Stilettos for Scholars

Scholarship Gala

Friday, March 22, 2024 7:00 p.m.

The Granary Event Center 2638 Two Notch Road Suite 218 Columbia, SC 29204

Scholarship Gala March 22, 2024 The Granary Event Center 2638 Two Notch Rd. Columbia, South Carolina 6:45 PM-7:15 PM

Registration Champagne Reception Silent Art Auction Mistress of Ceremonies

Dr. Verna F. Orr Chair, Women’s Week Celebration

Welcome

Trustee G. Tyrone Bonds Vice Chair, Benedict College Board of Trustees

The Occasion

Miss Morgan Miles Miss Benedict College 2023-2024

Invocation & Grace

Rev. Dr. Christopher Leevy Johnson

Dinner Service Celebratory Address

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis

Scholarship Gala Special Tributes

Attorney I.S. Leevy Johnson Jerry Screen

Sponsor Acknowledgements and Remarks First Citizens Bank Mr. James Bennett Perkins Management Mr. Nicholas Perkins Strada Foundation Mr. Daryl Graham United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Dr. Michael Lomax, President and CEO

Expressions of Gratitude Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis

Benediction

Rev. Dr. Christopher Leevy Johnson

Dessert and Dancing

Featuring Mike Stone Entertainment

Stilettos for Scholars Gala Sponsorship Levels

Founder Sponsor -

In Honor of Mary McLeod Bethune

Legacy Leader Sponsor

In Honor of Johnetta Betsch Cole

Cole has received numerous honors including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995 and induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 2002.

She is widely respected as an influential scholar and trailblazer for African American women in academia.

Presidential Mentor Sponsor

In Honor of Dorothy Cowser Yancy

Mary McLeod Bethune (18751955) was an influential African American educator, activist, and leader. She was born to former slaves in Mayesville, South Carolina. Despite growing up in poverty, Bethune was determined to get an education.

In 1904, she opened the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls in Daytona Beach, Florida with just $1.50. The school later became Bethune-Cookman University. As its president, she worked tirelessly to provide educational opportunities for African American students.

Bethune was a champion for racial and gender equality.

She advised presidents Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, and Franklin D. Roosevelt on issues concerning minorities and African Americans. In 1936, she became the highest ranking African American woman in government as director of the Division of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration.

She founded the National Council of Negro Women in 1935 and served as president until her death in 1955. Bethune received many honors, including the Spingarn Medal in 1935 and being commemorated on a U.S. postage stamp in 1985. She is remembered as one of the most important black educators and civil rights leaders of the 20th century.

Johnetta Betsch Cole (born 1936) is an American anthropologist, educator, and college administrator. She was the first African American woman to serve as president of Spelman College, a prestigious historically black college for women in Atlanta, Georgia.

Cole was born in Jacksonville, Florida and grew up in Florida and New York. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College in 1957 and her master’s and doctoral degrees in anthropology from Northwestern University.

From 1964 to 1987, Cole was a professor of anthropology, African studies, and women’s studies at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She conducted ethnographic field research in Cuba, Colombia, and Africa.

In 1987, Cole became president of Spelman College and served in that role until 1997. During her tenure, she revamped the curriculum, increased enrollment, and raised over $113 million for the college.

After leaving Spelman, Cole served on the board of the Coca-Cola Company from 1997 to 2009. She has also held leadership positions with the United Negro College Fund, National Council of Negro Women, and National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education.

Dorothy Cowser Yancy (born April 18, 1944) is an American academic and former university president. She grew up on a family farm in Alabama and was involved in civil rights organizations like the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee while attending Johnson C. Smith University.

Yancy earned a Ph.D. in political science from Atlanta University in 1978. She became the first tenured African American female professor at Georgia Institute of Technology in 1972.

In 1994, Yancy made history as the first female president of Johnson C. Smith University.

She raised over $145 million for the school and helped it launch technology initiatives.

Yancy later served as president of Shaw University from 20092011. She has held leadership roles in organizations like the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association.

Stilettos for Scholars Gala Sponsorship Levels

Throughout her career, Yancy has received numerous honors including being named one of the best teachers in the U.S. by Newsweek. She was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and received awards for her contributions to education and the African American community.

Presidential Supporter Sponsor In Honor of Jenny Screen

Trustee Sponsor

In Honor of Doris Wright Leevy Johnson Jenny L. Screen has served Benedict College since 1971. In her current role as Executive Secretary to the President, she exudes efficiency and poise in her responsibilities of managing the office of the Chief Executive Officer.

Doris Wright Leevy Johnson was born on November 16, 1939 to George and Lottie Wright. She graduated from C. A. Johnson High School, West Virginia State University, and earned her Master’s from the Ohio State University. She dedicated her life to the field of education, teaching at W. A. Perry Middle School, Booker T. Washington High School, and Benedict College. Doris retired after 31 years of service to Benedict and at her passing was a member of their Board of Trustees.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, I. S. Leevy Johnson, sons, George (Michelle) Leevy Johnson, Chris (Cynthia) Leevy Johnson, four grandchildren she adored, Rachel, Ryann, Leah and Ian; and of course, her family at the Leevy’s Funeral Home.

Mrs. Screen earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Office Administration from Benedict College in 1980, and a business degree from the former South Carolina Area Trade School, now Denmark Technical College.

With a servant-leadership mentality, Mrs. Screen has dedicated her time and assistance in various capacities in her professional and personal life. Some of those roles include: Past Precinct President, Ward 7; former member of the Edgewood Foundation Board of Directors; former Commissioner of the Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority; Past Member of Richland County Planning Commission; Past Chairman of Ll1e Board, Columbia Bethlehem Community Center; Past Member, External Review Team, South Carolina Slate Department of Education; Past President, Barhamville Estates Neighborhood Association; Golden Life Member, Columbia (SC) Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Past Campus Advisor, Gamma Upsilon Chapter,

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Past President, Professional Secretaries Association (PSA); former Ministry Leader of Ministers’ and Deacons’ Wives; and Leadership Council Past President of the Officers’ Wives Auxiliary.

She is a passionate supporter of her alma mater, and has demonstrated her commitment as a Major Donor and former Top Ten Contributor to the Alumni Annual Fund; a Purple Seat Benefactor in the Charlie W. Johnson Stadium; a consistent supporter and former Top Donor to the Faculty/Staff Campaign; a Life Member of the Benedict College National Alumni Association; a member of the Columbia Alumni Club II; and an annual UNCF ‘A Mind Is Society’ Inductee. In 1995, she established the Jerry M. and Jenny L. Screen Endowed Scholarship Fund at Benedict with a corpus of 50,000 to provide assistance to students in Business.

As in all areas of her life, Mrs. Screen exemplifies servant­ leadership in faith. She is a member of Second Nazareth Baptist Church, the Jones/ McClerklin Missionary Circle, and the Jubilee Choir Ministry Leader.

She is married to Attorney Jerry M. Screen, with whom she shares two sons,Jerry,Jr. and Chadwick, and is the proud grandmother of two jewels, Maleah and Charleigh Screen.

RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL

P.O. Box 192, Columbia, SC 29201 2020 Hampton St. Columbia, SC 29204 P 803-576-2060 | F 803-576-2137 | C 803-977-4339 rccoco@richlandcountysc.gov | www. richlandcountysc.gov

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, JD, EdD President and CEO Benedict College 1600 Harden Street | Columbia, SC | 29204 Dear Dr. Artis, I am writing to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on behalf of myself and the constituents of Richland County District 2, regarding the naming of the Benedict College Administrative Building in your honor. This significant recognition underscores your unwavering dedication to education and the communities you serve.

Your historic appointment as the first female President of Benedict College on June 30, 2017, stands as a testament to your pioneering spirit and your commitment to advancing the cause of education, particularly for underserved and vulnerable populations.

Dr. Artis, your remarkable achievements at Benedict College, coupled with your profound dedication to academia and innovative leadership, truly make you a deserving honoree for the naming of the Administrative Building. I am confident that this prestigious recognition will further enrich the educational landscape of your institution and have a positive impact on students, colleagues, and the broader community.

Congratulations once again on this well-deserved honor! Go Tigers!

Warm regards, Derrek Pugh, Vice Chair Richland County District 2

Committees:

-Development and Services -Central Midlands Regional Planning (COG) -Edventure Children’s Museum -Lexington/Richland Five School District -Recreation Commission -Riverbanks Zoo -Historic Columbia -Richland County Detention Center Task Force Alvin S. Glenn Center & Jail -Township Auditorium -Office of small Business Opportunity Ad Hoc Committee -Employee Evaluation Oversight Ad Hoc Committee- Towns of Arcadia Lakes, Blythewood, Eastover, Forest Acres, Irmo – Blythewood

Dear President Artis, On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, I want to express our heartfelt congratulations on the extraordinary honor of having the administration building on the campus of Benedict College named after you. This tribute is a well-deserved recognition of your outstanding leadership, vision, and invaluable contributions to Benedict College over the past seven years.

Your tireless dedication to advancing our College's mission of providing transformative learning experiences has left an indelible mark on our College.

Under your guidance, we have witnessed remarkable growth, groundbreaking academic initiatives, and a strengthened commitment to student success, organizational efficiency, and excellence.

The Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building will stand as a lasting testament to your legacy, inspiring generations of students, faculty, and staff to uphold the values you have championed throughout your tenure. It is a fitting tribute to your unwavering commitment to providing our students with the best possible educational experience and fostering an environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity and personal growth.

On a personal note, it has been an honor and privilege to work alongside you as we collectively navigated challenges and celebrated achievements. Your wisdom, passion, and strategic vision have been instrumental in shaping the future of our beloved institution.

Once again, please accept our warmest congratulations on this momentous occasion. The naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building in your honor is a testament to the profound impact you have had on Benedict College and the countless lives you have touched.

Sincerely,

Charlie W. Johnson Chairman of the Board

Perkins

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis on the Rededication and Naming of the Administration Building

WHITE HOUSE INITIATIVE ON ADVANCING EDUCATION EQUITY, EXCELLENCE AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY THROUGH HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, It is my profound pleasure to offer this letter of congratulations to you on the rededication and naming ceremony of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building. This is an honor that you are more than deserving of and a fitting recognition by your Board of Trustees who acknowledges your dedication to the students Benedict College serves and the faculty and staff that you lead.

As the Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities, I have appreciated your partnership and leadership, not only as the President of Benedict College, but among college presidents across the country. Your wisdom and guidance have been critically important to the work that we do through the Initiative. Under your leadership, Benedict College is a beacon of progress and success. It serves as an example of all that can be accomplished when our institutions are helmed by leaders that embody the mission and goal of HBCUs. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with and for you and the Benedict family. Your ability to build relationships, resolve conflicts, and speak truth to power is a part of what makes you stand out among peers. Many walk through the trails that have been blazed by leaders like you, but often the strength and dedication that is required to create that path goes unrecognized. The accomplishments you’ve achieved are nothing short of groundbreaking, and on this day, we gather to celebrate you and give thanks for your tireless efforts to uplift and support the next generation, giving them the tools they’ll need to be successful as they journey through life.

Congratulations on this tremendous honor, the best is yet to come.

Sincerely, Dietra Trent, Ph.D. Executive Director, White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities

I know this may sound unusual coming from a man but..

Growing up I always wanted to be like my mother It’s not that I didn’t have a great relationship with my dad, he and I have a great relationship, my mom is just… just the embodiment of a BOSS in human form. Some people make the mistake of thinking that Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis got to where she is simply because she is the most beautiful woman on the planet, and to their point, I’m sure that certainly hasn’t hurt. However, the flaw in their statement lies in their lack of understanding of a few other details.

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis is also the most intelligent, hardworking, loyal, loving, and dedicated LEADER that has ever graced the face of this planet. I know you may be tempted to think, oh that’s her son, he has to say these things. And guess what? You’re not wrong… but that doesn’t mean that I am… So I tell you what, how about you try to prove my theory wrong? Spend time with her, work on a project with her, observe her, and trust me you will come to understand what I know to be true.

Out of all of the characteristics that I laid out before I’m sure some stuck out to you as defining characteristics of Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis. I’d like to draw your attention to the most important of them all that you may or may not have overlooked and that characteristic is LOVING. I say that it is the most important because it is the rarest that a leader can possess in a world of payroll, budgets, and boards of trustees. My mother leads from her heart and that is what gives her the edge. That’s it… seriously that’s the magic recipe… actually caring.

My mother cares so much about everybody that it’s almost unreal to witness every morning Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis is up at 6 A.M. and works relentlessly until the dark hours of the night, more often than not getting home at 8 P.M. or later. When she gets home after a long day of work, she doesn’t stop there...

She cooks dinner, helps with homework, and spends quality time with and cares for her family. My mother is RELENTLESS in the way that she constantly loves so hard nonstop.

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis is a mom, friend, wife, daughter, sister, auntie, grandmother, boss, leader, teacher, fighter, lover but most importantly… Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis an EXAMPLE. An example of just how far leading with your heart will take you. Mom, you have been the greatest example of what humanity can be when their heart and mind are aligned in a positive direction, not just for themselves, but for everyone. I love you so much and I am so proud of you for all that you have accomplished. I am also thankful that all of these amazing people have gathered in agreement that your name will live on for a very long time, not only because of how you’ve lived, but because of how you’ve loved. We should all look to follow your example.

Living…Loving… & Leading…

Like Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis

Dear Mom,

I am so, so proud of you and words can’t even describe how much I love you. You have been such a huge inspiration in my life, and I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have without you. I am forever indebted to everything that you have done for me and I can’t thank you enough for it. You’ve come so far with all you have accomplished and I’m so grateful that I get to have you as a mother. So, even though I may not always express how much I love you and how grateful I am to have you in the best ways I truly hope you understand how much I do.

Since I was little you’ve always been there for me no matter the issue and you’ve helped me stay on track with everything that I want to accomplish in life. You’ve always given me the love and care I’ve always needed, even when I was hesitant to ask for it, and I thank you for that. No words can describe how much I love you and how happy I am to have you in my life. I wish you all the best and I thank God every day that I have you in my life. He has given me one of the greatest gifts I could’ve ever asked for and that is your love and company. I love you to the moon and back and I pray that God continues to bless you and everything that you do. I am forever grateful to have you.

Sincerely,

Jocelyn

Home of Scholars, Debaters, Athletes, Activists, Vocalists, Athletes...

March 18, 2024 President Artis: We are absolutely thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations on the extraordinary honor of having a building on our campus named after you. This recognition is a testament to your exceptional dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to Benedict College.

Your outstanding contributions to the campus community have not gone unnoticed, and it is truly inspiring to see your years of service and leadership being acknowledged in such a prestigious manner. The naming of the building in your honor is a fitting tribute to the positive impact you have had on our campus and the countless lives you have touched along the way.

Your passion for excellence, your tireless efforts to support and uplift those around you, and your remarkable leadership have set a shining example for all of us to follow. It is a privilege to work alongside someone as dedicated and deserving as you, and I have no doubt that the legacy you have built will continue to inspire future generations of students and colleagues.

As we celebrate this incredible milestone with you, please know that your achievements have not only brought honor to yourself but have also enriched our entire community. Your name on the building will stand as a reminder of your remarkable contributions and the indelible mark you have left on our campus.

Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. May this honor serve as a testament to your outstanding legacy and the countless lives you have impacted. I am truly proud to call you my colleague and friend.

Warmest regards,

Herman J. Felton, Jr., Ph.D., J.D. 17th President and CEO

903.927.3201

Wiley University, 711 Wiley Avenue, Marshall, TX, 75670

Follow us on #WileyCollege1873 Wiley University

Office of the President PHONE: 404-270-5001 ǀ FAX: 404-270-5010 EMAIL: presidentsoffice@spelman.edu

Helene D. Gayle, MD, MPH President

March 18, 2024 Via Email Roslyn Clark Artis, J.D., Ed.D President & CEO Benedict College 1600 Harden Street Columbia, South Carolina 29204 Dear Dr. Artis: I regret that I won’t be able to join you in South Carolina this week for the planned festivities; however, I did want to extend my personal congratulations to you on the naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building on Benedict’s campus. What a testament to your leadership to have such a significant honor bestowed upon you. Additionally, let me also congratulate you on the upcoming 2025 publication of The HBCU Sisterhood: Testimonies of Triumph and Transformation.

I do hope that the slated events and celebrations are not only highly memorable occasions but also an overwhelming financial success for you and the College. Again, all the best to you and the entire Benedict College community. May the remaining academic year be one filled with continued achievements and notable triumphs.

Warmly,

Helene D. Gayle

Spelman College ǀ 350 Spelman Lane SW ǀ Box 616 ǀ Atlanta, Georgia 30314-4399 ǀ www.spelman.edu

Office of the President

Morris Brown College 643 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30314 “Morris Brown College is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN 58-0607083”

Dear Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, I am delighted to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the momentous occasion and honor of having the Benedict College Administration building rededicated and named the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building. This is a well-deserved recognition of your outstanding contributions and dedication to higher education and historically Black colleges and universities. This honor not only reflects your personal achievements but also stands as a testament to the positive impact you have made on our community and beyond.

Throughout your distinguished career, you have demonstrated unwavering commitment, vision, and a passion for excellence. As the first woman President of Benedict College, your leadership has been an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of working with you, and this naming is a fitting acknowledgment of your profound legacy. I have personally watched you over the years to learn as much I could from your example. Thank you for being a shining light to all Presidents, especially newer Presidents like me.

May this honor bring you immense joy and satisfaction, as it symbolizes the respect and admiration of all those who recognize the depth of your contributions to Benedict College. May your legacy continue to inspire current and future generations.

Sincerely,

Dr. Kevin James President Morris Brown College

Office of the President March 18, 2024

Dr. Roslyn C. Artis President and CEO Benedict College Columbia, SC 29204 Dear President Artis: With immense joy and great admiration, I extend my warmest congratulations on the building naming ceremony in your honor on the campus of your beloved Benedict College. This remarkable recognition is a testament to your exceptional leadership, contributions, and commitment, as well as the insight and wisdom of the Benedict Board of Trustees.

During a period of storm-tossed seas across higher education, your tenure as President of Benedict has been marked by thoughtful initiatives, unimagined achievements, and an unwavering dedication to the advancement and empowerment of students. The decision to assign your name to the administration building is a fitting tribute to your impact and affirms the legacy you have earned and will continue to create.

On this joyous occasion, we join you, your colleagues, your students, and the entire Benedict family in celebrating this significant milestone. May this building not only be a place of inspiration and progress but also a lasting reminder that we achieve the greatest heights when we wear our own shoes during the quest.

Congratulations, on this well-deserved honor.

Sincerely,

Ernest McNealey Ernest McNealey, Ph.D. President and Chief Executive Officer

Strada Education

HOWARD UNIVERSITY Office of the Provost Center for HBCU Research, Leadership, & Policy

Dear President Artis, Congratulations on this historic occasion as Benedict College prepares to make history with the rededication and naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building on Friday, March 22, 2024. This momentous event not only celebrates your extraordinary leadership and dedicated service to Benedict College but also honors the profound impact you have had on the lives of countless students, faculty, staff, and the wider community. Your visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and tireless advocacy for students' success have truly transformed Benedict College into a beacon of educational excellence and community engagement.

Your personal contributions to higher education and your advocacy for women administrators have set a remarkable standard in the field. As one of the few African American women leading an institution of higher learning, you have been a trailblazer, inspiring generations of students and administrators alike. Your mentorship and guidance have empowered countless individuals to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. As Benedict celebrates this milestone, it is a reflection on the legacy you have built—a legacy of empowerment, innovation, and inclusivity. The Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building stands as a testament to your remarkable achievements and enduring contributions to the field of higher education.

On behalf of the Center for HBCU Research, Leadership, and Policy, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on this well-deserved honor. May this occasion be a celebration of your remarkable accomplishments and evidence of your imprint on Benedict College, higher education, and the countless lives you have touched.

Sincerely,

Melanie Carter, Ph.D. Associate Provost & Director Center for HBCU Research, Leadership, and Policy melcater@howard.edu

2441 4th St. NW, Room 121 Washington, DC 20059

Telephone 202 806 6161

Marybeth Gasman Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair in Education & Distinguished Professor Department of Educational Psychology Graduate School of Education Advancing Equity and Excellence in Education

Rutgers University—New Brunswick 10 Seminary Place, Suite 110 New Brunswick, NJ 08901 cmsi.gse.rutgers.edu marybeth.gasman@gse.rutgers.edu p. 848-932-0848

March 7, 2024

Dear President Artis, Congratulations on the naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building at Benedict College!!

I can’t think of a better way to honor you and to honor women in HBCU leadership.

Thank you for your many contributions to students, higher education, HBCUs, and society overall. You are an exemplar – intelligent, brave, and committed. Above all that you have an amazing heart!

Can’t wait to see what you do next!!

All my best,

Marybeth Gasman Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair in Education & Distinguished Professor

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

700 Park Ave., HBW Suite 520, Norfolk, Virginia 23504 P: 757‐823‐8670 | F: 757‐823‐2342 | nsu.edu

March 15, 2024

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis President and CEO Benedict College 1600 Harden Street Columbia, SC 29204 Dear Dr. Clark Artis: On behalf of the administration, faculty, staff, and students at Norfolk State University, please accept our congratulations on your rededication and naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building. I am immensely proud that your Board of Trustees values your dedication and spirit of excellence and pride. This is a true testimony to your legacy as an amazing leader and professional in higher education.

Dr. Clark Artis, your kindness and generosity have placed Benedict College’s faculty, staff, and students on a road to “be a power for good in society” that other academic institutions will strive to climb. Those of us that call the higher education institution our second home will always remember this day, March 22, 2024 as a day of vision, notable recognition and how we all can continue to invest in our shared future of HBCUs. I and other peer HBCU Presidents support you and are inspired by your actions and stand with you.

I am honored you allowed me to share in this significant and monumental occasion of recognizing your leadership and commitment to HBCUs and our nation. Congratulations on the start and continuation of much success.

Best Wishes,

Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D. President

March 22, 2024

President Roslyn Carter Artis Benedict College 1600 Harden Street Columbia, SC 29294 Dear President Artis: I am honored to extend a heartfelt note of congratulations to you on this momentous occasion of having the administration building at Benedict College named in your honor.

As you mark your seventh year as Benedict’s trailblazing first female president, this eponymous designation perfectly encapsulates the significance of your transformative leadership that will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. Thus, this honor is a fitting tribute to your exemplary tenure.

As we celebrate and honor the countless contributions of women throughout history during Women’s History Month, I am pleased to join with the Benedict community and my sister presidents in paying obeisance to you for the impact you have made and continue to make in higher education.

May this honor stand as a lasting tribute to your exceptional contributions.

Sincerely,

Melva K. Wallace, Ph.D.

March 15, 2024 Dear Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, On behalf of Saint Augustine’s University, I congratulate you on the rededication and naming of Benedict College’s administration building to the Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building. This honor is a testament to your exceptional leadership and transformative impact on higher education.

Your dedication to serving underrepresented communities and your unwavering commitment to institutional excellence is extraordinary and inspiring. It is evident in the numerous accolades and recognitions you have received over the years, including being named “Female HBCU President of the Year” and “President of the Year” for your exemplary leadership in navigating unprecedented challenges.

With great admiration, I commend you for your outstanding achievements and contributions to higher education. Your visionary leadership sets a remarkable example for all aspiring academic leaders, including myself. Your mentorship and friendship have been and continue to be invaluable as I continue to grow in this noble and important profession.

As we celebrate this significant milestone in your distinguished career, thank you for paving the way for future generations of higher education leaders and championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of your work. The Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building is a lasting tribute to your legacy and positive impact on Benedict College and the broader community.

May this honor remind you of the profound admiration and respect we hold for you as a leader, mentor, and friend, especially within the HBCU community. Your tireless efforts and visionary leadership have made a difference, and we are honored to celebrate your accomplishments.

With warmest regards and sincerest congratulations,

Dr. Marcus H. Burgess, Interim President Saint Augustine's University

ϭϯϭϱ KĂŬǁŽŽĚ ǀĞŶƵĞ ͮ ZĂůĞŝŐŚ͕ E ͮ ϮϳϲϭϬ ϵϭϵ͘ϱϭϲ͘ϰϮϬϬ ͮ ϵϭϵ͘ϴϮϴ͘Ϭϴϭϳ www.st-aug.edu

March 22, 2024 Dear President Artis, On behalf of Voorhees University, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and the entire Benedict College family for the remarkable initiative in organizing the Stilettos for Scholars Gala. "Put on your High Heels for Higher Education!" is not just a slogan; it symbolizes a commitment to empowering and celebrating the invaluable contributions of Women in HBCU Leadership.

This gala promises to be a memorable evening of elegance and celebration, dedicated to showcasing the remarkable achievements of women in higher education. The decision to commemorate the naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building is truly an inspiring gesture, recognizing your outstanding leadership and significant contributions to the academic community.

We commend Benedict College for undertaking this noble endeavor and creating a platform to raise funds for capital improvements on your historic campus. Your commitment to enhancing the facilities at Benedict College will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the educational experience of future generations.

It is heartening to witness the dedication and vision behind the Stilettos for Scholars Gala, as it not only highlights the achievements of women leaders but also underscores the importance of philanthropy in higher education. The event promises a night of wonderful food, entertainment, and camaraderie, all contributing to the noble cause of laying the foundation for the future of Benedict College.

Voorhees University looks forward to participating in this celebratory evening and supporting the Stilettos for Scholars Gala. We believe that collaborations like these strengthen the bonds within the HBCU community and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of our institutions.

Once again, congratulations on this momentous occasion, and we eagerly anticipate the success of the gala as it unfolds in the spirit of unity, empowerment, and philanthropy.

Sincerely,

Ronnie Hopkins, Ph.D. President and CEO

19 May 20245

Midlands Board of Directors Chairman of the Board Susan Burroughs President of the Board Dr. Chris Huffman Chair-Elect Dr. Baron Davis President-Elect Kimberly Smith

Directors Tim Arnold Roslyn Artis Dr. Joshua Coney John Giard Jay Hamm Jan Jernigan Jennifer Mccormack Phil Simoneaux Leesa Stout Kathy Wine

Dear Dr. Artis, We acknowledge that every occurrence has a purpose, but your presence on Harden Street proved to be one of significance. Your immeasurable resilience and determination deserve commendation, and we express our gratitude for your contributions. Your accomplishments at Benedict College have been a source of pride and inspiration to us all, and we are honored to have you among us.

The American Heart Association of the Midlands expresses our appreciation for your dedication to excellence, which has been evident in your contributions and efforts. We are delighted to congratulate you on the naming of the center on campus in your honor. It is a fitting tribute to your exceptional character and achievements, and we could not think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.

Best Wishes, The American Heart Association of the Midlands Board The American Heart Association of the Midlands Staff

Congratulations Congratulations on the naming of the administration building in your honor. You have made a impact at Benedict College that warrants such a honor. Your legacy, vision, and transformational impact will always be a part of Benedict’s history. Your dedication to the students, staff, and faculty is evident in your leadership. You have also poured into many aspiring leaders like myself, giving us hope and a model of excellence to aspire to. You have made your mark in the higher ed world through your service and utilizing your voice to strive towards change. This is the honor you deserve, and it is a pleasure to witness you receive recognition for the passionate work you have done in the hearts and minds of many.

With Admoration,

it has been 33 years of love in a friendship that began as 9 truly different women from Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia connected through the bond of sisterhood via the Alpha Delta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated at West Virginia State College.

From our college days until now, you have been a remarkable, strong, beautiful woman who lights up a room with your amiable personality and has always shown authenticity and amazement in everything you do. You have been an inspiration to men, women, young adults, and children everywhere! Your self-determination has enabled you to become an outstanding leader and deserving of all the accolades you have received. You have dealt with adversities in your career with style and grace. Roslyn, you are very intentional about the work you do in education and you continually prove that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Roslyn, you are definitely someone that is well deserving of every recognition you receive because your legacy is so rich that it has to be included in the history books. There is no one like you with the full package of beauty, intelligence, integrity, and wit that is also a committed servant for our communities.

We have watched you for over 3 decades and are in awe of the things you have been able to accomplish not just professionally but also as a remarkable wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. And when God saw the work that He had for you to do coupled with your willing spirit, He blessed you with a supportive husband and amazing children to lighten the load of your journey.

We, as your line sisters are so proud that as one of the Nine Jewels you have accomplished this significant recognition. It has been an honor to call you our friend, our Soror and especially our Sands.

May God continue to guide you on your journey. It is by no coincidence that we Celebrate you this month as we honor dynamic Women and their exceptional achievements. Congratulations to you on the legacy you’re building at Benedict University and on the naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building!!!

We love you…

Tishawa, Sherry, Devon, MauRita, Sonja, Miriam and Trina

Dear Dr. Artis, On behalf of the Board of Directors of CIEE and our global family of 900 CIEE employees, I extend the heartiest congratulations on the rededication and naming of the Administration Building at Benedict College in your honor! It is a tribute to your vision and leadership that your name will forever be attached to Benedict’s campus, a legacy for Benedict, your many future students, and your thousands of Alumni!

We are overjoyed that you are being recognized for your achievements at Benedict, including your passionate commitment to increasing your students’ access to transformational educational opportunities such as study abroad.

Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!

Sincerely,

James P. Pellow, Ed. D. President & CEO, CIEE

Universal Benefits, Inc.

110 East Liberty St. • P.O. Box 2395 • Sumter, SC 29151 • (803) 773-1838 • Fax (803) 775-1829 Website: UBIMFINC.com

Erin Wilson-James Executive Vice-President

Friday, March 15, 2024 Dear Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis,

On behalf of Universal Benefits Marketing Firm, I would like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to you and the esteemed committee on the occasion of the Rededication and Naming Ceremony. This event marks a significant milestone in your journey of institution, celebrating excellence and fostering a legacy of distinction.

We, Universal Benefits Marketing Firm, proudly serve as a sister president supporter for this remarkable event, contributing $2,500 towards the success of this occasion.

I am delighted to inform you of my personal commitment to attend the Stilettos for Scholars Gala on the evening of Friday, March 22, 2024.

Once again, congratulations on this momentous occasion. Your vision and leadership has been truly inspiring!

Sincerely,

Erin Wilson-James

Erin Wilson-James Executive Vice President Universal Benefits Marketing Firm

“Because Winners Win” We’re More than Just a Company….We’re part of a Movement A Wholly subsidiary of Capital Investments LLC • TCapital Builders LLC • Imperial Dining LLC • BFW LLC • Ted Wilson, Private Foundation

.

Columbia, SC Chapter Fern H. Kelly President

March 22, 2024

Joi Gilliam Vice President

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, JD, EdD President and CEO Benedict College

Walletta Moore-Johnson Treasurer

Dear Dr. Artis:

Ashlye V. Wilkerson, Ph.D. Regional Program Chair, Chapter Program Director Tesha White-Mosley Recording Secretary Marcitta Barrington-Hanner Corresponding Secretary

On behalf of the “sister-moms” of the Columbia, SC Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., I bid you a warm and hearty congratulations for your many accomplishments! You embody the true essence of a trailblazer…a woman with a vision, and the desire and ability to make wonderful things happen. You are indeed on mission, on purpose. Although you wear many hats…mother, wife, friend, mentor, educator, woman of God…you wear the responsibility and duty of Benedict College President and CEO, with dignity and respect.

Lakisha Phillips Financial Secretary

Your name on a building is permanent, lasting, and unforgettable. You have clearly left an indelible mark on the students, faculty, staff, and alumni of this great institution.

Chandra Austin-Stallworth Editor

Your Jack and Jill family is so proud of you and anticipate ongoing success as you continue to build your legacy of leadership, scholarship, and service.

Yvette Sands Historian

In Pink and Blue Love

Sonya Brailsford Chaplain

F e r n H . K el l y

Tynika Claxton Nominating Chair

Fern H. Kelly Columbia, SC Chapter President Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

Christine Wells Financial Evaluation Chair

Dear Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, Congratulations on the rededication and naming of the Administration Building in your honor at Benedict College. Benedict College is the pride of faculty, administration, students, alumni, and the communities it serves. This prestigious recognition is a testament to your extraordinary leadership, devotion, and profound impact on Benedict College.

Your leadership and vision have reshaped Benedict College and inspired future generations. Your passion and tireless efforts have left a mark on Benedict College and the lives of students. As we celebrate this moment, I want to express my appreciation for your sacrifices in building Benedict College into a premier educational institution.

Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved honor!

With warmest regards,

Paul Clary Co-Founder MD Energy Advisors

MD Energy Advisors 509 S. Exeter Street, Suite 505 | Baltimore, MD 21202

The Voice or Blacks in Higher Education!

600 Maryland Avenue, S.W. Suite 800E Washington, D.C. 20024presidentsoffice@nafeo.org; NAFEONation.org (202) 552-3300

All Hail Dr Roslyn Clark Artis the 14th and first female president of Benedict College, now serving at the helm for nearly seven (7) years. By having her name etched in stone on the Benedict College Administration Building, President Artis is having bestowed upon her one of the highest and most prestigious honors of the College. By naming the Benedict College Administration Building after Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, the Benedict Board of Trustees not only indelibly etched into the rich history of Benedict College the name and metamorphic leadership of Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, but they also finished important unfinished Benedict business, namely, inscribing the first female president of Benedict College into the capstone of the College. Naming the Administration Building after Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis also reflects a capstone in the privileged service of President Artis whose light shines brilliantly on the campus, in its service communities, and around the globe, shining a light on Benedict College, a potent “Power for Good in Society.”

From the “A Building” named in her honor—the Benedict Board of Trustees have established an arena worthy of the greatness of Dr. Artis, like the woman I imagine Theodore Roosevelt had in

mind when he wrote, “The Woman in the Arena”: It is not the critic who counts; Not the woman who points out how the strong woman stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.

The credit belongs to the woman who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends herself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at worst, if she fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that her place shall never be with those cold and timid souks who neither know victory nor defeat. .

600 Maryland Avenue, S.W. , Suite 800E• Washington, DC 20024 (202) 552-3300 www.nafeo.org

Dear Dr. Artis, On behalf of TCS Innovations, I am delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to Benedict College on the rededication and naming ceremony of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building.

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis's remarkable achievements and dedication as the 14th President of Benedict College mark a historic milestone in the institution's esteemed 147-year history. As the first female president, Dr. Clark Artis has exemplified unwavering leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence, inspiring countless individuals within the college and beyond.

The renaming of the administration building in honor of Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis is a fitting tribute to her extraordinary contributions and enduring legacy. It symbolizes the profound impact she has made on the college community and underscores her unparalleled leadership and dedication to advancing education and empowering future generations.

At TCS Innovations, we are honored to be part of this significant occasion and join you in celebrating the remarkable achievements of Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Clark Artis and Benedict College on this momentous milestone.

As Benedict College continues to thrive under Dr. Clark Artis's leadership, we look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of the institution. May the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building stand as a beacon of excellence and innovation for generations to come.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Travis Smith Travis Smith, Ph.D. Founder and CEO TCS Innovations

334-497-1042

2702 Compass Point Opelika, AL 36801

www.tcsinnovations.org

Office of the President Phone: (304) 766-3111 Fax: (304) 720-2075

March 18, 2024 Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis President Benedict College 1600 Harden Street Columbia, SC 29204 Dear President Artis: As President of West Virginia State University, please accept my heartfelt congratulations on this historic moment for Benedict College. The rededication and naming of the Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building is a fitting tribute which recognizes your transformative leadership in higher education. We are proud to have you as a distinguished alumna of West Virginia State University.

There is no higher calling than a career in education. Your leadership as President of Benedict College and before that as President of Florida Memorial University has literally helped put thousands of students on the road to leading lives of passion and purpose.

At West Virginia State University our motto is It Starts at State, and we are proud you chose to start your educational journey at WVSU. The success that you have achieved over the years and this renaming is a beautiful reminder of your immeasurable accomplishments at Benedict and will forever etch your name in the history of the college. Your work and dedication to transforming lives represents the very best of us at West Virginia State University.

On behalf of your West Virginia State Family, again, Congratulations.

Sincerely,

Ericke S. Cage, J.D., LL.M. President

103 Ferrell Hall PO Box 399 Institute, WV 25112-0399 www.wvstateu.edu

Dear President Artis, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations on behalf of the entire Virginia State University family on the momentous occasion of the rededication and designation of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building. This recognition not only signifies your exceptional leadership but also serves as evidence of your steadfast dedication to our institution and the greater community.

Your foresight, commitment, and ceaseless endeavors have been instrumental in determining the trajectory of your establishment. Under your direction, substantial expansion, innovation, and positive transformation have occurred. Your steadfast dedication to education, impeccable character, and exemplary leadership have served as a source of motivation for innumerable individuals not only within our institution but also in the greater community.

Honoring your extraordinary contributions with the designation of the administration building in your presence is an appropriate tribute and will endure as a symbol of your extraordinary legacy. It serves as a poignant reminder to present and future generations regarding the profound and impactful nature of visionary leadership within an institution.

As you commemorate this significant achievement, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation for your outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to furthering the mission of your institution. In addition to advancing your institution, your leadership has improved the lives of an incalculable number of students, faculty, staff, and members of the community.

We eagerly anticipate the continuation of your collaborative efforts in pursuit of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity across all facets of your institution. You remain motivated to achieve greatness and effect positive change in the lives of those you serve by your steadfast leadership.

I would like to extend my sincere congratulations, President Artis, on this meritorious distinction. May the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building serve as an enduring symbol of excellence, leadership, and optimism for all future generations.

With Warmest Regards,

Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D. President

March 13th 2024 Dear President Clark Artis, On behalf of Quality Education Minorities (QEM) Network and its Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you in your role as President of Benedict College. In Benedict’s mission to provide transformative learning experiences characterized by high quality academic, co-curricular and extra-curricular programming, intentionally designed to develop superior cultural and professional competencies for a diverse student body your exceptional leadership has elevated the already superior cultural of this institution. This is an exceptional accomplishment and a testament to your exemplary leadership, dedication, and vision.

President Clark Artis, your extensive academic experience, coupled with your passion for education and innovation is critical to the future success of the institution. We celebrate your passion to guide Benedict into its next chapter of growth and success. Throughout your career, you have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement, qualities that will undoubtedly serve Benedict as it has the same commitment.

As a member of the Higher Education community, supporting our Minority Serving Institutions nationwide, QEM has had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the positive impact you have already made. Your leadership style, characterized by transparency, inclusivity, and a genuine concern for the well-being of students, faculty, and staff, has garnered widespread respect and admiration.

We at QEM believe under your guidance, Benedict College will continue to thrive as a beacon of higher learning, innovation, and service to society. Your vision for the future, combined with your ability to inspire and empower others, will undoubtedly propel the university to new heights of excellence.

Please accept my sincerest congratulations once again. I am excited to see the incredible achievements that lie ahead for Benedict College under your esteemed leadership.

Sincerely,

President Erin Lynch, Ed.D, CRA elynch@qem.org

March 22, 2024 President Roslyn Clark Artis Office of the President Benedict College 1600 Harden Street Columbia, SC 29204 Dear President Clark Artis, Congratulations on the honor of the rededication and naming of the Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building at Benedict College!

From your start at West Virginia State and your work in the private legal sector to your role as a visionary higher education leader, the West Virginia University College of Law could not be prouder of your success. Often in life, we are called to our highest purpose and your calling to take your professional path into higher education and to further the mission of Benedict College has produced great accomplishments. More than that, your character, dignity, compassion, and intellectualism inspire your students, your colleagues, and your community members to practice their own authentic leadership and to serve others.

We are wish you the best as you celebrate and continue the excellent work that you’ve done at Benedict College and as you face the future with joy and courage.

Sincerely yours,

Amelia Smith Rinehart William J. Maier, Jr. Dean and Professor of Law

OFFICE OF THE DEAN 101 Law School Drive Morgantown, WV 26506-6103 304 293 3199 [office] 225 773 2628 [mobile] amelia.rinehart@mail.wvu.edu law.wvu.edu

WVU is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer—Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran.

Columbia Urban League, Inc. Benedict College’s Stilettos for Scholars Gala!

We Wish You Continued Success In Empowering Lives Through Education!

1400 Barnwell Street Columbia, South Carolina 29201 803-799-8150 www.culsc.org

Contributors Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Trina De Jarnette Dr. Marybeth Gasman Katara Gillespie Shirley “Lady G” Goodwin Tonya Green Representative Leon Howard Senator Darrell Jackson Milton Kimpson Drs. Matthew and Elizabeth Nelson Dr. Verna Orr Representative Todd Rutherford Comet Vicky Sistrunk Devon Tolliver Sherry Whitaker

Lady G Creations Greek Apparel Headquarters

A l l G r Σ Σ k L e t t e r s We l c o m e

The Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis Administration Building

From our Present to our Future...

BENEDICT COLLEGE 1600 Harden Street

Columbia, SC 29204 www.benedict.edu