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Voorhees University Welcomes State Senator Tameika Isaac Devine as Keynote Speaker for 128th Opening Convocation

Voorhees University is excited to announce that South Carolina State Senator Tameika Isaac Devine will serve as the keynote speaker for the university’s 128th Opening Convocation. The event will take place on Thursday, September 5th, at 10:00 a.m. in the Leonard Dawson Health and Human Resources Center, as the university community gathers to mark the official beginning of the 2024 academic year.

Senator Devine, a distinguished leader, attorney, and community advocate, brings decades of public service and legal expertise to her role. A founding partner of Jabber & Isaac, PA, she has practiced law in probate, real estate, and personal injury for over 20 years. Her career has been deeply rooted in making a difference, beginning with her groundbreaking election in 2002 as the first African American woman to serve on Columbia’s City Council.

In January 2024, Senator Devine was elected to represent South Carolina Senate District 19, making history as the sixth woman and first female representative for the district. She continues to champion critical causes such as gun violence prevention and addressing health disparities.

In addition to her legal practice, Senator Devine is the founder and CEO of The Possibilities Institute, LLC, a firm dedicated to empowering women leaders and working mothers. Her leadership and commitment to public service have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the 50 Most Influential People in the Midlands by Columbia Business Monthly.

Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President of Voorhees University, expressed his enthusiasm for Senator Devine’s participation, stating, “We are deeply honored to have Senator Tameika Isaac Devine as our Opening Convocation keynote speaker. Her trailblazing career and dedication to community service are truly inspiring, and I am confident that her message will resonate with our students, faculty, and staff as we embark on another academic year filled with promise and opportunity.”

A proud graduate of Hampton University and the University of South Carolina School of Law, Senator Devine’s career and accomplishments reflect a lifelong commitment to community improvement and leadership. 

Voorhees University warmly invites the entire community to join in this significant event to be inspired by Senator Devine’s vision and insights.

Convocation Live Stream Video Link

About Voorhees University:  Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Driven by a mission to cultivate well-rounded graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. Voorhees University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. More details are available at the Voorhees website (www.voorhees.edu). Questions about the accreditation of Voorhees University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org)

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