Denmark Technical College celebrated the formal inauguration of Dr. Willie L. Todd Jr., the college’s ninth president, with a weekend full of events designed to showcase the college’s progress.
The weekend kicked off with the official investiture service. Although Todd has served as president since January of 2020, the ceremony was delayed due to COVID-19. The ceremony featured well wishes from the local community, HBCU leaders, Todd’s family and political figures including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and United States Congressman James Clyburn, as well as musical tributes and the presentation of the symbols of the office.
The cornerstone of the ceremony was Todd’s inaugural address in which he outlined the triumphs of the last year, challenges the college has faced and plans for the future. Todd made a point to recognize those who stood behind the college and fought to keep its doors open.
“As some threatened to close the college due to financial woes and declining enrollment, there are also many seated here today that refused to let that happen. They knew the importance of saving South Carolina’s only black technical college and the vital role it plays in the community. We’re grateful for all of those who advocated on our behalf,” he said.
Todd also discussed the five priorities featured in the college’s newly adopted five-year strategic plan: increasing enrollment, persistence and retention, enhancing academics and inspiring technological advancements, renewing commitment to community and social justice, rebranding and strengthening communications infrastructure and establishing a sustainable model for a financial future.
Todd closed out his speech by pledging to keep Denmark Tech forging onward.
“With mission at the foreground I, with the support of our team, will provide courageous and transformative leadership to move the college forward, ensuring academic and professional success to all whom the college serves,” said Todd.
Friday evening, the college celebrated with the annual Legacy Scholarship Gala, which raised funds for both need based and academic scholarships. The event featured dining, dancing and the music of the Legacy Band.
“The gala was just a stellar event. It was so nice to be able to socialize with my co-workers and raise funds for such a worthy cause,” said Dr. Sid Emory, director of information technology.
The weekend continued Saturday morning with the 72nd annual commencement convocation. This year, Denmark graduated 84 students from four academic divisions.
“We are just unbelievably proud of these graduates. They have persevered through unprecedented challenges to achieve their goals. If they can succeed in college during a pandemic, they can truly do anything and we cannot wait to see where the future takes them,” said Todd.
The commencement speaker was world renowned actress and philanthropist, JoMarie Payton, of Family Matters and The Proud Family fame. Payton provided a wealth or encouragement and advice to the graduates.
“We all have a position. We are links in a chain and we’re stronger when we stand together,” she said.
The weekend closed out with the Madhatters Sunday Service and Scholarship Luncheon featuring the music of Dove and Grammy Award winning artist, Rudy Currence. The scholarship luncheon and gala, together, raised over $65,000 to support the education of Denmark Tech students.
Dr. A. Clifton Myles, executive vice president for administration and innovation, who led the investiture committee, was thrilled with the outcomes for the weekend.
“The weekend was a great success for the college. We were able raise a lot of money for scholarships, we established some wonderful HBCU traditions and we installed an amazing leader who will continue to blaze trails for Denmark Tech. In my book, I call that a success,” said Myles.
