Columbia, S.C. - Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) announced that South Carolina was awarded $1,965,332 in funding for Voorhees University, one of South Carolina’s eight HBCUs. Administered through the United States Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program (RPED), this funding will help students in rural communities transition from high school to college and transfers from two-year to four-year institutions.

“Time and again, the Biden-Harris Administration has shown tremendous dedication to our nation’s HBCUs, and more specifically, institutions of higher learning in South Carolina. Thanks to this latest investment, students at Voorhees University will have the tools they need to succeed,” said Congressman Clyburn. “I am pleased to see Voorhees University receive this invaluable support as they shape the next generation of leaders.”

"This grant will serve as the catalyst that drives the socio-economic vehicle destined to elevate the quality of life for citizens in and around the Denmark, South Carolina area,” said Voorhees University president, Ronnie Hopkins. “I express profound gratitude to Congressman Clyburn and President Biden for entrusting Voorhees University with spearheading the Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program. Their unwavering confidence in Voorhees University underscores our commitment to steering this community toward the next level of excellence."

The Department of Education awarded 22 institutions of higher education RPED grants to help improve rates of postsecondary education enrollment, persistence, and completion among students in rural communities. These grants will also provide career counseling and individualized student planning to help create pathways for students to find rewarding careers that do not require them to leave their home for economic opportunities.

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