Columbia Urban League President James McLawhorn Junior will be the commencement speaker during the 2014 College of Charleston Winter Graduation Ceremony on December 13, 2014. The College of Charleston will also present an honorary degree to current South Carolina Lieutenant Governor John Yancy McGill during the ceremony.
James McLawhorn Junior
Over 350 students are expected to receive their degrees during the ceremony.
McLawhorn has been the president and chief executive officer of the Columbia Urban League since 1979. He is recognized nationally as a leader in race and community relations and has appeared in hundreds of articles, news, and public affairs programs addressing topics such as race and social policy.
Under his visionary leadership, the Columbia Urban League has partnered with various organizations and entities to promote social justice, civil rights, and equal opportunities. In addition to partnering with the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office and churches, he has supported and worked with the Drug Court to generate awareness about the program and encourage collaboration.
McLawhorn is an Eagle Scout and has been awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest honor. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from North Carolina A&T State University, a master’s degree in city and regional planning from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Miami.
McGill was sworn in as Lt. Governor of South Carolina on June 18, 2014. Prior to becoming Lt. Governor, he was a member of the South Carolina Senate for 25 years.
McGill attended both The Citadel and Francis Marion University. He is currently a Residential Homebuilder and Real Estate Broker.
The 2014 College of Charleston Winter Commencement Ceremony will be held in TD arena starting at 2 p.m.
