South Carolina State University reinstates George Cooper as president, 16 days after firing him
WCBD News
July 1, 2010
South Carolina State University’s Board of Trustees voted on Thursday to reinstate Dr. George E. Cooper as President of the University.
On June 15, 2010, members of the Board of Trustees voted 7 to 4 not to renew Cooper’s contract.
But, with the arrival of two new board members, Anderson attorney Robert L. Waldrep Jr. and alumna Patricia Lott, the board’s previous decision of removing Cooper was reversed by a 8 to 5 vote, and the appointment of Judge Merl Code as interim president was revoked.
Dr. Cooper will continue his tenure at SC State effective immediately, marking his second year as President. During the new fiscal year, Dr. Cooper plans to focus on increasing student enrollment, maintaining a rapport with state government hoping to increase state appropriations, and enhancing the overall mission and vision of the University.
Dr. Cooper had this to say:
“I would like to thank Chairman Pinson and the members of the SC State University Board of Trustees who recently took a vote of confidence which allows me to continue as President of this great university. As President, I do not take this vote lightly as we reaffirm our mission as a land grant university and meet our highest goal -the educational needs of our students, who choose to attend SC State University.
At SC State University “Students are First.” I want you to know that I will work with the Board to stay focused on priorities and open lines of communication that will improve our work as a Board and Administration. This is even more critical as we focus on the needs of this institution, particularly in these tough economic times. Our mission is even more critical as we focus on priority issues such as student access, success and completion.
I would also like to thank the alumni, students, faculty, parents and other stakeholders throughout the country for your prayers for the university and words of encouragement over the past two weeks. You have let me know how much you value our history and tradition and the bright future that awaits us as a partner in the diverse system of higher education in South Carolina.
