Partnering with SC Humanities means sharing our commitment...
Partners share our commitment to offering high-quality, inspiring, engaging, and enriching programming in the humanities for the benefit of South Carolina citizens. Partners will be those organizations who are committed to public humanities and express their support of SCH through regular annual contributions.
Click to learn more about each Partner Institution:
The Citadel
The Citadel’s mission is to produce principled leaders from all walks of life, and the study of the humanities is central to that mission. Whether our cadets and students pursue leadership in the military, industry, government, or elsewhere, the humanities allow these future leaders to engage with people from various cultures, think critically and creatively about the world around them, solve the challenging problems facing society, and act nobly on behalf of something bigger than the individual. At The Citadel, the humanities are at the core of our general education program, which requires students to take courses in writing, literature, language, and history. The School offers major fields across the humanities and social science disciplines, including our Intelligence and Security Studies major, currently the largest major in the School, which integrates history, criminal justice, political science, and languages and requires core humanities skills in critical thinking, written and oral communication, problem-solving, and ethical leadership. The humanities offer a robust appreciation for and understanding of the richness and diversity of the human experience, a perspective critical in modern leadership. Becoming a leader that others wish to follow requires a transformation and maturation of mind and spirit, which is made possible through deep dives into those vital aspects of the human experience — the written and spoken word, beauty, interpretation, and compassion. We are serious about the humanities at The Citadel because future leaders must think critically, draw logical conclusions, express their thoughts clearly, and welcome and learn from conversations with people whose perspectives and experiences differ.
College of Arts and Humanities
at Clemson University
Emerging from the College of Architecture, Arts and Humanities in 2023, the new College of Arts and Humanities (CAH) is proud to carry forward Clemson University’s tradition as a “high seminary of learning.” CAH is the home of 16 degree programs across six departments: English, History and Geography, Interdisciplinary Studies, Languages, Performing Arts, and Philosophy and Religion. The College proudly occupies the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts as well as Clemson’s oldest academic building, Hardin Hall, and one of its newest—the nearly 60,000-square-foot Daniel Hall Extension, which was completed in 2022. We recruit research faculty from the finest universities who are at the forefront of their fields, producing internationally recognized work. At the same time, our faculty are passionately dedicated to teaching: they inspire curiosity, foster the spirit of inquiry, and open our students to unfamiliar worlds and unimagined ideas.
The College is centered on exploring and understanding the human condition. It encourages students to engage with culture, history, creativity, and the ultimate questions of existence. Students learn the skills to make a living, while also being challenged to think about how to make a life. Through expert pedagogy in supportive environments, students are trained to think deeply, write effectively, and interact respectfully with others. The College of Arts and Humanities is where Clemson students prepare to meet the world. Together with SC Humanities and our partners in education throughout South Carolina, we are committed to advancing the cause of humanities education in our state.
Edwards College of Humanities and Fine Arts
at Coastal Carolina University
The Thomas W. and Robin W. Edwards College of Humanities and Fine Arts equips students with the knowledge, experiences, and perspective required to be successful, productive global citizens. Edwards College courses and opportunities emphasize creative expression, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches to future readiness. With more than 55 undergraduate programs, minors, and certificates as well as four graduate programs across 10 departments, the Edwards College offers emerging scholars and artists intellectual and creative rigor. Edwards College academic programs intersect with its 12 award-winning centers and initiatives, which offer experiential and research-based opportunities. These centers deliver high-impact practices, allow students to engage in innovative multi-disciplinary projects, and yield outcomes such as books, performances, presentations, and participation in professional conferences. Edwards College students are curious, investigative learners who become accomplished alumni; they lead organizations, win awards, and break new ground in their fields. Film, music, digital culture, dance, philosophy, interactive journalism – it’s all waiting for students in the Edwards College.
Francis Marion University
Humanities and the liberal arts provide the foundation every Francis Marion University student needs to grow and develop as an individual. The College of Liberal Arts offers undergraduate and graduate programs that promote intellectual growth, encourage innovation, and develop responsible citizens. Francis Marion University’s emphasis on liberal arts education allows students to move beyond how to understand why as it creates leaders.
The university’s public-forward research, lectures, events, and cultural arts programming lets community members learn about social issues, attend thought-provoking exhibitions, and inspiring concerts and theatrical performances.
Lander University
At Lander University, the humanities are a cornerstone of our commitment to shaping well-rounded graduates who are prepared for the evolving demands of the workforce. Our high-demand, market-driven programs in business, education, nursing and STEM provide students with essential technical and professional skills, while the humanities offer critical tools for lifelong success – fostering creativity, empathy, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of the human experience. Lander University’s humanities courses help students develop the ability to think critically across disciplines, communicate effectively, and engage ethically with the world around them. This integration of career-focused education with a strong liberal arts foundation ensures Lander graduates are not only job-ready, but also equipped to lead and make meaningful contributions in an increasingly complex and interconnected society.
South Carolina Arts Commission
The mission of the South Carolina Arts Commission (SCAC) is to promote equitable access to the arts and support the cultivation of creativity in South Carolina. We envision a South Carolina where the arts are valued and all people benefit from a variety of creative experiences.
A state agency created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the SCAC works to increase public participation in the arts by providing grants, direct programs, staff assistance and partnerships in artist development, arts industry, arts learning, creative placemaking, and folklife and traditional arts. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the SCAC is funded by the state of South Carolina, by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts, and other sources. Visit SouthCarolinaArts.com or call 803.734.8696, and follow @scartscomm on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for #Arts4SC and #SCartists content.
The McCausland College of Arts and Sciences at University of South Carolina
The McCausland College of Arts and Sciences is the academic heart of the University of South Carolina. A dynamic community of more than 10,000 students across 38 undergraduate and 36 graduate programs, the college prepares students for opportunities in a wide variety of careers. The college’s courses in the arts, humanities, social sciences, mathematics and natural sciences support all USC students in developing the foundational skills necessary to succeed and flourish in their personal and professional lives.
The McCausland College of Arts and Sciences drives innovation and impact in South Carolina and beyond. Award-winning faculty, dedicated staff and outstanding students work together across disciplines in the College to understand the past and present, address today’s challenges and create possibilities for a better world.
University of South Carolina Union
Since opening its doors in 1965, USC Union has evolved from a small campus with one building and 51 freshmen into a growing academic institution serving over 1,300 students as of fall 2024. Over the decades, the university has built a reputation for delivering high-quality education while expanding its reach through innovative programs and strong partnerships. The development of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, collaborations with surrounding high schools for dual enrollment, and new academic pathways have contributed significantly to the university’s growth. These offerings allow students to pursue their educational goals while remaining close to home.
In addition to academics, USC Union has developed a thriving athletics program. The campus fields several teams competing at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) level, including women’s softball, men’s baseball, women’s volleyball, men’s soccer, and men’s golf. The university also supports clubs and teams such as the bass anglers, women’s soccer, rifle team, and e-game sports. These opportunities contribute to student life by fostering teamwork, leadership, and a strong sense of community, making USC Union an engaging place to study and grow.
USC Union has also gained recognition for its dedication to preserving local history. In 2024, the university received a Historic Preservation Stewardship Award at the 29th Annual South Carolina Historic Preservation Awards. This honor highlights USC Union’s long-term care of its historic buildings, including the Whitener Central Building on East Academy Street, the Main Building on Main Street, and the Bell Street School on Peachtree Street, which now serves as the USC Union Laurens Location. These preservation efforts demonstrate the university’s commitment not just to education, but to honoring the heritage of its campus and community.
Furthering this commitment, USC Union has partnered with Preservation South Carolina to restore the Dawkins House—one of the most historically significant buildings in downtown Union. Portions of the house date back to the 1790s, and it served briefly as the state capital during the final days of the Civil War. South Carolina Governor Andrew Magrath operated out of the home after fleeing Columbia and was present there when he learned of the war’s end in April 1865. Once restored, the Dawkins House will become the new USC Union Alumni Center and a community event space, strengthening the university’s connection to the region’s past and future.
Looking ahead, USC Union has unveiled a forward-thinking 10-year Campus Master Plan designed to transform the campus and elevate the student experience. The plan includes construction of a large multi-purpose facility to enhance student life and expand athletics, potentially adding basketball to the lineup. It also outlines expanded academic offerings, dining services, wellness facilities, additional classrooms, and faculty offices. This vision is aimed at turning Union into a true college town—creating a vibrant, inclusive environment for students and the wider community. Through these strategic initiatives, USC Union is positioning itself for continued growth, greater impact, and a strong future in higher education.
Wofford College
Wofford College, established in 1854, is a four-year, residential liberal arts college located in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The college is nationally known for its outstanding faculty, study abroad participation, successful and supportive graduates and commitment to making college affordable and accessible; 99% of students receive some form of financial assistance. The college’s 180-acre campus, located within walking distance of Spartanburg’s thriving downtown, is home to about 1,800 undergraduates. In addition to a rigorous academic program and experiential learning opportunities, Wofford students enjoy Division I athletics, fraternity and sorority life and an innovative visual and performing arts scene.
The type of education that Wofford offers — one steeped in the humanities — prepares students for a life of leadership, service, innovation and citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world. Wofford graduates are invaluable because they understand tradition but think beyond its confines. They pull from a variety of perspectives and make connections between them because they see the big picture without ignoring the details. They do this because every Wofford student, regardless of their major or future career interests, takes classes in the humanities as part of the liberal arts educational experience.
Every Wofford graduate must succeed in the study of cultures and peoples, English, fine arts, foreign languages, history, humanities, mathematics, natural science, philosophy, religion and wellness. English majors are not exempt from mathematics and science requirements, just as chemistry majors must spend time learning about subjects such as literature, philosophy and religious studies.
Beyond the classroom Wofford encourages every student to study abroad, intern, conduct research, practice leadership skills and engage in the community. The college pairs these opportunities for global exposure and experiential learning with the faculty and staff, technology, facilities and programmatic support necessary for the long-term success of graduates. Liberal arts graduates of any major are ideally equipped to solve society’s most pressing issues surrounding sustainable energy, the environment, healthcare, poverty, crime, international trade, technological advancements and challenges still to come.
Nothing is more important, more inspiring and more humbling than the charge we have at Wofford College to support students as they build futures that include a commitment to lifelong learning and a responsibility to use their liberal arts education and innate talents to make the world a better place. Our focus on the humanities ensures this.
Questions?
For more information on ways to support SC Humanities, please contact La Ruchala Murphy, Development Director, or call the office at 803-771-2477.
SC Humanities is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
