The Goal: 1.3 Million to expand scholarship access and strengthen academic programs across the University.
South Carolina State University will celebrate 130 years of Bulldog Tenacity at the 130th Anniversary Garnet & Blue Extravaganza on Saturday, April 18, 2026, on historic Willie Jeffries Field at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
The elegant affair will begin with a Pre-Gala VIP Reception and Red Carpet Experience at 6 p.m., followed by an evening of dinner, awards, and live entertainment under the stars. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit student scholarships, and all gifts will count toward The Power of SC State: A Capital Campaign to Elevate Excellence.
The Garnet & Blue Extravaganza will bring together alumni, donors, corporate partners, and community leaders to celebrate South Carolina State University’s proud 130-year legacy of excellence, leadership, and impact.
“This historic milestone offers us a moment to reflect on the power of Bulldog Tenacity and the incredible journey from 1896 to 2026,” said President Alexander Conyers. “Our goal is to invest in the next generation of scholars and leaders who will continue to elevate excellence at SC State.”
Over the years, SC State supporters have raised millions of dollars through fundraising galas and campaigns to provide need- and merit-based scholarships for deserving students—many of whom are first-generation college students. The 130th Anniversary Garnet & Blue Gala aims to raise $1.3 million to expand scholarship access and strengthen academic programs across the University.
Guests will enjoy a night to remember, featuring a Red Carpet arrival, VIP cocktail reception, student performances, and the Bulldog Legacy Awards, which honor distinguished alumni, philanthropic partners, and community champions who embody SC State’s enduring spirit.
Event Leadership
Hosts President Alexander & First Lady Agatha Conyers
Gala Co-Chairs Henry “Hank” & Iva Allen • Jameel Allen • Hope Doe
Executive Leadership Dr. John Michael Lee, Jr., CFRE Vice President for University Advancement
Dr. Gerald Smalls Vice President for Finance & Administration
Ms. Shondra Abraham Chief of Staff
Bulldog Donors
View All Donors
| Divine 9 Challenge | Donors | Raised ($) | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sigma Gamma Rho | 4 | $1,619 | 1.9% |
| Iota Phi Theta | 1 | $19 | 0.5% |
| Phi Beta Sigma | 1 | $119 | 0.5% |
| Alpha Kappa Alpha | 48 | $4,397 | 22.9% |
| Zeta Phi Beta | 7 | $1,438 | 3.3% |
| Delta Sigma Theta | 207 | $15,995 | 98.6% |
| Alpha Phi Alpha | 12 | $1,401 | 5.7% |
| Kappa Alpha Psi | 20 | $3,808 | 9.5% |
| Omega Psi Phi | 28 | $35,912 | 13.3% |
