The last few months have been difficult. Our students, faculty, and staff have been scattered and isolated, and now our nation has once again been shocked by the killing of yet another Black person—George Floyd. As we see news reports of this senseless killing and see our own cities and towns erupt in anger in response, we’re reminded that many in our community feel fear every day because of the injustices they have endured.

We must work to replace that fear with hope. Anything other than action is not enough. Our family is remarkable and more than capable of working to create an America that is for each and every one of us. Students – you are our brightest and greatest hope. If we wish to banish racism and hatred, we must have hard conversations. We must do the work. We must put effort and action behind our thoughts and prayers.

We have begun discussions about what we will do as an Honors College to nurture and comfort our students, and each other, as well as concrete ways to stand with and support our Black students, faculty, and staff. Our staff is also working with the Black Honors Caucus and other Black-led organizations to determine how we can support them and their efforts across campus. We encourage each of you to use your voice, and reach out to us with ideas and opinions on how we can be and do better. And as always, if any of you need assistance or support during this time, we are here. Please reach out.

We are grateful to be part of a community and university that collectively strives to make this world a better place. That fact has never been more important than it is today. Please take care, take heart, and let’s get to work.

Steven Lynn 
Dean, South Carolina Honors College

Kay Banks 
Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and Diversity, South Carolina Honors College

Resources: 

Dr. Kay Banks, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs

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