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President Palms' memo to the Board of Trustees concerning his possible bid for the U.S. Senate in 2002

Although I had hoped to reach you by telephone before various media reports might occur, please understand the necessity of my conveying the following information to you in writing and accept my apologies for doing so.

Over the past several weeks, I have been approached by friends and associates who have encouraged me to run for the United States Senate in November 2002. While extremely flattered by their comments, I have also been moved by their reasons and have given this matter considerable thought.

I believe this seat promises to be more important than ever before to the educational and economic future of South Carolina; therefore, a United States Senator with hands-on experience improving the quality of public education could make a tremendous positive difference. In contemplating this opportunity, I also find that it would enable me to continue serving South Carolina, but in a different and critically needed capacity.

For these reasons, I am inclined to run for the United States Senate. Norma and I have discussed this with our family, and they are very supportive. If I ultimately decide to enter the race, a decision I expect to reach before May 1, I intend to begin my campaign in January 2002. Until that time, my first priority remains leading the University through its historic bicentennial year.

While education has certainly been the center of my professional life, additional aspects of my career have prepared me for this opportunity. As a physicist, I have played a role in America's nuclear defense policy, and I have regularly participated in our nation's dialogue on nuclear defense policy matters. In working with the USC School of Medicine and the Norman J. Arnold School of Public Health, I have seen the importance of finding realistic solutions to the prescription-drug and health care insurance problems South Carolinians face.

What I most value from 10 years as USC president is what I have learned from working each day with USC's remarkable and diverse board, faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Your and their hopes, concerns, and ideas for our state and our future have challenged and inspired me. Your confidence and insights are important to my decision-making process, and I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you.

Sincerely,

John M. Palms