USC Upstate celebrated one of its largest entering classes of new students during University Day on August 19. The annual event is an opportunity for the chancellor to provide a “state of the campus” address, reflecting on the successes of the previous academic year and looking ahead to the new one.
Chancellor Bennie Harris acknowledged at the start of his remarks that the higher education landscape is challenging right now, especially with the “enrollment cliff” looming next year. In 2025, the pool of high school graduates is expected to shrink and continue declining for another four years. Upstate, like many other universities, experienced enrollment losses after the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s enrollment shows a nearly 13% increase in freshman enrollment and a 7% increase in transfer students – indeed a major achievement, Harris said. “All the effort we’ve put in during these last years is crucial for our future growth and success,” he said.
Harris acknowledged the work of the entire university community to achieve the enrollment milestone, and thanked faculty, staff and his leadership team. Comparing their efforts to that of a Chinese bamboo tree, which develops a strong root system underground before putting out shoots and growing rapidly, Harris said, “It’s essential to be patient yet persistent, deliberate yet bold, and believe in what’s possible.”
Among those possibilities is a new track and field facility. Harris announced a fundraising campaign that’s expected to begin this month, with the goal of securing the needed resources by spring 2025. The state has also provided $5 million in seed money for a new nursing and health science building.
The day also recognized the outstanding contributions of faculty members who have achieved significant milestones in their careers. Faculty who earned promotions were honored, with accolades for their dedication to teaching, research, and service.
Those faculty members who were presented with the Upstate Medallion for being promoted to Full Professor were Dr. Darlene Amendolair, Professor of Nursing; Dr. Deshia Breaux, Professor of Health Informatics; Dr. Michele White Covington, Professor of Criminal Justice; Dr. Ona Egbue, Professor of Engineering Technology Management; Dr. Calvin Odhiambo, Professor of Sociology; and Dr. Nolan Stolz, Professor of Music.
At the conclusion of the event, Harris introduced the Spartan Vanguards. The student spirit group carried new shields that will be used by spectators at athletics events to show support and enthusiasm for the Spartans.
Immediately following, a portrait of Dr. Harris was unveiled that will be displayed alongside those of previous chancellors. “The unveiling of the portrait made me slightly emotional because we love Dr. Harris and all he has done for the university,” said Tracy Powell, administrative assistant for Academic Affairs. “Having his portrait displayed with previous Chancellors further establishes his commitment to our students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders.”