South Carolina State University has finalized its keynote lineup for the Spring 2026 commencement ceremony, selecting two prominent figures from within the university community to address the graduating class. The announcement comes in the wake of a high-profile dispute involving Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, whose initial invitation to speak was rescinded by President Alexander Conyers.
The university’s decision to pivot follows intense student protests regarding the Lieutenant Governor’s political platform. Critics argued her stances were inconsistent with the mission of the historically Black university, leading the administration to withdraw the invitation citing safety concerns and a desire to maintain the focus on the graduates. The move sparked significant backlash from state legislators, some of whom have suggested cutting state funding to the institution in response.
Stepping in to lead the ceremony at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium are Yolanda Williams and Zaria Tucker, representing both the legacy and the future of the institution:
-
Yolanda Williams: The current SC State National Alumni Association President and a senior lead analytics consultant at Wells Fargo. A 1995 mathematics graduate and second-generation alumna, Williams brings a career background that includes work with the CIA and the FBI.
-
Zaria Tucker: The outgoing Student Government Association President and a senior psychology major. Tucker has spent four years in student advocacy, representing her peers on the Board of Trustees and within several national HBCU leadership organizations.
Approximately 380 students are expected to receive degrees during the 10 a.m. ceremony on Friday.
