Denmark Technical College and Voorhees University came together last week for the fourth annual Operation Olive Branch ceremony, officially welcoming new students to the 2025-2026 academic year. The two neighboring institutions continued their tradition of unity and collaboration, with students participating in a day designed to connect, inspire and empower.
Operation Olive Branch, launched in 2022, is a collaborative effort to enhance the college experience for incoming students by fostering integrity, respect and a sense of family between the two campuses. The day began with a symbolic procession from Denmark Technical College to Voorhees University, followed by a formal program and breakout sessions addressing topics relevant to student success, leadership and personal growth.
“Operation Olive Branch is an important reminder to our students that they are not alone on this journey,” said Tia Wright-Richards, interim president of Denmark Technical College. “It’s about building a foundation of respect and support that extends beyond property lines. As HBCUs in rural South Carolina, we are uniquely positioned to model unity and collaboration for the next generation of leaders.”
Ronnie Hopkins, Ph.D., president and CEO of Voorhees University, added, “This partnership provides our students with a deeper, richer college experience. By combining resources, traditions and perspectives, we are creating an environment that challenges them to excel academically while developing socially and emotionally.”
During the ceremony, students took the unity oath, pledging their commitment to uphold the shared values of integrity, respect and inclusion. Sessions throughout the day encouraged open dialogue, personal reflection and peer-to-peer connection, ensuring students began the semester with a strong support network.
JL Porter, Ph.D., vice president of student affairs at Denmark Technical College, emphasized the program’s role in shaping student identity and resilience. “Our students often arrive with both excitement and uncertainty. Operation Olive Branch helps them see themselves as part of something bigger, a community that will challenge them, support them and celebrate them,” Porter said.
The event continued with a return procession to Denmark Tech for a cookout featuring food, games, music and activities designed to promote fellowship. The evening concluded with the Wild’N at the Den comedy show, featuring nationally recognized comedians.
Inspired by a similar program at the Atlanta University Center, Operation Olive Branch continues to serve as a model for collaboration, reinforcing the shared mission of Denmark Technical College and Voorhees University to prepare students for academic excellence, leadership and meaningful community engagement.