen the impact of the college on the nearby community.

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A new study conducted in �㽶��’s Economics and Business Administration Department has confirmed what local residents have long believed — that �㽶�� plays a vital role in sustaining the economy of Laurens County.

Under the supervision of assistant professor of accounting Scott Barker, senior economics student Emma Erwin measured the institution’s total financial footprint across the county, including spending by faculty, staff, students and visitors, as well as institutional operations and community investments.

According to the study, �㽶�� contributed an estimated $48.1 million to the Laurens County economy during fiscal year 2025, supporting 421 jobs countywide — nearly 2.5% of all employment in the county.

The college directly employs 305 faculty and staff members, with an additional 116 jobs supported through indirect and induced economic effects. The research found that 54% of �㽶�� employees would not live in Laurens County without their college employment, underscoring the institution’s role as a population anchor for the region.

Understanding the numbers

The $48.1 million figure represents a conservative and precise measurement using new technology to produce precise data.

“Think of it like measuring your house with a yardstick versus a laser measure,” Barker said. 

The 2025 study employed strict geographic boundaries, counting only purchases made from businesses physically located in Laurens County. Earlier research included some spending that occurred in neighboring counties. Additionally, Erwin’s analysis used updated economic modeling software with more conservative multiplier effects — the ripple impact that occurs when money circulates through the local economy.

The COVID-19 pandemic also fundamentally altered spending patterns between 2018 and 2025, Barker noted. Supply chains shifted, remote work increased and consumer behavior changed in ways that affect how dollars flow through rural economies.

“What’s most important is that �㽶�� continues to be one of the largest and most stable economic forces in Laurens County,” Barker said. “The college directly employs more than 300 people, supports more than 400 jobs total and generates roughly $682 in economic activity for every man, woman and child in the county. That’s a substantial and continuing commitment to this community.”

Building on a legacy of scholarship

The results build upon earlier studies conducted under the guidance of professor emeritus Norman Scarborough, a longtime professor of business and entrepreneurship whose student researchers first began quantifying �㽶��’s local impact more than a decade ago.

�㽶��’s record of analyzing its economic impact began in 2013, when Scarborough and a team of students conducted pioneering studies on the School of Pharmacy and the College of Arts and Sciences.

Those early studies categorized �㽶��’s influence in three tiers:

• Direct effects, such as payroll and institutional spending;
• Indirect effects, the ripple impact of local purchasing and contracting; and
• Induced effects, the additional household spending that stems from wages earned by those who benefit from the first two categories.

Scarborough explained the significance succinctly at the time.

“I shudder to think what the local economy would be like without the college here,” he stated.

The project set a precedent for hands-on learning and community partnership — hallmarks of �㽶��’s business and economics program.

A recognized cornerstone of Clinton’s economy

Independent data from the City of Clinton has long reinforced �㽶��’s role as an economic cornerstone.

The City of Clinton Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (2014) identified �㽶�� as one of the community’s largest institutional employers and utility customers, along with the Presbyterian Home and the Whitten Center.

While that report did not assign dollar values to the college’s contributions, it recognized �㽶�� as a stabilizing presence in the city’s fiscal health — a steady partner through cycles of economic expansion and contraction.

Where the money goes

Erwin’s research revealed that �㽶��’s economic influence touches nearly every sector of the local economy.

Her study drew from surveys of 101 undergraduate students, 64 graduate students and 102 faculty and staff members, combined with detailed institutional expenditure data from the college’s Office of the Controller. She employed IMPLAN software — the industry standard for economic impact analysis — using 2024 data for Laurens County.

The analysis found that spending breaks down into two major categories: $34.6 million from faculty, staff and student expenditures, and $13.5 million from institutional operations.

The largest spending categories include tax payments ($12.6 million), home-related expenses such as mortgages, utilities and repairs ($11.3 million), and food purchases at restaurants and grocery stores ($3.7 million). Additional spending supports transportation, retail, recreation, medical services and insurance providers throughout the county.

Graduate students, despite comprising just 242 of the college’s 1,095 total enrollment, contribute $8.8 million annually to the local economy — more than double the $4.3 million generated by 853 undergraduate students. The difference reflects graduate students’ higher likelihood of living off campus and maintaining households in the community.

The study also quantified visitor spending, estimating that out-of-town guests staying with �㽶�� students and employees contribute an additional $314,000 annually to local hotels, restaurants and retail establishments. Erwin’s study did not include data on the economic impact of Division 1 athletics at �㽶��, however – which means the economic impact of sports at �㽶�� drives that number even higher.

According to the analysis, every dollar �㽶�� spends in Laurens County generates approximately $1.17 in total economic output — a multiplier effect typical of rural counties where many goods and services are sourced from outside the immediate region.

College leaders praise student research

�㽶�� president Dr. Anita Gustafson said the findings highlight both the rigor of the college’s academic programs and the enduring partnership between �㽶�� and the people of Laurens County.

“Emma Erwin’s research represents exactly the kind of hands-on, community-engaged scholarship that defines a �㽶�� education,” Gustafson said. “Her work demonstrates that our students don’t just study economic theory — they apply it to real-world questions that matter to our neighbors and community partners.”

Gustafson added that the study reaffirms the college’s deep roots in Laurens County.

“For nearly 150 years, �㽶�� has stood alongside the City of Clinton as a partner in growth and service,” she said. “This research confirms what we see every day — that the college and the community thrive together. Our students, faculty and staff don’t just work and learn here; they invest their time, energy and resources to make Laurens County stronger.”

She noted that the economic impact extends beyond measurable dollars to include community service, cultural enrichment and educational partnerships that enhance quality of life throughout the region.

Impact beyond economics

While Erwin’s study focuses on measurable economic outcomes, �㽶��’s influence reaches much further — into the daily life and spirit of Laurens County. The college’s longstanding culture of service strengthens local communities, builds partnerships and amplifies its positive effect on the region.

Each year, hundreds of students and faculty members participate in Fall Service Day, working alongside local organizations such as Springdale Methodist Church, the Humane Society, the Clinton Community Garden and the Laurens County Public Library Garden to beautify shared spaces and lend helping hands. These volunteer efforts not only assist local nonprofits but also foster civic pride and stronger town-gown relationships across the county.

New students are introduced to �㽶��’s service ethic from the moment they arrive on campus through the Rise Against Hunger project sponsored by First Presbyterian Church of Clinton that brings students and residents together to package thousands of meals for families facing food insecurity around the world.

And when crisis strikes, that same spirit shines brightest. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in 2024, more than 200 �㽶�� students volunteered in neighborhoods across Clinton and beyond, clearing debris, aiding residents and embodying the college’s enduring motto — “While We Live, We Serve.”

These efforts, though not quantified in the new economic study, represent a different kind of investment — one measured in human connection, community trust and collective resilience. Together, they reveal that �㽶��’s impact on Laurens County is as much about service and stewardship as it is about economic strength.

A foundation for continued growth

Erwin’s report concludes that �㽶�� remains one of the largest and most stable contributors to Laurens County’s economy, providing a foundation for continued regional development.

The $48.1 million annual impact represents approximately $682 for every resident of Laurens County’s estimated population of 70,545. The 421 jobs supported by �㽶�� represent 1.4% of county employment, with the college’s 305 direct employees accounting for another 1.02% — a combined employment impact of 2.42%.

The study notes that �㽶��’s influence is particularly significant given Laurens County’s ongoing economic transition away from traditional textile manufacturing toward advanced manufacturing, logistics and service industries.

As the research demonstrates, �㽶��’s motto — “While We Live, We Serve” — extends far beyond the classroom. It is reflected in every paycheck issued, every student meal purchased, every renovation project launched and every event that brings visitors to downtown Clinton.

By continuing to quantify its impact and share that information with the public, �㽶�� reaffirms its role not only as an academic institution but as a cornerstone of the Laurens County economy — one that remains as vital today as it was when its first students walked through its doors in 1880.

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�㽶�� will host a half-day professional development workshop, “The Power of Play for ALL,” on Saturday, March 28, bringing educators together to explore how play-based learning can enhance classroom experiences for all students.

This year’s Charles Chadwell Special Education Institute, led by nationally recognized educator and author Jed Dearybury, will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Chapman Conference Center at Jacobs Hall. The event is free and open to the public, though registration is required due to limited seating capacity.��

Designed for educators across disciplines—including general and special education teachers, administrators, and support staff—the session will focus on the neuroscience of play and its role in fostering meaningful, inclusive learning environments.��Participants will engage in hands-on activities and discussions aimed at translating research into practical classroom strategies. Organizers say the workshop emphasizes that play is not limited to early childhood settings but is a critical component of learning for individuals of all ages and abilities.��

“The work of play is for everyone,” according to the event description, which highlights its relevance for students, teachers, and administrators alike.��

Dearybury brings more than two decades of experience in education to the program. He began his career in 2001 and quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach to teaching. His accolades include being named Male Leader of the Year by��GQ Magazine��and receiving South Carolina honors for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.��

A National Board certified early childhood generalist, Dearybury was also a top-five finalist for South Carolina Teacher of the Year and the state’s first Milken Fellow. Since leaving the classroom in 2015, he has become a sought-after speaker and consultant, delivering professional development programs around the world.��In 2019, he founded his own consulting firm, , where he serves as director of creativity and innovation. His work spans early childhood education, children’s literature, and the integration of creativity and fine arts into learning.��

Dearybury is also an accomplished author and illustrator. His published works include��The Playful Classroom,��Courageous Classroom, and��The Playful Life. His debut children’s book,��The��Rainbow Tree, was released in June 2025.��

Event organizers say the workshop aligns with a growing body of research demonstrating that play-based learning supports cognitive development, social-emotional growth, and student engagement. By grounding the session in neuroscience, the program aims to equip educators with both the “why” and the “how” behind incorporating play into their teaching practices.

The workshop is part of �㽶��’s ongoing efforts to support educators and promote inclusive learning strategies. For more information, attendees may contact Dr. Julia Wilkins.��

The Charles H. Chadwell Endowment for Special Education was established at �㽶�� in 1984 by Francis E. Cothran and his wife, Jean Syminton Cothran. Part of the endowment provides seminars, lectures, and workshops led by recognized authorities in fields related to special education. These events promote a better understanding of the circumstances faced by individuals with disabilities and their families.

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When the Supreme Court of South Carolina convenes a special term at �㽶�� later this spring, the event will offer more than a rare chance to watch the state’s highest court in action. It will also bring free legal services to local residents and highlight the real-world issues that come before the court.

The Supreme Court will hold two days of oral arguments in Belk Auditorium on March 31 and April 1, hearing four cases and answering questions from students after each session. Proceedings will begin at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. each day, giving students, educators and community members an inside look at the appellate process and the role of the judiciary in South Carolina government. 

In addition to the court sessions, a mobile legal clinic from the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law Pro Bono Program will provide free legal assistance to area residents.

Free legal clinic offered through Palmetto LEADER

The Palmetto LEADER mobile law office will be parked outside the Harrington-Peachtree Center on the �㽶�� campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 31.

Volunteer attorneys and USC law students will provide free assistance with wills and powers of attorney to qualified residents. The mobile clinic is part of the law school’s effort to expand access to legal services in communities across South Carolina, particularly in areas where residents may have difficulty obtaining legal help.

The clinic’s presence during the Supreme Court’s visit underscores a broader theme of the event: bringing the law directly to the public while giving students an opportunity to see how the justice system works both in the courtroom and in the community.

Four cases scheduled during special session

Over the two-day visit, the justices will hear four cases covering a range of legal issues, from civil liability and self-defense laws to criminal appeals and post-conviction claims. 

March 31 — Session I (10 a.m.)
The Court will hear Antoinet Moore, individually and as personal representative of the Estate of David J. Wilson v. Green’s Grocery, LLC and Mahmoud A. Yousef. The case centers on a fatal shooting at a convenience store and whether immunity granted to a store employee under South Carolina’s Protection of Persons and Property Act also shields the store owner and business from civil liability. 

March 31 — Session II (11:30 a.m.)
In consolidated cases involving Quinterris Javon Carmichael and Tirik Jaquan Johnson-Epps, the Court will consider whether a trial judge committed reversible error by refusing to individually poll jurors after their guilty verdict in a murder case. The defendants argue that denying the request violated their legal rights and warrants a new trial. 

April 1 — Session III (10 a.m.)
The Court will hear Bayan Aleksey v. State of South Carolina, a post-conviction relief case involving a man sentenced to death for the 1997 killing of a South Carolina Highway Patrol officer. Aleksey argues he should not face the death penalty because he is intellectually disabled, while the state maintains the lower court correctly rejected that claim. 

April 1 — Session IV (11:30 a.m.)
In Maurice Roberts v. State of South Carolina, the Court will examine whether a defendant’s Sixth Amendment right to effective counsel was violated when his attorney failed to object to jury instructions regarding intent in an attempted murder charge. The case raises questions about whether trial counsel should have anticipated a later ruling clarifying that specific intent to kill is required under state law. 

Rare opportunity for students

Following each oral argument, the justices will take questions from students attending the sessions, including students from Upstate public schools. The format allows students to learn about the judicial system directly from members of the state’s highest court and to gain insight into how appellate decisions are made.

The Supreme Court is composed of Chief Justice John W. Kittredge and four associate justices—John Cannon Few, George C. James Jr., D. Garrison Hill and Letitia H. Verdin. 

One justice also has a connection to �㽶��: Justice Verdin’s father, Harry Hamilton, was a �㽶�� student-athlete who played quarterback and pitcher from 1951 to 1955. 

Open to the public

All sessions in Belk Auditorium are free and open to the public, offering the community a chance to witness appellate arguments and observe the judicial branch at work.

With the addition of the Palmetto LEADER mobile legal clinic available on March 31, the two-day visit will provide both an educational experience for students and a practical service for the community—demonstrating how the law functions not only in courtrooms but also in everyday life.

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Dr. Ronald D. Burnside, a longtime member of the �㽶�� faculty whose engaging lectures, high academic standards, and personal kindness shaped generations of students, died Jan. 17 in Bethlehem, Ga. He was 93.

Burnside joined the �㽶�� faculty in 1963 and taught history for 34 years, serving as both professor and chair of the history department. Known for his ability to bring history to life, he emphasized strong writing skills and critical thinking, helping students understand how the past informs the present and future.

He was named �㽶��’s Professor of the Year in 1981 and 1994 and received the college’s Distinguished Service Award in 1987 and again in 1994.

�㽶�� president Dr. Anita Gustafson, who joined the college’s faculty in 1997 to fill Burnside’s position in the history department, remembers meeting him for the first time. 

“Dr. Ron Burnside warmly welcomed me to the �㽶�� community and did everything he could to make sure that my transition to �㽶�� was a smooth one,” she said. “The tone he set for the history department was one of supportive collegiality, and I believe that attitude has continued over the years.”��

Former students frequently credited Burnside with influencing their academic and professional paths. 

Brad Bryant ’75 wrote in a Facebook post that Burnside was “one of the more influential professors in my life,” adding that he worked harder in Burnside’s class than perhaps any other. 

Bryant said the emphasis Burnside placed on writing “carried the day in law school,” calling him one of the great teachers for whom he was thankful. 

Melissa Adair ’93, also writing on Facebook, recalled Burnside’s distinctive lecturing style, saying he spoke “like a grandfather telling his grandchildren a story.”

She remembered him pacing the front of the classroom, hands in his pockets, rarely using notes, while students hurried to keep up. “To this day, I still bring him up in conversation when I see someone else explain things in his style of lecture,” she wrote.

Dr. Dave Gillespie, a professor emeritus of political scientist and former provost, served alongside Burnside for nearly 20 years.

“�㽶�� at the time possessed a small stable of ‘faculty legends,’ most of them probably aware that they lodged there,” he said. “Ron was indisputably one of those legends, though I seriously doubt that he ever thought that thought.”

Later, as Gillespie transitioned from the classroom to a new role as vice president of academic affairs, his regard for Burnside only deepened.

“During my time as vice president, I doubt that �㽶�� employed a faculty member who could teach more ably or care for students more fully than Ron Burnside,” he said. “He was a fierce though friendly competitor in ping pong and volleyball. He had a wicked sense of humor. I know that, having found myself the butt of a joke or two originating with him. Ron and Betty have been lovely people, wonderful parents for their daughter and son. Ron loved God and his church, his nation and this college, and his students, colleagues, and friends.” 

Born May 27, 1932, in Vincennes, Indiana, Burnside served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, attaining the rank of first lieutenant. During his service, he met his wife, Betty, to whom he was married for 67 years.

Burnside earned his doctorate in history from Indiana University before beginning his career at �㽶��. Beyond the classroom, he was a familiar and beloved presence on campus, teaching dance classes such as the foxtrot and swing, competing in ping-pong tournaments and delighting in upsetting younger opponents.

For many, those dance classes became lasting memories. In addition to frequent classes in Springs Student Center, the Burnsides taught couples how to dance at the Laurens YMCA. 

“My wife, Marie, and I have a framed photo of our first dance as a married couple – a waltz that wouldn’t have been possible without Ron and Betty Burnside’s expertise and encouragement,” said Hal Milam, marketing and communications specialist at �㽶��. “They hold a very special place in our hearts and we’ll never forget that.” 

Burnside was also deeply committed to mental health advocacy, serving on the Laurens Mental Health Board and playing a key role in establishing the area’s first independent housing for individuals with mental health needs. The facility, Burnside Manor, was named in recognition of his leadership and advocacy.

A lover of music, Burnside was known for his near-constant whistling and for playing a wide range of instruments, including the harmonica, cello and dulcimer. He performed with the band Yesterukes and sang alongside his wife in the choir in Clinton and the .

His passion for learning extended overseas. He spent four months in China teaching American history at Beijing University while immersing himself in Chinese culture.

After retiring, Ron and Betty Burnside moved to in Laurens.

Burnside is survived by his wife, Betty; two children, Kimberly Bishop and Timothy Burnside and his wife, Lisa; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at the Martha Franks Rasor Chapel. Service details will be announced at a later date.

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�㽶�� will host the for a special term of court this spring, offering students, educators and community members a rare opportunity to witness the state’s highest court in action.

The Court will convene in��Belk Auditorium��on��Tuesday, March 31, and��Wednesday, April 1, hearing two cases each morning. Hearings will take place at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. daily. After each argument, the justices will entertain questions from the students.

will livestream both days of proceedings.

Educational opportunity for students and schools

�㽶�� will welcome middle school and high school students from local schools, along with �㽶�� students from across academic disciplines. The sessions will give young people a first-hand look at the judicial process, appellate arguments, and the role of the judiciary in state government.

�㽶�� president Dr. Anita Gustafson said hosting the state’s highest court reflects the college’s longstanding commitment to public service, civic education and democratic engagement.

“We are honored to welcome the Supreme Court of South Carolina to �㽶��,” Gustafson said. “Providing our students—and students from throughout the region—an opportunity to witness the judicial process in action aligns perfectly with �㽶��’s mission. We challenge our students to become engaged citizens who understand how institutions of government operate and why they matter.”

About the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of South Carolina is the state’s highest appellate authority. The Court is composed of a chief justice and four associate justices, all elected by the to staggered 10-year terms. Justices may be re-elected to additional terms.

The Court exercises both appellate and original jurisdiction. It has exclusive authority to hear appeals involving death sentences, constitutional challenges, election matters, bonded indebtedness and certain orders from the and . The Court also reviews family and circuit court rulings in post-conviction relief cases. The Supreme Court may also review a decision of the by issuing a writ of certiorari, and it may affirm, reverse, or modify the Court of Appeals’ decision.

In its original jurisdiction, the Supreme Court may agree to hear cases directly when significant public interest is involved. The Court may also answer legal questions certified by federal courts or the highest courts of other states.

A tradition of judicial engagement

Since its creation in 1868, the Supreme Court of South Carolina has periodically held special sessions outside of Columbia to expand public access and engage with schools and communities. The session at �㽶�� continues that tradition, allowing students and citizens to observe the deliberative process of the state’s judicial branch.

“The Supreme Court cares deeply about the state of South Carolina and its citizens,” said . “We hope you will sense that commitment, and in turn, you will gain an appreciation and respect for all in the Judicial Branch who strive to uphold the rule of law. Please join the Supreme Court at �㽶��!” 

Open to the public

All proceedings in Belk Auditorium are free and open to the public, and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Further details about parking and visitor guidance will be announced closer to the event.

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CLINTON, S.C. – �㽶�� Director of Athletics Dee Nichols has named  as the 18^th head football coach in program history, announced on Monday morning.

Rahl – who holds 24 years of experience as an assistant coach, including three FBS programs – has served as �㽶��’s offensive line coach, run game coordinator, and offensive recruiting coordinator for the past two seasons. He takes over a program that reached new heights in 2025 with his guidance, helping the Blue Hose post a 16-8 record since arriving.

Presbyterian will host an introductory press conference for Rahl next Monday, January 5 at 1:00 PM. The event will be held at the Ross E. Templeton Center.

“We are proud to welcome our new head coach to the �㽶�� family, even though he is no stranger to the program,” commented Nichols. “Matt has been an integral part of our success over the last two seasons. He is an individual who values character, accountability, and team culture as much as wins on the field.

“Coach Rahl will continue Blue Hose Football’s winning tradition with a focus on his players’ academic excellence and character development,” remarked �㽶�� President Dr. Anita Gustafson. “He is the right man to take the helm of our football program, and I am excited about the future of Blue Hose Football.”

Rahl developed the �㽶�� offensive line to record numbers in 2025, setting a new single-season school record with 2,124 rushing yards as the Blue Hose achieved their third-ever 10-win campaign. Presbyterian reached as high as #16 in the AFCA Coaches Poll, another all-time best.

“I am extremely honored and thankful to be named the Head Football Coach at Presbyterian,” Rahl said. “I’m truly grateful to Dee Nichols, Dr. Anita Gustafson, and the �㽶�� administration for their belief in me to lead this program.

“I cannot wait to get back to campus with our team and begin to work towards our goals! Go Blue Hose! Win Today!”

Presbyterian (2024-Present)

– Rahl’s elevation to Head Coach at �㽶�� can be traced back to the team’s extraordinary 2025 journey, a season that saw a school-record 11-game winning streak and numerous program milestones.

– The Blue Hose won their final four contests of the 2024 season by an average of 18 points per game, carrying that momentum to a 7-0 start the following year. �㽶�� was included in both the AFCA Coaches Poll and Stats Perform national rankings simultaneously for six consecutive weeks, the longest stretch for any team in the Pioneer Football League since 2009.

– �㽶�� rushed for 26 total touchdowns last season, ranking 16^th in FCS with an average of 34 points per game. The Blue Hose produced 417 total yards per game (27^th nationally) and also ranked inside the FCS top 30 in fewest sacks allowed.

– Eleven Presbyterian players were voted all-conference last month – another program record – with six of them on the offensive end. Quarterback  was a finalist for the FCS Walter Payton Award and was chosen as the PFL Offensive Player of the Year. Tight end  was also named a Second-Team All-American by Stats Perform and FCS Football Central.

– �㽶�� went undefeated at Bailey Memorial Stadium last fall, the first time that they’d managed a full season without a home loss since 1998 (minimum six games). Dating back to 2024, Presby has won eight in a row on their home turf.

Missouri Southern State (2020-23)

– Prior to joining the staff at �㽶��, Rahl spent four seasons at his alma mater, Missouri Southern State University, where he was the Associate Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator.

– The Lions improved their overall record in each of Rahl’s last three years calling plays, ranking seventh in Division II for fewest sacks allowed in 2023.

– Running back Nathan Glades and tight end Deontay Campbell were both named Second Team All-MIAA in 2022 and 2023 respectively.

– Rahl’s final game as a Missouri Southern staff member was a 47-41 overtime victory versus #19 Missouri Western. Opponents only reached three tackles-for-a-loss per game against Rahl’s offense, the second-fewest in Division II.

UTEP (2018-19)

– Rahl was hired to his third Football Bowl Subdivision school before rejoining Missouri Southern, becoming the Recruiting Coordinator and later Offensive Quality Control at the University of Texas at El Paso.

– In two years with the Miners, Rahl assisted all phases of special teams and oversaw all aspects of UTEP recruiting. In 2019, UTEP ranked inside the FBS top 15 in fewest penalty yards per game and blocked four field goal attempts throughout the year (10^th nationally).

McKendree (2014-17)

– Prior to UTEP, Rahl spent four seasons as the Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach at McKendree University in Illinois. Before his last year with the Bearcats, he was promoted to Associate Head Coach.

– McKendree posted a 16-5 combined record in back-to-back campaigns with Rahl directing the offense, establishing 13 GLVC individual and team records along the way.

– Taking over a program that had endured three straight losing seasons before his arrival, Rahl engineered a dramatic statistical turnaround and was named a finalist for the FootballScoop.com Division II National Coordinator of the Year award in 2015.

– That year, the Bearcats stacked up 489 offensive yards per game, good enough to rank eighth in the country. They lost only 10 turnovers in 10 games (the fourth-fewest in all of D-II) and registered 39 points per contest.

– In 2016, McKendree closed the season with five consecutive victories while surpassing 40 points in three of those affairs. They realized eight wins for the second time in as many years despite shifting through four different starting quarterbacks due to injury.

Wyoming (2009-13)

– Before his profitable tenure at McKendree, Rahl was a member of Wyoming’s staff in the Mountain West Conference over a period of five seasons. He served as the Cowboys’ recruiting coordinator over the duration of his time there, as well as a two-year stint coaching the defensive line.

– Wyoming’s first season with Rahl on the sideline ended with a victory in the 2009 New Mexico Bowl over Fresno State (35-28). The Cowboys became bowl-eligible with a one-point win at Colorado State in the regular season finale.

– Two years later (2011), Wyoming garnered eight regular-season wins for the first time since 1998 and would return to the New Mexico Bowl once more. In his only instance coaching the defensive side of the ball, Rahl’s Cowboys ranked second in FBS for most turnovers forced and ninth in turnover margin.

– When Rahl was hired at Wyoming, he became the program’s first-ever director of recruiting. By the time he departed for McKendree, Wyoming had witnessed its highest-ranked recruiting class in school history.

Missouri (2007-08)

– Rahl was given his first job at an FBS institution at the University of Missouri under legendary head coach Gary Pinkel. The Tigers achieved humongous success in the two years that Rahl was a Graduate Assistant, posting a combined record of 22-6.

– Beginning the 2007 season outside the AP top 25, Missouri ended up with 12 total victories to set a then-program record. After defeating second-ranked Kansas 36-28 in the regular season finale, the Tigers would be granted the #1 AP ranking for the first time since 1960.

– Missouri won the Big 12 North Division in both of Rahl’s seasons there, thus qualifying for the Conference Championship Game on both occasions. They won the 2007 Cotton Bowl over #25 Arkansas (38-7) and were also the victors of the 2008 Alamo Bowl against #22 Northwestern (30-23 in overtime).

– The Tigers ranked in the NCAA top ten in total offense and scoring offense over this period, while running back Tony Temple set a Cotton Bowl single-game record with 281 rushing yards along with four touchdowns.

Winona State (2003-06)

– Before climbing up the ranks at Missouri, Rahl spent four seasons with the D-II Winona State Warriors in Minnesota and contributed to a 38-10 record over that stretch. He started with a GA position, before later being promoted to coaching the offensive line and special teams.

– Winona State qualified for the Division II Playoffs in three of Rahl’s four seasons, going on four separate winning streaks of at least five games.

– In the 2004 season, the Warriors averaged a whopping 43 points per game to close the regular season with eight straight wins. They would one-up those numbers the following year, putting up 47 points per game during a seven-game window.

Beginnings at Missouri Southern State (1999-2002)

– A native of Union, Mo., Rahl enrolled at Missouri Southern State as a tight end and suited up for three seasons at the turn of the century. He spent the 2002 season as a student assistant coach, working with the offensive line and tight end groups as he moved towards his college diploma.

– He would receive a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Missouri Southern in 2003, going on to earn a master’s in educational leadership from Winona State in 2005.

– Matt and his wife Carrie have three children: Hattie, Maggie, and Locke.

THE RAHL PORTFOLIO

2024-25: Presbyterian (Offensive Line + Run Game Coordinator + Offensive Recruiting)

2021-23: Missouri Southern State (Associate Head Coach + Offensive Coordinator)

2020: Missouri Southern State (Associate Head Coach + Offensive Coordinator + Offensive Line)

2019: UTEP (Offensive Quality Control)

2018: UTEP (Recruiting Coordinator)

2017: McKendree (Associate Head Coach + Offensive Coordinator)

2014-16: McKendree (Offensive Coordinator + Offensive Line)

2009-10, 2013: Wyoming (Recruiting Coordinator)

2011-12: Wyoming (Recruiting Coordinator + Defensive Line)

2007-08: Missouri (Graduate Assistant)

2005-06: Winona State (Offensive Line + Special Teams Coordinator)

2003-04: Winona State (Graduate Assistant)

2002: Missouri Southern State (Student Assistant)

PLAYING EXPERIENCE

1999-01: Missouri Southern State (Tight End)

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�㽶�� will honor 10 exceptional alumni and friends of the college during the��2025 Alumni Awards Ceremony at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, in Edmunds Hall as part of Homecoming festivities in Clinton.

Each year, the Alumni Association recognizes graduates and supporters who exemplify �㽶��’s values of leadership, service, and excellence. The 2025 recipients represent a broad spectrum of achievement—ranging from scientific discovery and educational leadership to community service, faith-based work, and athletics.

“Each of this year’s honorees reflects the spirit of While We Live, We Serve in remarkable ways,” said �㽶�� president Dr. Anita Gustafson. “Their impact on their professions and communities is a testament to the character and purpose that define a �㽶�� education.”

Gold P Award: Matt Navarro ’99

The Alumni Gold P Award recognizes alumni whose professional accomplishments bring distinction to �㽶��.

Matt Navarro ’99 is the global president and chief executive officer of PMI Worldwide Brands, leading the renowned Stanley 1913 line of drinkware. Under his leadership, Stanley has achieved record-breaking growth and global prominence. Navarro, a veteran executive and team builder, previously held senior leadership roles at Amer Sports and continues to mentor emerging leaders in his Park City, Utah, community.

Outstanding Young Alumni: Isaiah Lynn ’15 and Dr. Jada Suber ’15

The Outstanding Young Alumnus/Alumna Award recognizes graduates age 38 or younger who demonstrate early success and strong potential for continued achievement.

Isaiah Lynn ’15, a former Blue Hose football player, co-founded Teammates, a firm that invests in communities connected to professional athletes through real estate and development. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Lynn continues to merge his passions for sports and business while mentoring others.

Dr. Jada Suber ’15, a Laurens County native, began her research career at �㽶�� before earning her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Now a postdoctoral fellow at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Suber’s work explores immune mechanisms related to allergy and disease.

Dum Vivimus Servimus Award: Jessica Jetton ’99

The Dum Vivimus Servimus Award honors alumni who live out �㽶��’s motto, While We Live, We Serve.

Jessica Jetton ’99, director of donor engagement for Help the Persecuted, has devoted nearly three decades to service in education, ministry, and nonprofit leadership. Her journey began with 15 years in public education, followed by 12 years in global ministry work—most notably supporting AIDS relief in East Africa.

Jetton also served nearly a decade on the �㽶�� Alumni Board, including five years in leadership. A Colson Fellow and Atlanta ministry leader, she continues to connect people and causes through her deep commitment to faith and service.

Thomas Aurelius Stallworth ’55 Award: The Rev. Robert Brozina ’83

This award honors alumni who exemplify the faith, integrity, and courage of beloved �㽶�� professor Tom Stallworth ’55.

The Rev. Robert Brozina ’83, pastor of Rocky Springs Presbyterian Church, is known for his humor, humility, and unwavering dedication to justice and service. A former chaplain for the Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina, Brozina’s leadership reflects Stallworth’s legacy of faith and friendship.

Mary F. Lehman Service Award: Dr. Kathryn Owen Hix ’00

Named for longtime Alumni Relations assistant Mary F. Lehman, this award honors outstanding service to �㽶�� and the Alumni Association.

Dr. Kathryn Owen Hix ’00 has spent more than 15 years in higher education, earning recognition as a scholar, mentor, and community leader. A former English professor and recipient of the Cowan Award for Excellence in Teaching, Hix now serves in faculty development at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine–Greenville.

A past president of the �㽶�� Alumni Association, she also serves on several civic and church boards, including the South Carolina Children’s Theatre, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, and Christ Church Episcopal in Greenville.

Mike Turner Award: Steve ’73 and Libby Crowe

Named for longtime Scotsman Club leader Mike Turner ’48, this award recognizes exceptional dedication to �㽶�� Athletics and the Scotsman Club’s mission.

Steve ’73 and Libby Crowe have been faithful advocates for �㽶�� for decades. Steve spent 41 years with the Swagelok Company, rising to president of its international capital sales division, and now serves as Dealer Principal of Foothills Motorsports in Piedmont, South Carolina. Libby, a retired educator, has been the heart of their family and community involvement.

Together, the Crowes exemplify loyalty, leadership, and love for their alma mater and the broader �㽶�� community.

Bob Waters Award: David Phenix ’85

Established by �㽶�� and the Scotsman Club, the Bob Waters Award honors alumni who demonstrate leadership and integrity in athletic coaching.

David Phenix ’85, a former Blue Hose offensive tackle under Coach Cally Gault, was recently inducted into the Lakeside High School Sports Hall of Fame in Atlanta. After a successful career in business, Phenix dedicated 25 years to education and coaching in Georgia, guiding multiple teams to state championships.

He and his wife, Leesa, live in Loganville, Ga., where they enjoy time with their three children and two grandchildren.

Honorary Alumna Award: Susan Tallman

The Honorary Alumna Award recognizes non-graduates who have made a significant impact on �㽶��.

Susan Tallman, a Clinton resident for nearly 30 years, has contributed her creativity, generosity, and vision to her community and to �㽶��. A real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and co-founder of M. Judson Booksellers in Greenville, she is a two-time breast cancer survivor and a tireless volunteer on local health, church, and civic boards.

Tallman’s connection to �㽶�� runs deep—her daughter, Brooke Tallman ’21, is a proud alumna—and her service embodies the college’s mission of compassion and integrity.

A Celebration of Legacy and Leadership

From classrooms and laboratories to boardrooms, pulpits, and playing fields, the 2025 award recipients exemplify �㽶��’s enduring mission to serve others through purpose-driven leadership.

“These honorees remind us that the �㽶�� experience lasts far beyond the four years on campus,” said Gustafson. “Their achievements continue to inspire our students and strengthen our community.”

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Throughout October and November, �㽶��’s Harper Gallery will become home to Limnologies, a large-scale installation created by artists Claudia O’Steen and Aly Ogasian. 

Limnologies is the culmination of two summers’ worth of off-grid field work on an island in Lake Superior. Having combined the artists’ research and experiments in the studio, the installation is centered around the interaction between water, weather, and geology. 

The title of the installation refers to O’Steen and Ogasian’s extensive efforts to understand the weather patterns occurring on Lake Superior, while simultaneously examining the effect of weather conditions and the changing climate on the psychology of humans.��

Their work relies on observations collected through a series of portable sculptures that measure wind, waves, visibility, water level, and temperature, exploring the possibilities and limitations of human understanding of the world. O’Steen and Ogasian also observed the sky, documenting both the color and the clouds. 

The project is an ode to Lake Superior as a “site of memory,” exploring how weather patterns have manifested over time, and the dynamic nature of geology as it shapes and is shaped by the changing climate. 

The exhibition will be open to the public through Nov. 22, with gallery hours held from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, with the exception of holidays.

A reception for the exhibit will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, during which O’Steen and Ogasian will speak about their artwork via Zoom at 5:30 p.m.

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