Denmark, S.C. – Rev. Otis Moss, III, television actress JoMarie Payton and national recording artists Travis Porter and The Manhattans will highlight the celebration of the 126th Anniversary of the founding of Voorhees University April 13-15. Ranked by US News & World Report as second-best HBCU in South Carolina, and number 13 among the best private HBCUs nationally, Voorhees has planned a bevy of activities that highlight both its history and growth.
University president Ronnie Hopkins, faculty, staff and students are excited to welcome alumni and friends. They also extend a warm invite to the community of Denmark and surrounding areas to attend campus events as well. “Here at Voorhees University, we’re more than just a college or university; we are a family who strides to surpass the next level of excellence,” said Hopkins. “More important, we are a university whose family extends into the depth of the greater community of the town of Denmark, the county of Bamberg and beyond,” he added. This is demonstrated by the university’s hosting of a community-wide health and wellness fair on April 12th, which will include a blood drive and health fair, from 10:00 am. – 4:00 pm in the Leonard E. Dawson Center, the host site of the Founder’s Day events. More than ten healthcare experts will be available to conduct health screenings for campus and community individuals.
The convocation, honoring founder Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, will be held on Thursday, April 13th, at 10 a.m. Theologist, Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, III, Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois, will deliver the keynote address. With his unique gift of communication, Moss has inspired different generations through his gift of teaching. Recognized by Baylor University’s Truett School Theology as one of the twelve most effective preachers in the English-speaking world, Dr. Moss fights to bring awareness to the problems of mass incarnation, environmental justice, and economic inequality. He has traveled to college campuses, churches, and conferences across the globe to share messages that give hope and inspiration.
Following the convocation, members of the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Society of Women will hold a tea to continue to pay homage to the founder by showing a documentary portrayal of her struggle. “The first black woman to birth a historically black college and university, Miss Wright fought to build a legacy that we will continue to honor and nurture now and for years to come.,” Hopkins noted. This event will be held in Massachusetts Hall.
On Friday, April 14th, the Voorhees students will enjoy the opening of the campus eGaming Center before being entertained by the group Travis Porter in concert at 7:00 p.m.
The week will conclude with the annual Presidential Scholarship Gala at 6:000 p.m., Saturday, April 15th. Honoring 28 scholars who have achieved academic success during the year, this event will feature television actress JoMarie Payton as mistress of ceremony and will conclude with a concert performance by international recording artist, The Manhattans. Individuals may attend the gala and concert or just the concert only.
