The South Carolina State University Foundation will celebrate 35 years of expanding scholarship opportunities at its Annual Scholarship Gala & Tribute featuring special guest Jeffrey Osborne on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Airport Hotel & Convention Center in North Charleston, South Carolina. The signature event, led by Honorary Co-Chairs Robert Porcher III, a former NFL standout and Rita Paisley, the Charleston Alumnae Chapter President, will bring together the community of alumni, corporate partners, and supporters for the evening’s festivities. Programming includes recognitions, music, and philanthropy in support of scholarships for South Carolina State University students.
A highlight of the gala will be the presentation of the Foundation’s North Star Award, honoring leaders whose professional achievements and service embody the values of excellence and opportunity that define South Carolina State University.
The 2026 North Star honorees include:
Jeanie Hunter is the CEO and Co-Founder of Synergy Development Partners, LLC. Under Hunter’s leadership, the Atlanta-based construction and development firm has delivered more than $600 million in projects, creating economic opportunity and expanding participation for minority-owned businesses.
Tara M. Lyons serves as Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, where she has led major federal prosecutions involving violent crime, civil rights violations, and child exploitation. She played a key role in the federal hate crimes trial in the Ahmaud Arbery case and is a recipient of the U.S. Department of Justice Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service.
The Gala will also recognize the Foundation’s 2026 Shining Star scholars, a group of outstanding students whose academic achievements and leadership demonstrate the life-changing impact of scholarship support.
The 2026 Shining Stars include:
- Sierra Curnell, Graduate & Professional Studies, Class of 2026
- Jaydah Felder, Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College, Class of 2027
- Iyana Hurley, S.T.E.M. & Transportation, Class of 2028
- Lucas Jones, Agriculture, Family & Consumer Sciences, Class of 2028
- Terryn Patterson-Bryan, Business & Information Systems, Class of 2026
- Justin Smith, Education, Humanities & Social Sciences, Class of 2026
“These scholarships represent more than financial support—they represent opportunity,” said SCSUF Board Chair Stephen Beatty. “Every year, the Gala brings our community together to invest in students who are determined to succeed. Because of the generosity of our supporters, talented young scholars can continue their education and pursue their goals without financial barriers.”
Over the years, the Scholarship Gala & Tribute has become a cherished tradition within the South Carolina State University community, an evening alumni and supporters anticipate each year as they come together to celebrate student achievement and invest in the university’s future.
Entertainment will be a highlight of the evening as legendary R&B artist Jeffrey Osborne takes the stage as the Gala’s special guest. Known for timeless hits such as “On the Wings of Love” and “You Should Be Mine,” Osborne’s performance will add a memorable musical element to the milestone celebration.
The celebration will continue with the official Gala After-Party, featuring internationally recognized DJ Shakim, who has toured and performed with artists such as Bell Biv DeVoe, New Edition, and Bow Wow. Known for energizing audiences at high-profile events around the world, DJ Shakim will close the evening with a high-energy celebration honoring the scholarships made possible through the night’s generosity. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and additional event details are available at: scstategives.org/gala-2026
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