Indicates Matter Stricken
Indicates New Matter
The Senate assembled at 11:00 A.M., the hour to which it stood adjourned and was called to order by the ACTING PRESIDENT, Senator SETZLER.
The proceedings taken in Room 522 on April 2nd, 1997 and Room 424 on April 7th, 1997, Blatt Building, Columbia, South Carolina, before Rita L. Creel, Certified Court Reporter and Notary Public in and for the State of South Carolina.
PRESENT - Wednesday, April 2, 1997
Representative Eugene C. Stoddard, Chairman
422B Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Senator Addison "Joe" G. Wilson, Vice Chairman
211 Gressette Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Senator Warren K. Giese
512 Gressette Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Senator Maggie W. Glover
613 Gressette Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Representative Curtis B. Inabinett
328D Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Representative Olin Phillips
Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
PRESENT - Wednesday, April 9, 1997
Representative Eugene C. Stoddard, Chairman
422B Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Representative Curtis B. Inabinett
328D Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Representative Lanny F. Littlejohn
Blatt Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
Senator James E. Bryan, Jr.
Gressett Building
Columbia, South Carolina 29201
ALSO PRESENT:
Ms. Sophia Floyd
Coastal Carolina University (8 seats)
Mr. Delan Stevens Seat 2, 1st
Congressional District
Dr. James F. Kane Seat 4, 2nd
Congressional District
Mr. William L. Lyles, Jr. Seat 6, 3rd
Congressional District
Mr. Keith S. Smith Seat 8, 4th
Congressional District
Mr. Robert D. Brown Seat 10, 5th
Congressional District
Mr. Ellis Rogers Seat 10, 5th
Congressional District
Mrs. Cathy Harvin Seat 12, 6th
Congressional District
Mr. Dean Hudson Seat 14 at-large
Mr. Joseph O. Burroughs, Jr. Seat 15 at-large
Mr. J. Egerton Burroughs Seat 15 at-large
Mr. Richard Harrington Seat 15 at-large
South Carolina State University (4 Seats)
Dr. James. W. Sanders Seat 5, 5th
Congressional District
Ms. Jannette Henry Seat 5, 5th
Congressional District
Mr. Edwin Givens Seat 6, 6th
Congressional District
Ms. Angela G. Brown Seat 6, 6th
Congressional District
Mr. Stephon Edwards Seat 8 at-large
Mr. Jim Furtick Seat 8 at-large
Mr. Warren Darby Seat 8 at-large
Mrs. Theresa Counts-Davis Seat 8 at-large
Mr. J. D. Hydrick Seat 8 at-large
Dr. James A. Boykin Seat 10 at-large
Ms. Rhonda Parish Seat 10 at-large
Mr. William Clinkscales Seat 10 at-large
Mr. Ellis Rogers Seat 10 at-large
Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School (4 Seats)
Ms. Clotilda D. Diggs at-large
Mr. Russell Hart at-large
Ms. Elizabeth Thrailkill at-large
Ms. Jennalyn Dalrymple at-large
Mr. Dan Smith at-large
Mr. Robert Moeller at-large
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: We appreciate all of you coming this morning. We are indeed lucky to have so many qualified people to appear to seek public service which is so oftentimes unrewarding. Our committee members are Representative Olin Phillips, on the far left; Representative Curtis Inabinett, on the left, Senator Giese on my right. Historically by law, we have always waived screening, that is, the formal part. We have cleared records and all of you have been searched pretty good. The only thing we found was one person with a misdemeanor, a minor incident. So I entertain a motion to waive screening for those unopposed candidates.
MR. INABINETT: So moved.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett moves, Mr. Giese seconds it. We waive screening for the unopposed candidates. Those of you who are unopposed may depart at your liberty, or you may remain for the rest of the screening session. That would be ...
MR. PHILLIPS: Mr. Chairman?
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes, Mr. Phillips?
MR. PHILLIPS: If you would, would you read the names of the unopposed for the record?
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Coastal CarolinA: Mr. Delan Stevens, Dr. James F. Kane, Mr. William L. Lyles, Jr., Mr. Keith S. Smith, Ms. Cathy Harvin, Mr. Dean Hudson. I believe that's all of the unopposed. So we will commence now with those who have opposition. Mr. Robert Brown. Is Mr. Brown present?
MR. BROWN: Here.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Would you come forward, please, sir, to the podium there? Raise your right hand, please. Mr. Brown, do you swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. BROWN: I do.
MR. BROWN - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Brown, do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, I could.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I do not.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of Mr. Brown? Senator Giese.
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GIESE:
Q: Mr. Brown, what is of particular interest at Coastal Carolina for you?
A: Well, I'm interested in all education. As you know from my letter you have here, I've been in education all my life. I've been an athletic coach on the college level for many, many years. I've dealt with youth, young people. I know how to talk to them, I understand them. I know accountability. Coastal is a tremendous opportunity there. It's sort of like a virgin college in that it is on its own now for the last four years. It's in a tremendous location. We have a fantastic student body there. There are opportunities there for growth and development, and I expect that in the not too distant future, it will be one of the greatest universities in our country and with respect to the nation. It has a lot of room for growth, and I feel that I could be helpful in that growth and development.
SENATOR GIESE: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions, gentlemen?
MR. INABINETT: I have one question.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: A lot of colleges and universities in most cases always need additional finances, financial support. Can you tell us if you have any projections as to what you might be able to do financially by way of bringing in funds for the college?
A: Yes, I would like to address that. As from my vitae you have there, I was head football coach at Morris College in Sumter for a number of years. My brother was John Brown, Athletic Director of Benedict College. We played all the schools. We know a lot of people. I know tremendous people in the state. Ms. Glover has been to some of our meetings. And I am president of the Kershaw County Black Caucus, and we've had all politicians, republican and democrats in, and I do know a lot of people. And I don't see any problem in ... we do get communication from the ... our treasurer of the college asking us to exert ourselves to get two people aboard, donations and contributions, and we've been very successful at it.
Q: Were you ever able to get large corporations to make financial contributions to the institutions that you were affiliated with?
A: Yes. I'm affiliated with Johnson C. Smith University, also. I'm a graduate of that school in Charlotte, North Carolina. And I've coached at Shaw University, Howard University, and many other schools, and we're called upon many times to give donations to these institutions, along with Coastal Carolina. And what I intend to do is to use the people that I know throughout the state and outside of the state to let them know what the need is. I do not ask them for any set amount. But I do ask them if they can, please do whatever they can because we're in need.
SENATOR INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions, gentlemen? Thank you, sir.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Next, we will hear from Mr. Ellis Rogers. Raise your right hand, please. Do you swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. ROGERS: Yes, sir.
MR. ROGERS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir, I don't.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you know hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir, I don't.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of Mr. Rogers?
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: I have the same question with reference to ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you ...
Q: ... with reference to helping the college financially.
A: Sir, I'm willing, able, and whatever it takes to bring in funds, if that means holding, you know, charity fund raisings, anything like that, getting to know people as a person in general. I'm willing to do it. I'm willing to give a hundred percent of my time.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Thank you, Mr. Rogers. Next, we have Seat 16 at-large, Mr. Joseph O. Burroughs, Jr. Good morning. Raise your hand, please. Mr. Burroughs, do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. BURROUGHS, JR: I do.
MR. BURROUGHS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Burroughs, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir, I do not.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: I do not.
Q: Do you now hold any public office, position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of this gentleman?
MR. INABINETT: I have the same question.
A: I have served on the Coastal athletic board, the C-Note Club, the booster club board, for about ten years, and over those ten years, that's all we do, is try to raise money for the athletic program. I am not a person who has tremendous contacts throughout the state, but I think I've shown as president of their organization, and just being a member of that for ten years, that I am capable of raising money and don't mind going out and asking for it. I realize that the state has their budget problems as far as more money for universities and colleges throughout the state. I know that's falling on the private sector more and more now. So I realize that that's a part of what I'll be facing as a trustee if I'm elected. So I'm willing to do that and I do have some experience.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Giese?
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GIESE:
Q: Do you have any plans for a field house or basketball arena?
A: I don't have any plans for it, but I think Coastal has definite plans for it. There has been a lot of talk on the booster club board about that. There is talk with the administration about it. I'm aware of all that. And it was talked at one time of trying to share the convention center in Myrtle Beach, and I don't believe that's working out. It's my personal feeling we are probably going to need a building like that on campus, but that's just a feeling here. I'm not aware of the money that's got to go into that sort of thing. I think I would be open either way to it.
SENATOR GIESE: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Thank you, sir.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: I might add that the other members of our committee have other commitments. Possibly some of them will be coming in from time to time. But all of this is a record, and will be, of course, reviewed by them. Next on the list, we have Mr. J. Egerton Burroughs.
MR. BURROUGHS: Good morning.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes. Mr. Burroughs, raise your hand, please, sir.
MR. BURROUGHS: Yes, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Do you swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. BURROUGHS: I do.
MR. BURROUGHS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public positions of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of this gentleman?
MR. INABINETT: I have the same question.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Thank you, sir ... with reference to your ability to bring financial assistance to the institution.
A: I believe Coastal Carolina, like all the institutions of higher education in the state, will have increasingly difficult times coming by the necessary funds to operate from traditional sources. The state is heavily burdened by many obligations and requests for funds. I think Coastal Carolina, as all the other institutions, will have to aggressively go after innovative ways for financing. They will have to go to the business community, industry and look for innovative programs to not only obtain funds for the school, but to assist the students in funding for their education. I believe that I have many times before had to go to different federal sources, state, and other places working with committees and people raising funds for numerous sources in the private industry. And I would be delighted and work diligently to help secure these additional funds for Coastal.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions, gentlemen? Thank you, Mr. Burroughs.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: We've just had Senator Glover to join us. Next on our agenda is Mr. Richard Harrington. Raise your hand, please, Mr. Harrington. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. HARRINGTON: I do.
MR. HARRINGTON - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Harrington, do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public positions of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions, gentlemen? Mr. Inabinett?
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Sir, I have the same question, Mr. Harrington. Your contacts or projections for helping the institution financially.
A: I do not have the present contacts, but in my past, I was very involved in fund raising. Not exactly fund raising, but getting money into the university, universities, Johns Hopkins University, for physically developing and program expansion. I was with the St. Judes Childrens Research Hospital for a number of years. I served as a member of the board of trustees. St. Judes is the largest fund raising institution in the country. They raise over $100 million a year. While I was in the operational part of that activity, the fund raising was under another part, but it had some interlocking trusteeships, the board of trustees and board of directors. I did not directly become involved in the everyday development of various contacts for fund raising, but I did become involved in the presentation and discussions and meetings with certain organizations for fund raising purposes.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Giese?
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GIESE:
Q: When did you move to South Carolina?
A: 1990.
Q: 1990?
A: Yes.
Q: And your job you are retired from? I know you've got a little age on you here. I'm looking at this. You served ...
A: I have not been inactive, sir. I've been active in the Myrtle Beach area.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator, that's maturity.
SENATOR GIESE: Maturity?
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: That's right.
Q: But your last job was at St. Judes?
A: St. Judes Childrens Research Hospital. That's correct. I was there approximately fifteen years.
SENATOR GIESE: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions, gentlemen? Thank you, sir. That completes our screening of Coastal Carolina contestants. We now move to South Carolina State University. If there are any of you who are unopposed, we have received and passed a motion that we waive screening on those who were unopposed. We appreciate your attendance. You may leave, though, if you desire. We have Dr. James W. Sanders, Seat 5. That is the 5th Congressional District. Dr. Sanders.
DR. SANDERS: Good morning, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Raise your hand, please, sir. Do swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
DR. SANDERS: I do.
DR. SANDERS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Dr. Sanders, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving the board in a full capacity?
A: None that I know of, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that present a conflict of interests because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I don't.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of this gentleman?
MR. INABINETT: Yes, sir.
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Dr. Sanders ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
Q: ... I have the same question with reference to your ability to bring in additional financing to the institution.
A: I've really been working with the institution for the past four years and striving to do some of the things that I hear you talking about in regards to raising funds and activities of that sort. So, we have been working with them, we have been giving. We've been giving our personal resources in an effort to alleviate some of those financial burdens that are upon the school today that have to be met. We also have contacts throughout the state in many areas that we certainly continue to try to encourage to be supportive of those kinds of funds that would help the school make progress along the lines that you are talking about.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Giese?
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GIESE:
Q: You were on the board the last four years?
A: Yes.
Q: And surely you are aware of the situation with the school of nursing?
A: That's correct.
Q: And could you tell me what your feelings are about continuing the school of nursing?
A: Well, we were elated to find out that we were able to continue that program there at the school because we feel that is a very needed program and one that certainly, we feel is on the upgrade and moving progressively to meet those kinds of needs that are there. So we are very much in favor of that, and we were just delighted to be given that opportunity once again to do so.
Q: The point I'm trying to press is, is the board committed to giving the support that it needs to give to the president so that this can be successful?
A: Yes. As vice-chair of the board, I would like to think that I have the ability of knowing that we are willing do that. It is an concerted effort of the board to try to make sure that that success is given and that we are giving the president the kind of support that is needed to help to make this program a success.
SENATOR GIESE: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the doctor? Thank you, Doctor. Next, we have Ms. Jannette Henry. Raise your right hand, please, Ms. Henry. Do you swear the foregoing is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MS. HENRY: I do.
MS. HENRY - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Ms. Henry, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, I don't.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I don't.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I do not.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Questions?
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Ms. Henry, I have the same questions with reference to the additional financing for the institution. Can you tell us what your projections are or what you might be able to bring to the table by way of financial assistance?
A: I have been fortunate to be able to work with small corporations and large corporations in order to get money for various things in our school district, such as the Fairfield Business Education Partnership Committee. I have learned the types of presentations that big businesses or corporations like to have when you go to ask for money, so I know how to do that. I also have had a lot of experience in working with a scholarship endowment where there was virtually no money, and I basically had to do all the planning, the fund raising, the whole nine yards. So I've had quite a bit of experience in working with businesses, with people, because I've had to get money from various individuals for things, and large corporations. And I feel I could bring that experience to the table.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the lady?
MR. PHILLIPS: Yes, Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Phillips.
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: Ms. Henry, can you give us any insight of what you could do as far as advancing the university plans, anything you can share with us at this time, reasons you are offering for this position?
A: I feel after listening to Dr. Davis' speech about two weeks ago, some of the things that the university is going to be entering into, I have that educational experience. I'm particularly interested in the performance accountability funding. That's something that I'm very interested in and have read a lot on, and I think with my educational experience, I could bring a lot to the table with that. I also feel that with the experiences that I have had in the past, I can greatly enhance the organization's goals.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Thank you, ma'am. Next, we have Seat 6, Mr. Edwin Givens. Raise your right hand, please, Mr. Givens. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. GIVENS: I do.
MR. GIVENS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Givens, do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, I don't.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I don't.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I don't.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the gentleman? Senator Giese.
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GIESE:
Q: Mr. Givens, what led you to show an interest in the board, serving on the board?
A: Thank you, Senator Giese. I became interested in the board some two years ago when I was first elected to the board. I'm a 1985 graduate of South Carolina State University. I'm a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Law. And while at South Carolina State, while I matriculated there, I was very much involved in student activities. I was involved in fraternities and ROTC and campus government. And after attending South Carolina State, I felt South Carolina Stated equipped me with that I needed to be successful in life. I went on to law school and became involved in various civic activities, and also, a practicing attorney in civil litigation and contract law. And why I became interested in the board, I felt I had something to offer the board, and I couldn't think of a better way to serve my university than to give back what the university has given to me and afford what the university has afforded me. I bring to the university an array of skills. I'm involved ... I'm currently chairman of the student affairs committee. I feel that I have somewhat of a post-nexus to the students. Like I said, I'm an '85 graduate of the university. When I was first elected to the board, it was less than ten years since I had graduated from the university, so there were some concerns when I was in school that were still present when I came to the university as a board member. And I took it on personally to address some of these concerns, problems, and the dormitories with cleanliness and our maintenance staff, as far as their accountability. We have launched a task force from my committee, and I am happy to say that things are definitely shaping up. Students are being made to be more accountable. Also, I have also implemented on my committee a form where students can actually come to my committee and have input on concerns that they have at the university. I always felt that there was a big gap in the situation of students and the board and not being able to actually have ... not being able to actually come together and where students would actually have an opportunity to address the board. So my committee has a policy in place where students, if they have a concern, they can put it in writing, and that they can come and address the board for a five minute stint. And I'm happy to say that many of our students have taken advantage of this. Also, as far as fund raising, I've also participated on our annual fund campaign. I've been a participant of the steering committee on our scholarship gala, which I feel at this point, the board membership has his own personal niche as far as where he goes as far as fund raising. But my personal niche when I was on the steering committee for the scholarship gala, I contacted and I did everything I could through the legal community to bring in funds, and I'm happy to say that I sent a letter to every member of the South Carolina black lawyers and other lawyers, which I'm a member of the American Bar Association and co-chair of the Young Lawyers in the profession. And I'm happy to say that many of my constituents were willing and able and did contribute to our scholarship gala in which we raised over $100,000.00.
Q: One question, yes or no answer. Do you consider taking a sabbatical and coming to the University, your second alma mater?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson.
SENATOR WILSON: Well, as a former Charlestonian, I'm very impressed. Representative Inabinett can probably notice this, too, that you have your residence in Charleston.
A: Yes.
Q: And you work in Columbia?
A: Right.
Q: And do you commute daily?
A: No, no, I don't. I commute mostly on weekends. Sometimes ... my practice actually is encompassing of Charleston, also. I have a home in Charleston on 100 Fishburn Street, and I also have a home here in Columbia at 1002 Beaufort Street, which is also in the 6th Congressional District. So I chose to just keep it with Charleston.
Q: Well, I was just impressed that somebody would be such a commuter, and you get to know the State of South Carolina very well.
A: Right.
Q: And in fact, you drive by South Carolina state on a daily basis practically.
A: Well, quite often. My firm has offices in three cities and a concentration in the Charleston area, too.
SENATOR WILSON: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Senator Glover?
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GLOVER:
Q: Good morning.
A: Good morning.
Q: Mr. Givens, you filled when you first ran for the board, you came under the scrutiny of being one of the youngest, and people had problems with that. How do you think you faired?
A: Well, I think I faired pretty well. Like I said earlier, I'm not that far removed as a student from the university, and I felt I was able to contribute to the board as far as coming in and being able to work more closely with the students. There are many occasions that I've had the opportunity to visit our student functions. I've worked closely with our student government presidents, and I've increased funding for the student government so they can have more activities on campus that will actually keep them on campus and keep them out of trouble. I think that's a very important skill to bring to the board, and I've been successful, I think, in bridging the gap. It's been said by some of my other colleagues that I can actually appear at functions on campus and not be noticed as a board member. So I'm somewhat of a spy through the dormitories, too.
Q: Give me your thinking about female representation on your board. You know that before ... I even think the year you ran, we've always had female candidates for many of the boards trustees. But South Carolina State has been ... you know, we have not been able to elect a female in quite a few years. What is your thinking on that? Do you see, as the other minority there, do you see that as a ... well, just give me your thinking about that.
A: Well, South Carolina State has a population of males and females. I think qualified females should offer for board seats. I have no problems with that. I think they should take on the task, the responsibility of offering for the board. But I do believe that the most ... well, not the most, but I should say the best qualified candidates should always be elected. We have to look at what this person actually brings to the board and make that decision. If the female who has offered for the seat is the most qualified person, then I think she should be elected.
SENATOR GLOVER: Okay, thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions, gentlemen? Thank you, sir. Next, we have Ms. Angela G. Brown. We have had Senator Wilson to join us just recently, and of course, Senator Giese had another meeting, which he was running late for.
SENATOR WILSON: The Finance Committee.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes, ma'am, Ms. Brown, raise your hand, please. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MS. BROWN: Yes, I do.
MS. BROWN - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Ms. Brown, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of you service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public positions of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: And questions of the lady?
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Ms. Brown ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
Q: ... I have the same question. Will you tell us, in your opinion, what you will be able to bring to the institution financially?
A: In my position now as the college advisory specialist for the South Carolina Statute for Teacher Improvement, I'm constantly out seeking fundings for scholarships for some of the best and brightest students in the State of South Carolina. It is our vision this year that we would even move forward into major corporations. It is my vision not only that I seek monies from large corporations, but also to encourage the faculty members, as well as the school to seek more grants as another source of funding, as well as endowments. I believe that with the contacts that I have made across the state because of my job, I do travel across the entire State of South Carolina, I will be able to make even more contact than I've already made.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions for the lady?
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GLOVER:
Q: Ms. Brown ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Ms. Glover.
SENATOR GLOVER: Thank you. And excuse me.
Q: Ms. Brown, do you see a specific role for females on the board?
A: I do. I see females not being on the board like having salad with no dressing. You must have adversity. When we talk to the young ladies, we have them to look at the board as being a representative board for them to voice their concerns and look out for things that are of interest to them. We must have a female who can project that thinking and that image. It is important that females play a part on the board. Of course, because we have females through the State of South Carolina State University. Also, they need to see females as role models. We constantly talk about role models, and it is important that those students be able to see females on that board in a leadership position so that they will know that there is some future for them being able to play a role in that capacity.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the lady? Thank you, ma'am. One thing I overlooked when we started and I introduced the members of the committee, I failed to introduce our secretary, Ms. Sophia Floyd.
SENATOR WILSON: The most important person here.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: The backbone of the committee, and I'm certain all of you have talked with her already. Next, we go to Seat 8, Mr. Stephon Edwards. Mr. Edwards, raise your hand, please. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. EDWARDS: I do.
MR. EDWARDS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: I do not.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I do not.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Questions of Mr. Edwards? Mr. Senator Wilson.
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman.
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR WILSON:
Q: Mr. Edwards, I was very impressed. I attended the inauguration of President Davis, and from the moment I arrived, even before I got there, the communication with me that ... inviting me and then the follow up, everything was done professionally, and the students were so friendly from the moment we got there. I met with family members. The program was excellent. And so I want to commend you as chairman of the board, and all the persons associated with it, that it was an upscale and very elevating experience for me, and I was delighted to see the media coverage. It was very positive for South Carolina State. And so I really just want to commend you for a very fine program and a good choice of president, too.
A: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of this gentleman? Mr. Inabinett.
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Mr. Edwards, I have the same question. Having been on the board, you might want to tell us what you've done in the past to help the institution financially, what your future projections are.
A: You're exactly right. Financial giving or financial support, in my opinion, begins at home. This year's chairman of the board, this is my first year as chairman of the board, I kicked off my annual fund raising drive, and we got a hundred percent of the board members to make pledges that they will support the university financially themselves. And I think that's the first time in my six years of being on the board that we've been able to do that. So, I was very proud of that. But as ... and when we go after those corporations, it has been my understanding and my experiences that those corporations want to know exactly what you've done. So we've got to get ourselves to be willing to put up before we can ask someone to put up as well. We've worked very closely with the National Alumni Association and have an excellent working relationship with them. Their giving has increased twofold. Our overall fund raising has increased tremendously under the new leadership of Dr. Davis. So we are very proud of what we are doing. We need to do more. As board members, we have to do more. And if I'm re-elected, of course, I will continue to do even more.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the gentleman? Thank you, Mr. Edwards.
A: Thank you very much.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Next, we have Mr. Jim Furtick. Raise your hand, please. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. FURTICK: I do.
MR. FURTICK - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Furtick, do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, I don't.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I don't.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I don't.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Questions of the gentleman?
EXAMINATION BY MR INABINETT:
Q: Sir, I have the same question in reference to ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
Q: ... with reference to financing or finances for the institution. Tell us what you feel that you will be able to do.
A: Thank you very much. First of all, I would like to thank the screening committee, first of all, for being here and being a candidate. One of the things I think South Carolina State, in terms of funding, I heard earlier talking about corporate entities, private sector, and that sort of thing. Being and serving on the commission, there are also certain fund raising and that sort of thing in terms of the private sector and corporate. But serving on the board of trustees at South Carolina State, I believe that we also need to look in the private sector. I will certainly look in the private sector. But most importantly, I think we need bi-partisan support in terms of when we talk about the Governor's office and other entities in the state. I think personally that we also need to talk about private sector, but we need to find a resource in terms of what other colleges and universities are doing in the state in terms of funding and that sort of thing. And if they are doing it right, then we need to be about the business of networking with them and contacting them. For instance, the University of South Carolina, I think we need a more networking kind of approach in terms of their endowment and that sort of thing. But certainly, I would contact them and in terms of networking and see what kinds of resources that we could hook up in terms of fund raising.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
MR STODDARD: Any other questions? Senator Glover.
SENATOR GLOVER: Yes.
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR GLOVER:
Q: Mr. Furtick, you are a new applicant. Tell me your thinking on female representation on boards.
A: Yes.
Q: And this board in particular.
A: I think that having all male candidates in terms of the board of trustees at South Carolina State University, it does not represent the people in terms of females. I wholeheartedly think that we do need female representation on the board of trustees, and certainly that would give some in in terms of what her problems that may be going on within the college, within the university institution.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank you for sending out to us the background information that we received over the weekend so we would have a chance to prepare, and I was very impressed by the prepared statement of Mr. Furtick, and actually of the other persons that have applied. And I'd like to make an inquiry that it at least be included in the record to be presented to the General Assembly. And if not, I would like to move that the prepared statements be a part of the record for members of the General Assembly to have the opportunity to read because I thought they were all very helpful to me and showed a very keen and positive desire to serve.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson moves.
MR. INABINETT: I second that motion.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett seconds. All in favor say aye; opposed, no. The ayes have it. So ordered. Any other questions of the gentleman? Next, we have Mr. Warren Darby. Raise your right hand, please, Mr. Darby. Do you swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. DARBY: I do.
MR. DARBY - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Darby, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of serving on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of Mr. Darby?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson.
SENATOR WILSON: I'd like to point out that those of us who live in the Midlands are very proud to note that Mr. Darby very recently received a promotion as one of the top ranking officials now of one of the largest corporations, SCE&G, and certainly a very civic minded company, and we are proud of your success.
A: Thank you very much.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett?
EXAMINATION BY MR INABINETT:
Q: Mr. Darby, I have the same question for you, sir, with reference to your ability to or projecting ability to bring in additional financing to the institution?
A: Yes, sir, Mr. Inabinett. My position with Scana Corporation, I'll be glad to do what I can to make sure that our policies on promoting education in South Carolina include a contribution to SC State. In my previous term on the board, I presented the school with a check of $25,000.00 from the Scana Corporation. I hope that source will continue. But I also work with administrations and other large corporations in South Carolina and outside South Carolina that do business here, and I will see that they also support the school.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of this gentleman? Thank you, Mr. Darby.
A: Thank you very much.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Next, we have Ms. Theresa Counts-Davis. Ms. Davis, raise your right hand, please. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MS. COUNTS-DAVIS: I do.
MS. COUNTS-DAVIS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Ms. Davis, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I do not.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of Ms. Davis? Mr. Inabinett.
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: I have the same question with reference to financing for the institution. Can you tell us what you project you will be able to do to bring in additional financing for the institution?
A: I think I would be able to provide assistance in making sure that the board has developed an effective, strategic plan in terms of what they would like to pursue regarding additional finances, and work to my fullest abilities to secure those. I consider myself as outgoing and energetic, and I have no fear of talking to people. I cannot say that I have enormous contacts across the state, but I do and have worked with other organizations on fund raising activities, my sorority, a couple of the Girl Scouts of the Midlands. And so I have had experience in raising funds.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the lady?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson.
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR WILSON:
Q: Ms. Counts-Davis may be a little bit modest. As a member of the Junior League of Columbia, Representative Inabinett, I bet she knows half the people in Columbia. So I want to add that. I noticed that in your resume.
A: Yes, I am a member of the Junior League of Columbia and their role in terms of developing leadership skills in women, as well as raising money, we have done a tremendous job, I think, in promoting our Smart Dash program which promotes school readiness for children 0 to 5, and soliciting the corporate and communities support in that.
Q: And it's one of the best networking organizations in America. Congratulations.
A: That's absolutely correct.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the lady? You may step down.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Next we have, and final on Seat 8, Mr. J. D. Hydrick. Raise your right hand, please, Mr. Hydrick. Do swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. HYDRICK: I do.
MR. HYDRICK - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Questions, gentlemen?
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Sir, I have the same question.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Inabinett.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
Q: With references to raising finances, can you tell us what in your opinion you will be able to do to increase the financial stability of the college?
A: Yes, sir, Representative. I co-chaired and co-founded the Pat Davis Scholarship Tournament in the 70's for a good friend who passed away. We started at ground zero and we raised in excess of $80,000.00 over the years, which sent ten children from area schools in Orangeburg to various colleges. I'm very proud of that fact. Also, I'm currently involved in something with the State University now through the athletic department. I've been before the board trying to do something pertaining to the State University field. We've raised over a millon dollars. I know that we will be able to do that. Through my insurance background, my agents, regional agency, I have a lot of contacts with large corporations in my business end in Orangeburg and throughout the state where we can procure funds. I think also, Representative, when we talked about going to the corporate and the private sector, we also should not overlook going hack to our alumni association. The South Carolina State University has had a very proud tradition of sending wonderful athletes into the professional sports. They have enormous resources. Certainly they would be very receptive if approached probably to help us fund some athletic things, as well as educational endowments, and get funds there. So I would be very energetic in doing that.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the gentleman? Thank you, Mr. Hydrick. That completes Seat 8. Next, we go to Seat 10, Dr. James A. Boykin is first. Raise your right hand, please, Dr. Boykin. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. BOYKIN: I do.
DR. BOYKIN - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Dr. Boykin, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: I would be, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the doctor? Mr. Inabinett.
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Dr. Boykin, I have the same question. Maybe you can tell us what you've done in the past and what your projections are for the future as it relates to bringing in additional finances to the college, or to the university.
A: First, let me apologize for being a little bit late. It's not the same old thing as having car difficulty. I was lucky enough to anticipate what would happen if I had continued at a different time. But I'd like to thank all of you for allowing me to be here. Chairman Stoddard, Senator Wilson, Glover, Representative Inabinett. Fund raising is of vital importance to South Carolina State University. In addition to being involved in fund raising, I would say to you that I would like to bring continuity to this board with my experience, influence, vision, leadership, stability, and my concern with public relations. We need more than fund raising, but with respect to fund raising, I have excellent relationships and contacts with alumni, as well as the foundations, and other fund raising groups that might contribute, as well as with the board itself in which all of us contribute. Also, there are various corporations that we are able to secure funds from. I'd like to say that of vital importance to South Carolina State University at this time, which I have been involved in and have continued to promote during the years, I serve as a result of my sincere desire, my love, and my interest in the institution, to see it move forward ... we do have in place, which we are using now, a ten year master plan that we have established some years ago. We did a recent ground breaking for the new arts and ... music and arts building, even though it will take about eight years, we did break ground. But there are numerous other projects that we have on the drawing board that's going to be critical during in the years ahead. I will continue to promote fund raising, but the most vital issue that South Carolina State University faces at this time, and we are all aware of it, is that we are about to take up, what we call performance based funding. That's a most critical issue, not only for South Carolina State University, but for every institution in the state. It's a new experience for South Carolina State University. It's a new experience for other colleges. And it's going to be real critical in order for an institution to maintain itself, number one, in order to have quality students. They will have to be invited and hopefully will stay at the institution. We need to maintain a quality faculty, as well as that with the students. We need to continue expansion of the physical plans. We have got to continue to expand the curriculum, with respect to either of our twelve degrees. And at this time, the performance based funding is the critical issue facing particularly our administration. There are thirty-seven indicators that have to be reached. The committee itself has reached only fourteen. We pick up twelve in the next two year, and we'll need thirty-seven. Anybody who reads the book will find that it will be a ... I'd like to use my influence, interest, vision, continuity in providing a policy for this institution and university with which we can go forward to the year 2000 and maintain what we consider at South Carolina State University our number one status. But the fund raising that I mentioned is always involved in that we do need additional funds, and that will come through the alumni, corporations, as well as fund raising.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Thank you, Doctor.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Next, we have Rhonda Parish. I believe she's out of the state. Mr. William Clinkscales. Mr. Clinkscales, raise your right hand please, sir. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. CLINKSCALES: Yes, sir, I do.
MR. CLINKSCALES - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Clinkscales, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir, I do not.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir, I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir, I do not.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir, I do not.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the gentleman? Mr. Inabinett.
EXAMINATION BY MR INABINETT:
Q: Mr. Clinkscales, I have the same question. Can you or will you address your projections for bringing in additional financing to the institution?
A: Yes, sir. Recently, within the last few years, I was appointed to the foundation board for the 4-H Youth Development Program with Clemson University to go out and seek dollars for individual scholarships who exceed and excel in the youth program in the State of South Carolina. Recently, we had begun to go out to industry, banks in order to secure that. I have a lot of experience with that particular foundation at this point. However, I probably will be getting a lot more experience. I can see utilizing that source, looking at a plan in terms of what we need at South Carolina State University, and also capitalizing on gaining dollars into the South Carolina State University. Also, I was very much involved in securing some dollars for our Palmetto Leadership Program through Clemson University, through the Kellog Foundation, which we worked in looking at developing local leadership throughout communities in South Carolina. The other thing I think that I would utilize, which I don't feel really has been tapped enough in South Carolina, since we are an agrarian state, is looking at getting through to the agriculture industry, which is very much a vital part of our state, and looking at not only the industry, but the farmers, the association throughout South Carolina and having them to contribute more in terms of doing research at the institution.
MR. INABINETT: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of this gentleman? Thank you, sir. Next, we have Mr. Ellis Rogers. Raise your right hand, please, Mr. Rogers. Do you swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. ROGERS: Yes, sir.
MR. ROGERS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir, I don't.
Q: Do you now hold any public positions of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir, I don't.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of this gentleman?
MR. PHILLIPS: Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Phillips.
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: Mr. Rogers, first of all, I'd like to ask you to tell me how you are going to qualify for two universities, the University of Coastal Carolina and also South Carolina State, and how are you going to politic for both those positions?
A: Well, sir, at the time that I applied, I really didn't ... I hadn't made a decision on which university I wanted to definitely apply for. And then when I finally made my final decision process, you know, the paperwork had already gone through the channels. I just said I would deal with it at the point ...
Q: Chairman, I think that we ought to have Mr. Rogers declare here today before we screen him out, qualified or not. He certainly has the opportunity to run for whatever he wants to, but I don't know how we are going to let him screen for two and recommend him to the General Assembly to be elected. I think he ought to make a decision here today since he is here.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: What do you think, Senator Wilson?
SENATOR WILSON: I defer to the chairman.
MR. ROGERS: If it's okay, I will make a decision.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Well, honestly, I think there is nothing to preclude this gentleman from running for all of them.
MR. PHILLIPS: I don't think there are either, but I don't know how we can screen him if the General Assembly says he's eligible ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Just as a matter of ...
MR. PHILLIPS: I think it is to his benefit to make a decision.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes, yes.
MR. PHILLIPS: That's what I'm trying to say.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: I think the success in any of them depends upon ...
MR. PHILLIPS: I think it's to his benefit. I really don't care, but I just wanted ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Seeking one lone position.
MR. PHILLIPS: Right.
A: I would like to qualify for the 10th Seat at South Carolina State, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: South Carolina State, and you would withdraw from ...
A: Yes, sir, Coastal.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: All right. Any other questions of this gentleman since that's settled? Thank you, sir. We move now to Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School, Ms. Clotilda Diggs. Raise your right hand, please, Ms. Diggs. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MS. DIGGS: I do.
MS. DIGGS - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, I do not.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, I will.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that present a conflict of interest because of service on the board?
A: No, I haven't.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, I do not.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the lady?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman, actually a statement. I am very honored and privileged to represent Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School. It's located in the senate district that I represent next to Airport High School, next to the Columbia Metropolitan Airport. And I want you to know in our community that we are very proud of the institution and we appreciate your service on the board. But generically, for the other persons who have applied, I want to thank you for your interest in the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School. It's a great institution that gives opportunities and fulfillment to a lot of young people in our state. And so I want to thank you for your interest, your service, and the other people who have applied.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions?
MR. PHILLIPS: I'd like to ask a question.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Mr. Phillips.
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: Ms. Diggs, as the incumbent out there serving on the board now, do you have any future plans for really setting and making a real decision to have a real curriculum at Wil Lou Gray?
A: Yes, I do. Yes, I do. I have served in the public schools where we work with programs to improve the offerings who are at risk students, and I hope to do that at the Wil Lou Gray School. At this time, we are working on improving the recruitment program and the diversity of the program so that the innovations that we set forth there will be inviting to those students to whom we've invited.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions?
SENATOR GLOVER: A comment.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Dr. Glover.
SENATOR GLOVER: To Representative Phillips and the other members of the committee, this is a life long educator out of Florence, South Carolina, and her prior service on the board has benefitted them and us. And I just wanted to say that, believe me, if there are curriculum innovations that the school needs, through this individual, I'm pretty sure we can get it.
A: Thank you, Senator.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Thank you, Doctor. Any other questions? Thank you, ma'am.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Next, we have Mr. Russell Hart. Raise your right hand, please, Mr. Hart. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. HART: I do.
MR. HART - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Hart, do you have any health related problems the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, will you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust if elected to the board that would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the gentleman? Mr. Phillips.
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: The same question, I'd ask Mr. Hart what his feelings are toward expanding the curriculum and the recruitment at Wil Lou Gray?
A: For the time, we have a committee appointed ... they haven't met yet ... to look into the possibility of how we may expand our recruitment. We have alumni people on there. We have board members. I think we should form and in cooperation with the Department of Juvenile Justice, maybe get some of the students just before they reach that point. Also, I think we should go into working with the schools, public schools, and take their kids that may show an aptitude of becoming at risk and getting those kids a little quicker before they get to the court system. And I feel that we need to take advantage of our JROTC program. It has been a tremendous help to us, and I've been on the board approximately two years. It's been a tremendous help to us out there in discipline and other things. I would like to see us go full scale with that, with all boarding students becoming JROTC. Not establish a military prep school, but operate it on the same basis because I think that teaches discipline and other things that we need there. And I still think ... also I think there are certain satellite programs that you have excellent instructors that can be available through satellite programs. It might be a little bit more economical for us to look into that possibility and get some excellent instruction into our curriculum there.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of Mr. Hart?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson.
SENATOR WILSON: For the benefit of the committee members, I hope you have an opportunity to visit Wil Lou Gray to see the JROTC Program. I had the opportunity to be there for the installation of the program, and I was particularly impressed. The full-time active duty military who have been assigned are just the most competent people I have seen, and certainly have instilled in the young people a great pride that would just warm your heart, and I think all of you would get a lot out of it to see the JROTC Program there at the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Thank you, sir. Any other questions? Thank you, Mr. Hart. Next on the list, we have Ms. Elizabeth Thrailkill. Raise your hand, please, Ms. Thrailkill. Do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MS. THRAILKILL: Yes, I do.
EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Ms. Thrailkill, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the lady?
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: I would like to ask ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Representative Phillips.
Q: ... the same question that I asked the others about the curriculum and recruitment in the future.
A: Yes, sir. First of all, we know that in order to run the kind of school that any of us seeks selection to today, you must have funds. And that's the basis, I believe. First thing in that vein is that we are good stewards of the money that the General Assembly allows us to spend. The second thing that we have done towards this to improve curriculum and student attendance is to establish a foundation. I'm very proud of that because I was very instrumental in having that done. It has qualified us for a number of extras. Two of my very close friends and I worked very hard. That's one of my goals. And we have a very active foundation going and fund raisers through that. They have just established scholarships, provided extra funding for such things as a wildcat lab, a computer lab, and other bonuses for the students so that not just the curriculum itself is the attractive pull there, but when you have students fifteen and older who are going to have to do more than just sit in the library. And this has really provided a number of things. Our Ropes course is well known in the state and used by schools and businesses. And we are also working towards receiving grants. We have some grant writing that brings in a number of programs. Our curriculum is diversified and is ever changing to meet these ever changing populations of students. As you know, our school started off being a school for farmers who could not attend during crop season. Well, that has moved out of existence and we do have a variety of people we serve. Not just young people, but older people are welcome to attend. So, it is a diversified population that the curriculum has to meet their needs and be diversified, and there is not always one curriculum for one student.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: All right, any other questions? Thank you, ma'am. Next, we have Ms. Jennalyn Dalrymple. Raise your hand, please, Ms. Dalrymple. Do you swear that the foregoing is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MS. DALRYMPLE: I do.
MS. DALRYMPLE - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Ma'am, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: None that would prevent me from serving in a full capacity, but I do have diabetes.
Q: You have my sympathy, yes, ma'am. I do, too. Concerning your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you now have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: Not that I know of.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of the lady? Mr. Phillips.
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: Ms. Dalrymple, tell us what you can do to enhance the Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School.
A: Well, I think that it is a wonderful institution, and I would like to bring my background there and see it expand in not only the educational phases that it has, but in the practical application of the world and opportunities that the world has to give to people, and I would like to see them receive the training that will equip them to be successful in the opportunity they choose.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Senator Wilson.
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman, I would like to note that I am familiar with Ms. Dalrymple and her service at the probate court in Richland County. She was somebody you could always count on to do an excellent job. And then, I'm very impressed by your enterprising efforts to then going to law school. And so, congratulations on your success.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Thank you, ma'am. Our next candidate is Dan Smith. Raise your right hand, please, Mr. Smith. Mr. Smith, do you swear the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. SMITH: I do.
MR. SMITH - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Smith, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: I am currently a member of the Election Commission for the City of Gaffney. If that was a violation, I would resign if elected to this position.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes, sir, I do believe that would be.
A: I would resign that seat.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions, gentlemen?
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: Mr. Smith ... I happen to know Mr. Smith, too, Mr. Wilson, by virtue of being from Gaffney. Mr. Smith has had a long tenure with the School District Number One. Again, a member of the board of trustees for numbers ... a number of years, serving as vice-chairman of that committee and other positions. Secretary and good financial background. What do you think that you could add to Wil Lou Gray as far as curriculum in the public sector into the opportunity school? Would you give us what kind of background and what you think you can add to Wil Lou Gray?
A: I have always championed the cause of education and trying to get all, encourage all young people to take advantage of the educational opportunities. I think this school is a very good school. It helps a lot of people in South Carolina. And I would like the opportunity to be a part of this process. I've had experience on school boards, as Olin said, the Representative said. And I've also worked with young people most of my life in various past businesses, the Boys Club of Cherokee County, which prides itself in offering opportunities to some of the less fortunate boys, and girls now. And I feel like that also my experience in administrative work and financial work, I would be able to be a contributing member as far as using the resources of Wil Lou Gray to the advantage of the students in getting the most out of our dollars. I've always prided myself in trying to stay abreast of the financial situation in any committee or any group that I serve, and I have served as treasurer of several organizations, including the Boys Club, Salvation Army, Advisory Board. I also promote the Terrific Kids program which offer opportunities for students who were not the top students in their class to gain some recognition. I feel that some of my ideas along that line would be beneficial to the students.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Thank you, Mr. Smith. Our last candidate is Mr. Robert Moeller. Raise your hand, please, sir. Do swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth so help you God?
MR. MOELLER: I do.
MR. MOELLER - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Mr. Moeller, do you have any health related problems that the screening committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No, sir.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes, sir.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No, sir.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: No, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any questions of Mr. Moeller?
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Wilson.
EXAMINATION BY SENATOR WILSON:
Q: Again, I'm familiar with the candidate as being a citizen of the Midlands, and we're very proud of his service on the Board of School District Two of Richland County, certainly one of the most dynamic school districts in South Carolina. And that you've served and survived for nearly ten years is certainly a tribute to your service. And I just want to thank you for what you've done for our community.
A: Thank you, sir.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of this gentleman? Representative. Phillips.
MR. PHILLIPS: Thank you, sir.
EXAMINATION BY MR. PHILLIPS:
Q: Did you once work for Wil Lou Gray?
A: Yes, sir. Five years, sir.
Q: Five years of employment. What was your position at Wil Lou Gray?
A: I was in the vocational education department as head of the carpentry shop, sir.
Q: I guess while you were there, you have seen things that needed to be done that you couldn't do as a worker, but as a candidate for the board, did you see anything while you were there that you could improve on that you could expand on here this morning?
A: I appreciate the question. First of all, I came speaking with no one upon applying. I wanted to approach Senator Wilson. I wanted to approach Senator Giese. I came as an individual. I've been around youth all my life. My wife and I did not have a child. We have an adopted son. I've had little league baseball, all the way to being the chairman of the school board. You'll notice on my vitae, most times I was re-elected to what I was doing. I think that shows credibility. What can be done at Wil Lou Gray. First of all, Senator Wilson's wife and family are super participants in the foundation. The signs that you saw around town, the carpentry shop built, Mr. George Smith does an excellent job. I view youth today ... I just read a publication yesterday, and being retired gives me time to read and to study and to dedicate. I don't want to be put out to pasture. I guess that's why I'm here this morning. But with Wil Lou Gray, I'm going to use a two phrase statement, which is tech-prep. Those of you in education are familiar with tech-prep. Tech-prep, as we see at Midlands Tech today with four-year college graduates, and I don't want to put down history or music or such, but they have four-year diplomas, a bachelor degree, but they don't have a job. They go to Midlands Tech and they come away with a job. Bose is coming to town, Cooper in Tamper, Square D. I don't want to leave anyone out. But my view of Wil Lou Gray is, this is a type of student that if you give them a textbook, if you give them a xerox copy with a board or with a tool or with a paint brush, there are artists out there, Senator Wilson, that I have seen that absolutely ... I hate to use a cliche, but blows your mind. But there art work is unreal. One youngster went directly to Atlanta. I have a student, one of my students that's going to a furniture manufacturing school. I couldn't be prouder of him. His father is a minister in Chester. These children are not bad. These children ... where do we get these children? We should go, being on the school board, we should go to the various districts, and we should write for permission to come and get, and appear before the board ... and as has happened here this morning, and I hope I'm not guilty, is be brief, but remind people that Wil Lou Gray is there, because Miss Wil Lou Gray, bless her heart, lived almost to the century mark, and she's still been going a good while. So let's go before these boards, get the message out. Give to the juvenile agencies, and finally, to me, just expand the tech-prep. Let the students get their hands on the welding machine. Let them get their hands on the saws. Let them get their hands on the automobile. Let them have a hobby shop. They have animals. They have a small collection of pet type animals. But enhance and embellish. There is nothing like ... I have tomato plants out and I was worried about them the last three days, about my tomato plants, whether the frost got them or not. So without making this last person just keep us here forever, I thank you all and have a good day.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Thank you.
A: Thank you.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: That concludes the testimony from our candidates. Senator Glover.
SENATOR GLOVER: Mr. Chairman, I would like to ask before we adjourn to have Mr. Warren Darby remain a few minutes and ask for an executive session with the screening committee, please.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Senator Glover moves to go into executive session with the gentleman mentioned. All in favor say aye; opposing, no. The ayes have it. Would you be excused please, all of you? You'll be notified soon as to your disposition.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Do I hear a motion that we approve of all the candidates with an admonition of Mr. Darby for his letter.
MR. PHILLIPS: Mr. Chairman, I would like to clarify. Are you saying all candidates or are you saying for all seats.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: All candidates.
MR. PHILLIPS: In other words, you are saying it's all candidates screened here today are qualified for seat pledges from this point on? Is that what you said?
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Correct. That we approve of all candidates that we screened today.
MR. PHILLIPS: Right.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: In approving Mr. Darby, we admonished him for his earlier letter.
MR. PHILLIPS: That this doesn't free him to seek support?
SENATOR WILSON: Yes.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes.
SENATOR GLOVER: What about Ms. Rhonda Parish?
SENATOR WILSON: And I was going to ask ... I was going to ask that we consider that. That due to her employment, I think it may be difficult for her to get to a committee meeting. If you looked at her background, she's the deputy general counsel of Flagstar in Spartanburg, which is one of the largest corporations in South Carolina.
CHAIRMAN INABINETT: Who is that?
SENATOR WILSON: So it's not surprising.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: She tendered her statement, and the only thing missing is our questions of her, and I do not feel that they would be anything conclusive other than affirmative.
SENATOR WILSON: Well, she had a very impressive background.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Correct.
MR. INABINETT: The only concern, Mr. Chairman, I would have is will we be setting a precedent that might come back to haunt us in the future.
SENATOR WILSON: I would hope that ... it's my view that if there were a question that appeared on the face of what had been submitted to us, that in fact, this wouldn't be a precedent, that we would be able to request people to come in the future. But in looking at her background information, the SLED report, and looking at the report from the Clerk of Court, and then looking at her application and her statement of purpose, everything was very impressive, very positive, and no questions could arise.
SENATOR GLOVER: I'm sorry, but I have the same concern, I think, that Representative Inabinett does with what we are about to do, and that is to ask for these ... that we start to submit guidelines to all of our candidates. I do have problems with them making it quite all right to appear or not to appear. Soon we will have no one. They would all take the opinion that if I can pass screening without coming, why come.
MR. INABINETT: Correct.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Correct.
SENATOR GLOVER: So I would like to move that we approve all of the others with the exception ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Of her?
SENATOR GLOVER: Uh-huh (affirmative response). And I'll leave it up to the chair to determine whether he would like to make arrangements for her to be screened at a later date. But at this time, I would not want to approve her.
SENATOR WILSON: Mr. Chairman, could a later date be arranged?
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: I suppose it could, yes. Do we hold up all these candidates for her?
SENATOR GLOVER: No. Well, I'll just make my motion then. I move that we approve all of the candidates with the exception of Ms. Rhonda Parish who was not present.
MR. INABINETT: Second the motion.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: With the stipulation about ...
SENATOR GLOVER: With ... yes. Yes, that was an earlier motion, yes. With the stipulations to the admonishment to Mr. Darby.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Is the motion clear to everyone?
SENATOR WILSON: And with the understanding that Ms. Parish will be invited to appear for screening if it can be arranged.
SENATOR GLOVER: Well, I didn't put that in the motion, but like I said, I'll leave that to the chair. That he'll make that decision. My motion is to approve all of the candidates with the exception of Ms. Rhonda Parish who was not present, and a letter of admonishment to Mr. Warren Darby for his previous letter.
MR. INABINETT: I still second the motion.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Motion made by Senator Glover, second by Mr. Inabinett. All in favor say aye. Opposed, no. The ayes have it. Now should we set a date for election or should we check first with the invitation committee and so forth to see about any conflicts?
MR. PHILLIPS: There's a possibility we are having some more judges in Lexington this year. The three additional judges have been created in the budget if it passes the Senate.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: It's getting kind of late.
MR. PHILLIPS: Well, I've been wondering about the time limit.
SENATOR WILSON: Is it too late to include them in the current crop of judicial elections?
MR. INABINETT: That won't give them a whole lot of time.
SENATOR WILSON: I only asked that for purposes of inquiry. Certainly not ...
MR. PHILLIPS: The only other thing that we have is the three new family court and three new circuits that's being created in the budget bill. That's all I know of, isn't it?
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Do we have a joint session any time in the next three weeks?
MR. PHILLIPS: I'm not familiar with any.
SENATOR WILSON: I believe we should leave it to the chairman to get with the chairman of both invitation committees and determine when it could be done in an expeditious fashion.
MR. PHILLIPS: Suits me. Let the chairman set the resolution and do it whenever he sees fit. Mr. Chairman, Ms. Parish, is that the name?
SENATOR WILSON: Yes, Ms. Parish.
MR. PHILLIPS: There is a motion to allow her to extend time for her to come and be screened? Was that ...
MS. GLOVER: No, there was not ...
SENATOR WILSON: I would like to move that she be invited for screening to be set up as soon as possible by Chairman Stoddard.
MS. FLOYD: I've talked with her and she says she's available any time next week. She's just out of town in a conference.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: We'll make contact with her and try and get her here next week.
MR. INABINETT: Mr. Chairman, the only thing I'm again concerned about is the precedent we are setting. Once we do it ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: We have met later to hear from some absentees. We have done that before.
MR. INABINETT: Okay, I wasn't aware of that.
SENATOR WILSON: And I think that maybe ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: In other words, if we don't do it, we'll be ridiculed; and if we do do it, we'll be ridiculed. Yes.
MR. INABINETT: I have no problem.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Anything further?
MR. PHILLIPS: I need to make my motion now. That in the future, that when a person signs for any board or commissions that we have the jurisdiction over, that we make a set of guidelines and we might do it at any time or leave it up to you to draft something to give to them at that time so we don't have to face this again.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Rephrase your motion to where in the packet that we send, when they request ...
MR. PHILLIPS: Right.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: ... that we include the rules and regulations ...
MR. PHILLIPS: That's right.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: ... as far as ethics is concerned.
MR. PHILLIPS: And underline ... if you would, underline, please do not solicit our ...
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Do you further make a motion that we adjourn?
MR. PHILLIPS: I do so.
SENATOR WILSON: Seconded.
WEDNESDAY - April 9, 1997
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: The meeting is called to order. Ms. Parish, we have Senator Bryan on my right, Representative Littlejohn near you, Representative Inabinett near me, and I'm Representative Stoddard. Would you raise your right hand, Ms. Parish. Do you swear that the foregoing testimony is the truth, nothing but the truth, so help you God?
MS. PARISH: I do.
MS. PARISH - EXAMINATION BY CHAIRMAN STODDARD:
Q: Do you have any health related problems that the Screening Committee should be made aware of that would prevent you from serving on the board in a full capacity?
A: No.
Q: Considering your present occupation and other activities, would you be able to attend board meetings on a regular basis?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you have any interests, professionally or personally, that would present a conflict of interest because of your service on the board?
A: No.
Q: Do you now hold any public position of honor or trust that if elected to the board would cause you to violate the dual office holding clause of the Constitution?
A: I do no.
Q: Any questions of the lady?
EXAMINATION BY MR. INABINETT:
Q: Ms. Parish, I did ask each of the other candidates a question with reference to their ability to bring in additional financial gain or assistance to the colleges and universities should they be appointed to the board of trustees. Can you give us some information or idea of your corporate or other contacts that would enable you to help the institution financially?
A: Sure. As you know from reading the bio that was sent in, I am in business. I'm a corporate attorney. We've all read a lot about the corporation I work for, that it has financial troubles. We are doing our best right now to get our debt restructured and be a more responsible corporate citizen. So, I would let you know that both within the corporation for which I work and with other corporate contacts that I have, business contacts throughout the state and the country, I would commit to trying to help raise funds for the university in that way.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions of the lady?
MR. BRYAN: Just a comment, Mr. Chairman.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Yes, Senator Bryan.
MR. BRYAN: You were born in Clinton, Arkansas.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Well, that's a good place to be a long way from.
MR. LITTLEJOHN: We won't hold that against you.
EXAMINATION BY MR. LITTLEJOHN:
Q: I just have one overall question, it's a big question. Why do really want to serve? What makes you feel like you can do the job?
A: Well, I'm glad you asked me that question. As I've already told you in written materials, I have a real interest in education. I came from a family of teachers. And having gone into the business world, I see every day the importance of education and the importance of higher education. Now that I've lived in South Carolina for two years, South Carolina is my home, and want to give back to the State of South Carolina, and I think a great way to do this is to serve on the board of higher education.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Any other questions? Do I hear a motion.
MR. INABINETT: So move.
CHAIRMAN STODDARD: Representative Curtis moves and seconded by Senator Bryan that we find the lady qualified to seek Seat 10, an at large seat on the South Carolina State University board. All in favor say aye, opposed no. The ayes have it. Thank you, ma'am.
MS. PARISH: Thank you.
The Committee to Screen Candidates for Boards of Trustees of State Colleges and Universities finds the following candidates for Boards of Trustees qualified. Background reports from the State Law Enforcement Division show no felony charges against any of the candidates.
Coastal Carolina University (8 Seats)
Mr. Delan Stevens (Conway) Seat 2, 1st Congressional District
Dr. James F. Kane (Columbia) Seat 4, 2nd Congressional District
Mr. William L. Lyles, Jr. (Anderson) Seat 6, 3rd Congressional District
Mr. Keith S. Smith (Greer) Seat 8, 4th Congressional District
Mr. Robert D. Brown (Camden) Seat 10, 5th Congressional District
Mrs. Cathy Harvin (Summerton) Seat 12, 6th Congressional District
Mr. Dean Hudson (Conway) Seat 14 at-large
Mr. Joseph O. Burroughs, Jr (Conway) Seat 15 at-large
Mr. J. Egerton Burroughs (Surfside Beach) Seat 15 at-large
Mr. Richard Harrington (Myrtle Beach) Seat 15 at-large
South Carolina State University(4 Seats)
Dr. James W. Sanders (Gaffney) Seat 5, 5th Congressional District
Ms. Jannette Henry (Winnsboro) Seat 5, 5th Congressional District
Mr. Edwin Givens (Charleston) Seat 6, 6th Congressional District
Ms. Angela G. Brown (Columbia) Seat 6, 6th Congressional District
Mr. Stephon Edwards (Orangeburg) Seat 8 at-large
Mr. Jim Furtick (Orangeburg) Seat 8 at large
Mr. Warren Darby (Columbia) Seat 8 at-large
Mrs. Theresa Counts-Davis (W. Columbia) Seat 8 at-large
Mr. J. D. Hydrick (Orangeburg) Seat 8 at-large
Dr. James A. Boykin (Lancaster) Seat 10 at-large
Mr. William Clinkscales (Clemson) Seat 10 at-large
Mr. Ellis Rogers (Cheraw) Seat 10 at-large
Ms. Rhonda Parish (Spartanburg) Seat 10 at-large
Wil Lou Gray Opportunity School (4 Seats)
Ms. Clotilda D. Diggs (Florence) at-large
Mr. Russell Hart (Laurens) at-large
Ms. Elizabeth Thrailkill (Fort Lawn) at-large
Ms. Jennalyn Dalrymple (Blythewood) at-large
Mr. Dan Smith (Gaffney) at-large
Mr. Robert Moeller (Columbia) at-large
Respectfully submitted,
/s/Rep. Eugene C. Stoddard, Chm. /s/Senator Addison Wilson, V-Chm.
/s/Rep. Curtis B. Inabinett, Sec. /s/Senator Warren K. Giese
/s/Rep. Lanny F. Littlejohn /s/Senator Maggie W. Glover
/s/Rep. Olin Phillips /s/Senator James E. Bryan, Jr.
(On motion of Senator WILSON, with unanimous consent, ordered printed in the Journal.)
At 11:15 A.M., on motion of Senator WILSON, the Senate adjourned to meet next Tuesday, April 15, 1997, at 12:00 Noon.
This web page was last updated on Monday, June 29, 2009 at 10:47 A.M.