Columbia, S.C., August 12, 2025
News Summary
In a ceremony at the State House, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster awarded Dr. Susan Elkins the prestigious Order of the Palmetto, recognizing her contributions to education and community in South Carolina. As the founding chancellor of Palmetto College, Dr. Elkins has dedicated her career to improving educational access and opportunities for students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The event was attended amidst changing weather conditions, highlighting the significance of both the award and the community’s ongoing challenges.
Columbia, S.C. – Governor McMaster Honors Dr. Susan Elkins with Order of the Palmetto
On Monday, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster awarded the esteemed Order of the Palmetto to Dr. Susan Elkins during a ceremony at the State House at 2 p.m. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and the community.
Dr. Elkins, the founding chancellor of Palmetto College at the University of South Carolina, has dedicated her career to enhancing educational access and opportunities for students. Her upbringing in rural Tennessee shaped her passion for education, as she was the first person in her family to attend college.
After graduating from Tennessee Tech University, Dr. Elkins served as an 8th-grade math teacher for a decade. Following her teaching career, Elkins focused on assisting disadvantaged high school students, helping them successfully navigate graduation and career development programs for three years before launching Palmetto College in 2013. This innovative program provides access to two-year campuses and online bachelor’s degree completion options for students attending the University of South Carolina.
The ceremony took place under partly cloudy skies as a low-pressure system threatened to bring unsettled weather to the Columbia area. Residents are currently experiencing highs of 81°F, with showers and thunderstorms predicted to continue into the evening. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a marginal risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe storms in the far eastern Midlands, although Columbia may only see isolated thunderstorms.
Weather forecasts predict overnight lows dipping to the low to mid-50s, with potential rain continuing into Friday morning. A winter weather advisory is in effect for parts of the Midlands due to the forecast of snow and ice in Kershaw and Lee counties starting Wednesday morning. Previous sporadic snow events in the area make this the third snowstorm of 2025, with substantial accumulations reported earlier in the year.
Following the unsettled weather pattern, forecasters anticipate a warming trend and drier conditions for early next week, with temperatures expected to rise above normal, reaching the mid-70s to low-80s.
Background on Dr. Susan Elkins
Dr. Elkins’ remarkable journey began in a small community in rural Tennessee, where she became the first in her family to attain a college education. Her experience as an educator and commitment to helping at-risk students laid the groundwork for her to create opportunities within higher education, leading to the establishment of Palmetto College.
The program was designed to cater to adult learners and those needing flexibility in pursuing higher education amid various responsibilities. Since its founding, Palmetto College has expanded access to degree programs for thousands of South Carolinians.
The Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor awarded by the state, is presented to individuals for their exemplary contributions to the state, especially in leadership and service. The recognition is a testament to Dr. Elkins’ influence and commitment in shaping the future of education in South Carolina.
Current Weather Conditions and Future Forecast
The weather in Columbia is currently characterized by high humidity, with afternoon temperatures nearing 81°F this Monday. As the day progresses, the region should prepare for showers and thunderstorms, with slightly cooler temperatures in the lower to mid-70s during the day. Notably, the forecast indicates a potential drop in temperatures overnight, with lows approaching 19°F in some areas.
As the storm system moves in, conditions are expected to improve by the weekend, leading to drier weather and warmer temperatures early next week.
Key Takeaways from the Ceremony
- Dr. Susan Elkins honored with the Order of the Palmetto.
- Founding chancellor of Palmetto College at USC.
- Significant contributions to education in South Carolina.
FAQ
What is the Order of the Palmetto?
The Order of the Palmetto is the highest civilian honor awarded in South Carolina, recognizing individuals for their significant contributions to the state and community.
What role does Dr. Susan Elkins hold at the University of South Carolina?
Dr. Susan Elkins is the founding chancellor of Palmetto College at the University of South Carolina.
What is the current weather forecast for Columbia, S.C.?
The current weather is predicted to be 81°F with showers and thunderstorms expected overnight, along with a winter weather advisory for some areas in the Midlands.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Weather Impact Showers Returns
- KOMU: Forecast Showers End Today
- The State: Weather News
- Google Search: Order of the Palmetto
- WIS TV: First Alert Weather Day
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
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