Voorhees University is thrilled to announce the establishment of the Voorhees University Charter Institute of Learning (VU-CIL), a pioneering charter school authorizer dedicated to supporting independent charter schools across South Carolina. Serving as an advisory hub, VU-CIL will work alongside local charter schools and exploratory committees to offer essential resources, guidance, and support to educational leaders throughout the state. This new institute is set to expand educational opportunities and promote student success in every South Carolina community.
Currently, there are 89 charter schools across South Carolina serving nearly 50,000 students. The establishment of VU-CIL represents a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to educational innovation, marking a substantial investment in the future of South Carolina’s educational landscape. VU-CIL’s development was made possible by a generous $50,000 donation from the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), presented by UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael Lomax. This support will help VU-CIL empower charter schools to achieve both academic and operational excellence.
Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President of Voorhees University, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, “The Charter Institute of Learning is more than just a hub for charter schools; it’s a dynamic extension of Voorhees University’s commitment to accessible, high-quality education. By partnering with local charter schools, we aim to cultivate academic excellence and provide tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of South Carolina’s communities. We are deeply grateful for UNCF’s generous support, which will allow us to make a lasting impact on educational opportunities statewide.”
The VU-CIL Board of Directors includes a dedicated team of leaders committed to advancing charter school success:
Dr. Ronnie Hopkins – Chairman of the Board of Directors
Dr. Angela Peters – Member, Chief Academic Officer
Mrs. V. Diane O’Berry – Member, Chief Finance Officer
Mr. Leticia Dowling – Public Member
Dr. Gwenda Richburg-Greene – Public Member
Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell – Public Member
Dr. Thelma Sojourner – Public Member
Mr. Dwayne Smiling – Public Member
Voorhees University has a rich legacy of transformation, providing students with personalized learning and developmental opportunities. As the university steps into a new role as a charter school authorizer, this initiative promises to make a profound difference in the lives of students, families, and communities throughout South Carolina.
For more information, please visit our website at https://voorheescharters.org/ or contact Voorhees Academic Affairs at sssmith@voorhees.edu or 803-780-1021.
