Orangeburg, SC – South Carolina State University (SCSU) has received a formal apology from Christ Church Episcopal School (CCES) following a comment made by a public address announcer that many considered “disrespectful.” The incident occurred during a Friday night football game, just one day before the Bulldogs took the field against the University of South Carolina.
The Incident
The controversy began when the CCES announcer made a remark directed at SCSU that quickly drew backlash. While the school did not disclose the exact words, officials acknowledged the language was inappropriate and out of line with their mission. The timing was particularly striking, as it came on the eve of one of South Carolina State’s most visible games of the season.
SCSU, the only public Historically Black College and University in the state, carries a legacy that spans nearly 130 years. For many alumni and supporters, the announcer’s words weren’t just a slip of the tongue — they struck at the dignity of an institution that has served as a cornerstone for education and opportunity.
CCES Responds Swiftly
Christ Church Episcopal School acted quickly once the comment came to light. According to their leadership, the announcer offered an immediate apology following the game. However, CCES made the decision to remove him from future events altogether, underscoring the seriousness of the matter.
In an official statement, the school expressed regret and directly apologized to South Carolina State University, its alumni, and the broader community. CCES emphasized that the comment was inconsistent with its values and that steps were being taken to ensure incidents like this do not happen again.
SCSU’s Dignified Response
South Carolina State University President Alexander Conyers personally addressed the situation by speaking with CCES Head of School David Padilla. President Conyers accepted the apology but also used the moment to reaffirm SCSU’s commitment to excellence and dignity.
“South Carolina State has stood for nearly 130 years as a beacon of opportunity,” Conyers said. “Our alumni, students, faculty, and supporters deserve respect at all times, whether on or off the field.”
His response highlighted the resilience and professionalism that HBCUs often display when confronted with challenges, while also reminding the public of the respect these institutions have earned over generations.
Bigger Than Sports
While the Bulldogs went on to face the University of South Carolina that weekend — ultimately falling 38–10 — the narrative extended beyond the field. The situation reinforced the importance of respect for HBCUs, not just in athletics but in broader cultural conversations.
South Carolina State’s role in producing leaders across education, business, politics, and beyond makes it a vital institution within the HBCU community and the state of South Carolina. The incident served as a reminder of how words carry weight, especially when directed at schools that have historically fought for visibility and equity.
Moving Forward
For many SCSU alumni and students, the apology offered by CCES was an important step toward accountability. But the moment also underscored the ongoing need to elevate HBCUs and their legacies.
As conversations around diversity and inclusion continue, situations like this highlight why HBCUs matter — not only as educational institutions but as cultural anchors that demand and deserve respect.
