Carolina alumni meet with state lawmakers

Nearly 300 advocates for the University of South Carolina met with more than 45 state legislators Wednesday (March 26) for the Carolina Alumni Association’s Fifth Annual Carolina Day at the Statehouse.

As part of the Carolina Action Network, which is the Alumni Association’s legislative advocacy program, the event is held each year to let Carolina alumni and supporters meet one-on-one with state lawmakers to enlist their support for the university and inform them why a strong University of South Carolina benefits the entire state.

“I cannot be more proud than to see so many in garnet and black speak with our legislators about issues facing our university,” Carolina Alumni Association Executive Director Marsha Cole told the group Wednesday morning. “Legislative advocacy is something we want to have on your minds all year.”

The Carolina Action Network works to keep its advocates educated throughout the year on issues, particularly legislative issues, affecting the University of South Carolina. They communicate with their elected officials through e-mails, letters, phone calls and personal visits.

“Talking to the legislators is the first half of the process,” Cole added. “The second half is giving that information back to university officials and letting them know what our elected officials are saying.”

University of South Carolina President Andrew Sorensen expressed his gratitude to the group.

“Thank you for bringing the message of needs for the university to the legislative assembly of the state of South Carolina,” Sorensen said. “The effect you can have can truly be profound.”

House Speaker Bobby Harrell of Charleston County and Rep. Todd Rutherford of Richland County, both of whom are Carolina alumni, also thanked the group.

“I absolutely love this institution,” Harrell said. “This institution is critical in the effort to make the state’s economy grow.”

Anyone with an interest in the University of South Carolina can become an advocate, and no fees are required. For more information about the Carolina Alumni Association’s legislative advocacy program, please visit www.MyCarolina.org/advocacy.