(Denmark, SC Voorhees College) - The Bamberg County Council honored Voorhees College, celebrating its Quasquicentennial (125th)Anniversary in April, by proclaiming the third Tuesday in February of each year as "Voorhees University Day" in the county and designating the college as an official ambassador for the county. These designations were announced recently in a proclamation from the council during a Voorhees executive cabinet meeting and luncheon in the Wright Potts Library. 

Flanked by other members of the Bamberg County Council, Chairman Spencer Donaldson said, “I am grateful for this excellent and fundamental educational institution, which promotes economic growth in the heart of Bamberg County.  I am pleased to offer congratulations to Voorhees College on your 125th anniversary, which provides a supportive environment to so many in the community, and a pipeline for success.”

In addition to celebrating its 125th anniversary, the college will officially change its name from Voorhees College to Voorhees University during its Founder’s Day observance April 7. The institution was founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright. 

"We are beyond proud to call Voorhees College, which has been a mainstay in this community for 125 years, home to alumni, change agents, and a legacy that has changed the world,” said Evert Comer Jr., Bamberg County councilman. "Voorhees College is a valuable economic engine in its community, generating substantial economic returns year after year and investing in our local communities. We’re honored to designate you as an official county ambassador."

Joey Preston, county administrator noted that Voorhees College "has opened the door of opportunity for legions of students seeking higher education when denied by society, since 1897. We’re so grateful to have such an incredible institution here in Bamberg County, creating ready and successful students for generations and making education affordable, accessible, and personal. Congratulations to Dr. Hopkins and to all of the dynamic faculty, staff, students, and trustees at Voorhees on transitioning to a university."

Ronnie Hopkins, president of Voorhees College, said he was grateful for the recognition.

"We are indeed honored that our friends at the Bamberg Council would bestow this honor upon us at this juncture in our history.  Not only is Voorhees celebrating a milestone anniversary, and a historic name change, I assure you we are embarking upon a new era in advancing to the next level of excellence in our educational, economic, social, and cultural realms in and around Bamberg County," Hopkins said.

In addition to the celebration of Founder’s Day, Hopkins will be installed as the 10th president of Voorhees University on April 8.