TheBESTofBC Highlights

Institutional News

Benedict College has been named The State’s Best College for 2025, following the results of the publication’s annual community choice awards. This honor reflects the strong support of students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the broader community who continue to recognize the College’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.

“We are honored to be recognized as The State’s Best College for 2025,” said Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, President and CEO of Benedict College. “This award reflects the dedication of our students, the tireless efforts of our faculty and staff, and the unwavering support of our alumni and community partners. Together, we embody the spirit of #TheBESTofBC.”

The recognition underscores Benedict College’s role as a leading institution in higher education, preparing the next generation of leaders through rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and a legacy of excellence. Benedict College extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who voted and continues to champion the College’s mission and vision for the future.

Benedict College is proud to announce its recognition in the newly released 2026 edition of Research.com’s Best US Colleges Ranking, earning the distinction of Most Popular South Carolina 2026. Research.com, one of the nation’s leading academic data and ranking platforms, evaluates thousands of institutions annually to identify colleges that offer the strongest combination of affordability, academic quality, and projected alumni earnings.

“Being named the Most Popular South Carolina College for 2026 is a powerful affirmation of Benedict College’s mission and momentum. This recognition reflects the trust families place in us, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the extraordinary ambition of our students,” said Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, President and CEO of Benedict College. “At Benedict, we remain committed to providing an accessible, high-quality education that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and creates pathways to economic mobility.”

The 2026 ranking analyzed more than 6,000 U.S. institutions, narrowing the list to over 1,700 colleges that met the platform’s rigorous criteria. Each institution was evaluated using 400+ metrics sourced from trusted databases including, IPEDS and College Scorecard.

Benedict College claimed its first-ever postseason victory in football on Saturday after a stunning last-second play to defeat Wingate, 25-24.

It capped off a comeback for the Tigers after being down 24-0 early in the third quarter.

As Wingate held a 24-19 lead with three seconds left, Jackson Jensen threw a short pass to Tre Simmons, who then ran a few yards before throwing a backwards pass to Malik Mullins on the opposite side of the field.

Mullins then had a clear path to the end zone, scoring the game-winning touchdown with time already expired.

(WIS News 10)

Video: ESPN Sports

At a time when colleges across the nation - and especially HBCUs - are grappling with declining male enrollment, Benedict College is rewriting the narrative. For the first time in its history, the College proudly reports that male students now make up 54 percent of its undergraduate population, a milestone that places Benedict among a rare group of institutions - and one of the only HBCUs - to achieve a majority-male student body.



This remarkable shift comes as the rest of the country faces a very different reality. Nationally, men account for just 42 percent of all undergraduate students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (2024). Within HBCUs, the disparity is even more pronounced, with women representing 63 percent of enrollment and men just 37 percent. Against this backdrop, Benedict College’s success is more than a statistic - it is a bold statement of progress, leadership, and commitment to expanding educational access for Black men.

Benedict College proudly welcomed thousands of alumni, students, families, and supporters back to “The BEST of BC” for an unforgettable Homecoming 2025 celebration. From elegant traditions to high-energy festivities, this year’s Homecoming embodied Tiger Pride at its finest.

A Royal Beginning: Coronations, Pageantry, and Tiger Elegance



Homecoming 2025 officially began on Friday, October 24, with the Royal Coronation of the Beauty and the Noble Tiger. In a dazzling ceremony filled with tradition and Tiger spirit, Benedict College proudly crowned Davar J. Hart, the 12th Mister Benedict College, and April S. Elston, the 83rd Miss Benedict College.

April Elston

83rd Miss Benedict College

Davar Hart

12th Mister Benedict College

April Elston is a proud senior Criminal Justice major from Virginia with aspirations to serve her country as a future C.I.A. agent. A dedicated scholar and leader, April exemplifies the Benedict College standard of “The BEST of BC” -Brilliant, Empowered, Scholarly, and Tenacious.

She is an active member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and the Pre-Law Club, where she continues to sharpen her leadership and advocacy skills. Throughout her collegiate journey, April has been a consistent voice of representation and excellence, previously holding the titles of Miss Freshman and Miss Sophomore, and now proudly serving as the 83rd Miss Benedict College.

Beyond the classroom and the crown, April’s heart for service shines through her work as the founder of The Full Tummies Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing hot meals to K–12 students during the summer months when access to school lunches is limited. Through this initiative, she continues to make a meaningful impact in her community, embodying compassion, purpose, and leadership in action.

With her strong commitment to justice, service, and empowerment, April Elston represents the spirit of Benedict College and inspires others to lead with integrity, intelligence, and heart.

Davar Justin Hart proudly serves as the 12th Mister Benedict College. A talented Studio Arts major and dedicated senior from the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia, affectionately known as “Black Hollywood of the South.” Davar brings creativity, leadership, and purpose to everything he does.

Guided by the legacy and wisdom of his uncle, Davar chose Benedict College as his home away from home, a decision that has shaped a transformative journey marked by personal growth, artistic exploration, and deep community involvement.

Since arriving on campus, Davar has embraced leadership in many forms. Whether showcasing his artistry through precise and passionate barbering or serving through organizations such as Collegiate 100, Brothers in Unity, Mr. 1913, and the Royal Court, he consistently embodies excellence, humility, and brotherhood. His campus involvement reflects a sincere commitment to uplifting others and building lasting connections within the Tiger family.

Two days later, on Sunday, October 26, the stage shined once again as the College hosted the Benedict College Homecoming Pageant 2025. Representing the Windy City— Chicago, Illinois, Cortnae Pope captured the crown as Miss Homecoming 2025, earning applause and admiration from the entire Tiger family.

The momentum continued on Monday, October 27, as the runway lit up with style, confidence, and creativity during the highly anticipated BC Fashion Show. Students showcased everything from bold streetwear to nostalgic 90’s-inspired looks, proving that Tiger fashion is as fierce as Tiger Pride itself. 

On Tuesday, October 28, Benedict College celebrated its global diversity with International Village Day in the Swinton Campus Center Café. Students and guests enjoyed vibrant music, art, dance, and cultural displays that highlighted the rich international fabric of the BC community. 

Honoring Excellence: Athletic Hall of Fame & Leadership Celebrations



Festivities continued on Thursday, October 30, with the prestigious Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet at the DoubleTree Hotel on Bush River Road. The evening honored Tiger legends whose impact continues to shape Benedict athletics.

Benedict College proudly celebrates the newest members of the Athletic Hall of Fame — pictured in photo 1 (left to right) - Loraine Dunbar ’84, Jerome Smalls ’97, Cherae Rice ’11, Bridgette Edwards ’99, Marquez Gibson ’10, and Christine Thomas ’94.

Click here to learn more about our newest Athletic Hall of Fame members.

On Friday, October 31, President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis delivered an inspiring update during the Alumni Leadership and State-of-the-College Award Luncheon, also held at the DoubleTree Hotel. Alumni leaders returned home to celebrate progress and reaffirm their commitment to the College’s mission.

(Left to Right) Elias E. Kibler, Ethel L. Adams, Cedelle E. Gate, President Artis, Henry A. Dyson, Dorothy James, and Albert James. 

Award Highlights

Outstanding Achievement Award: Mr. Elias E. Kibler ’64

Distinguished Service Award: Mrs. Ethel L. Adams ’66 and Mr. Henry A. Dyson ’63

Lula J. Gambrell Award: Mr. Charles F. Barr ’62 and Mrs. Cedelle E. Gates ’71

Community, Culture, and Celebration All Day Long

The afternoon lit up Oak Street with the Annual BC Block Party – Trail Ride Edition from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. The street pulsed with music, food, dancing, fellowship, and pure Tiger spirit.

That evening, the College showed their gratitude to its BEST supporters, donors and friends at the 2025 President’s Reception. 

President Roslyn Clark Artis and Dr. Charlie W. Johnson, Chairman of the Benedict College Board of Trustees. 

Later in the evening the College honored distinguished alumna Brigadier General Peggy R. McManus, Class of 1993, during the Alumni Banquet at the DoubleTree Hotel. Her extraordinary military career and leadership continue to make Benedict College proud.

Brigadier General McManus is presented with a token of the College’s appreciation by Rod Casey, BCNAA President. 

Later in the night, the excitement shifted to the Charlie W. Johnson Stadium for the Annual Step Show and Boosie-Ween Homecoming Concert. Doors opened at 5:30 p.m., and by the 8:30 p.m. concert start, the stadium was filled with energy as students and alumni celebrated in true BC fashion.

Tradition Takes Center Stage: Parade, Tailgate, and the Big Game

On Saturday morning, Tiger Nation gathered along Sumter Street for the beloved Homecoming Parade. Led by The Honorable Derrek L. Pugh, Vice Chairman of the Richland County Council and this year’s Grand Marshal, the parade featured colorful floats, student organizations, community groups, and, of course, the incomparable Marching Band of Distinction.

After the parade, fans headed to Charlie W. Johnson Stadium for one of the biggest games of the season. Tailgating kicked off at 12 p.m., filling the campus with the aroma of great food, laughter, and reconnecting with old friends. At 2 p.m., the Tigers took the field against the Virginia University of Lynchburg Dragons, determined to bring home a Homecoming victory in front of thousands of roaring supporters.

The Benedict Tigers brought home the win, and our amazing alumni made it even sweeter by celebrating over $1.7 million in gifts for the 2024–2025 annual giving campaign!

A Grand Finale: Forty Under 40 Celebration Brunch

Dr. Walleta Johnson presents President Artis with a $50,000 check on behalf of the Forty Under 40 Inaugural 2025 Class.

A spectacular Homecoming week came to a close on Sunday, November 2, with the Inaugural Benedict College Forty Under 40 Celebration Brunch. The event honored rising leaders whose excellence and service uplift the College’s legacy. In an inspiring show of generosity, this remarkable class presented a $50,000 gift to Benedict College, underscoring their dedication to advancing the institution that shaped them.

A Safe, Joyful Weekend for All

The Benedict College Police Department helped ensure a safe and enjoyable Homecoming experience, reminding all guests to review the College’s Safety and Security Guidelines throughout the week.

President Roslyn Clark Artis welcomes keynote speaker, Dr. Henry Tisdale to the College’s 154th Fall Convocation Ceremony. 

Benedict College kicked off its 156th anniversary with a spirited Fall Convocation, welcoming back students, faculty, and staff while celebrating one of the largest freshman classes in recent years. More than 600 new Tigers joined the campus community, marking the biggest incoming class in seven years. The ceremony carried both tradition and inspiration, highlighted by a keynote address from Dr. Henry Tisdale, President Emeritus of Claflin University, who urged students to embrace their place in the HBCU legacy and rise as the next generation of visionary leaders.

Historic First: The Presentation of the Colors was Perfectly Executed by Benedict College’s First

All-Female Navy Guard Unit 

(Left to right) Midshipman Semira Daniels, Charlotte, NC; Midshipman Amya Hout, North Augusta, GA; Midshipman Myakai Robinson, Columbia, SC; Midshipman Anissa Barraza, North Augusta, GA and Midshipman Kennedi Mitchell, Columbia, SC. 

Benedict College Celebrates Over a Decade of Philanthropic Excellence

On July 16th, the Benedict College Tigers proudly commemorates a significant philanthropic milestone as alumni and supporters around the world celebrate over a decade of exceeding annual fundraising goals. For the eleventh consecutive year, the Benedict College Tigers have surpassed expectations - this time by a notable margin. The 2025 Annual Fund goal of $1.7 million was exceeded by $17,222.00, resulting in a total of $1,717,222.00 raised in support of the College’s mission and students. All contributions reported in the Annual Giving Campaign are funds that have been received and not future pledges or commitments.

The Benedict College Master in Business Administration degree has received the highly coveted accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ACBSP is a global business education accrediting body and the only organization to offer accreditation to all levels of collegiate business educational degree programs from associate to doctoral.

Benedict College’s historic Antisdel Chapel, a neoclassical brick building constructed in 1932 during the Great Depression, is receiving a major renovation. Originally built by College’s first Black president, Dr. John J. Starks, the chapel has long served as a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of the campus.

The BEST of BC Faculty and Staff

President Artis was part of a prestigious panel in Martha’s Vineyard with Dr. Michael Lomax, President and CEO of UNCF, Kim Godwin, President of ABC News, and Depelsha McGruder, COO of the Ford Foundation to advocate for HBCUs and their students. They discussed the wealth-building power of HBCUs during a reception at Atria and reminded the audience that HBCUs are not just centers of education, they are powerful engines for socioeconomic mobility and community wealth.

Dr Akilah Carter-Francique, Dean of the School of Education, Health and Human Services, was selected to participate in the 2025 Teaching Vocational Exploration Seminar offered by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) through its Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE). The seminar was held at The Alexander in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Benedict College is once again at the forefront of innovation, as Dr. Hong Jiang has been selected as one of the newest awardees of the prestigious Minority Serving–Cyberinfrastructure Consortium (MS-CC) Research Catalyst Program. Among only five faculty-led projects chosen nationwide, Dr. Jiang’s work positions Benedict as a leader in advancing research readiness and cyberinfrastructure across HBCUs.

With vision and technological ingenuity, Dr. Jiang will spearhead the EduCyber project, an ambitious initiative to develop an AI-powered chatbot and integrated cyberinfrastructure platform designed to elevate educational research and student engagement. Over the next year, the project will empower faculty and administrators with dynamic, data-driven insights to strengthen course delivery—while cultivating a skilled, diverse team of graduate and undergraduate researchers trained in AI, data management, and the ethical use of emerging technologies.

Dr. Kimberly Singletary describes herself as a “willing worker.” Yet, the new director of the Benedict College Honors Program is a visionary and transformational leader on campus.  

Dr. Brendan L. Johnson has been appointed as the new Director of Bands at Benedict College, where he will lead all ensembles, including the nationally recognized Benedict College Band of Distinction (BCBOD).

Garrick D. Rivers has been selected as an Assistant Director of Bands, bringing more than 15 years of experience in music education and a well-respected legacy of student-centered leadership, artistic excellence and program development.

Benedict College proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Melissa Lockard as the new Director of Institutional Planning and Assessment, a pivotal role aimed at driving institutional effectiveness, enhancing student learning outcomes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Benedict College recently announced that Dr. Vanessa Harris, Executive Director of the Benedict College B.E.S.T. Lives Center, was nominated to serve as the Post-Secondary Education Representative for the South Carolina Corrections Education Association (SC CEA) for the 2025–26 fiscal year. 

Melvin Miller is the first Benedict College Faculty Athletic Representative to represent the 15 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) schools as a FAR Fellow.

Melvin Miller has been selected as a 2025 NCAA Division II Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) Fellow. Miller is the first Benedict College FAR to be selected to represent the 15 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) schools as a FAR Fellow.

The BEST of BC Students Lead

Benedict College proudly announced a record-breaking enrollment for the Fall 2025 semester, welcoming nearly 670 new students, the College’s highest new student enrollment in seven years.

Benedict College Senior Maleah Screen has been selected as a 2025-26 Campus Compact Newman Civic Fellow. Screen is a political science major with a minor in pre-law. The Newman Civic Fellowship is a year-long program that recognizes and supports community-committed students who have demonstrated an investment in finding solutions for some of society’s toughest challenges. The fellowship is named in honor of Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders.

Three Benedict College students participated in an exclusive corporate visit to the Microsoft Atlanta Campus on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. Senior Leah Brock, Senior Asia Cooper and Senior Monelle Sherwood represented the Benedict College Innovation Lab and the Tyrone Adam Burroughs School of Business and Entrepreneurship through an invitation by the USC Darla Moore School of Business Dean Deborah Hazzard. This is the first time that Benedict and USC have visited the Microsoft Atlanta Campus together.

Pictured from left to right: Samuel Washington, Ellenwood, GA, sophomore; Rhonda Hickson, Lake City, SC, senior; Roman Gardner, Atlanta, GA, junior; Gabrielle Bennett, Denmark, SC, senior; Ava Jenkins, Prince George’s County, Maryland, junior; Aliyah Jones, Phoenix, AZ, senior and Keisa Gunby, Ph. D., advisor. 

Founded in February 2025, the Benedict College Association of Black Journalists (BCABJ) was approved for student affiliate status through the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). The NABJ executive board granted their approval during the national conference held in Cleveland, Ohio, commemorating the organization’s 50th anniversary.

The Benedict College HCASC Team delivered a stellar start to the 2025–26 season, winning every match during a scrimmage at the Honda Plant in Timmonsville. Congratulations to (left to right) Robert Hamilton, Kadine Beckford, Renelle Lynch, Trissania Lawrence, Theresa Thompson, and Omario Guscott, Captain. 

Benedict College’s brightest minds roared into the 2025–26 academic competition season with the confidence and precision of seasoned champions. The Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) Team delivered a flawless performance on Monday, November 10, dominating a scrimmage at the state-of-the-art Honda Plant in Timmonsville, South Carolina.

In a showcase of knowledge, teamwork, and Tiger pride, Benedict swept every matchup against Allen University and Voorhees University, including a commanding 910-point victory over Voorhees. The day began with an exclusive guided tour of Honda’s advanced manufacturing facility, offering students a firsthand look at innovation in action before stepping into a high-energy arena of academic excellence.

The BEST of BC Athletics

The Benedict College women's basketball team opened the 2025-26 season with a decisive 77-66 victory over Central State University on Thursday night.

Newcomers Miracle Millinghaus and Asiah Harris led the way for the Lady Tigers. Millinghaus scored a team-high 18 points in just 19 minutes, while Harris had a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.

Aaliyah Lawrence also had a double-double for the Lady Tigers, scoring 13 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Benedict dominated on the boards, out-rebounding Central State 62-40, and had a 29-10 advantage in second-chance points. The Lady Tigers also forced the Marauders into 23 turnovers, and scored 23 points off turnovers.

Alumni Spotlight

Community

The Benedict College Men’s Basketball Team, led by Head Coach Dannton Jackson and Assistant Coach Josh Crutchfield, joined the congregation at Bible Way Church of Atlas Road for the 8AM worship service, home to Rev. Darrell Jackson, a proud Benedict alumnus. Rev. Jackson is a shining example of Benedict excellence, who continues to inspire people through his community leadership and ministry. We are proud to see our alumni making a difference and grateful for the opportunity to share in this moment of spiritual encouragement.

Coach Ron Dickerson and his coaches led the Benedict College Tiger Football Team across the street to First Nazareth Baptist Church for worship and fellowship. The nearby church is home to Pastor Blakely N. Scott, a distinguished former member of the Benedict College Family. Rev. Scott retired from Benedict College in May 1998, where he began as the Assistant Director of Auxiliary Services, later serving as College Minister, and then as an Instructor of Religion and Philosophy.

Featured photo: From left to right – Dean Tracy Dunn, Benedict College; Shondra Washington, Catalyst Labs; Jennifer Spears, The Africa Violet Tea Co; Ashley McCall, Welloe Health; Georgina Dukes-Harris, Swishvo; Dez Gerald, ACRELS; Michelle Dugar, Jiluna; Kaylan Joseph, GlamourBae; Millicent B. Lann, Benedict College; Louv Ford, ACRELS; Harold Hughes, Catalyst Labs;  and Jordan ”JJ” Jenkins, JJ’s Learning Academy.

Benedict College proudly hosted Demo Day for Cohort #4 of the Benedict College Statewide Investment Accelerator (BCSIA). Demo Day celebrated the achievements of seven dynamic early-stage founders from across South Carolina. The festive presentation was held in the Little Theater of the Fine Arts Building on the campus of Benedict College and the event drew an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, including investors, banking partners, and members of the community.