Being ignored never feels good, especially when you're standing right next to the person annoying you. Blocks away from the largest research university in South Carolina, Gov. Nikki Haley neglected to mention the role and needs of higher education in any meaningful way.
She did, however, congratulate USC and Clemson on their successful football teams, so at least we have that.
It’s unnerving, and downright scary, to realize your own governor doesn’t take the time or effort to recognize the impact higher education has made across South Carolina. State funding for higher education has decreased tremendously across the board over the last few years, and many universities struggle to keep the lights on, let alone provide aid for disadvantaged students.
To Haley’s credit, she alluded that education is key in the state. Yes, she talked about vague K-12 initiatives she wants put into place, but she made no mention of what happens after graduation. No, college isn’t for everyone, but at the very least she should acknowledge the possibility, as well as its potential for keeping intelligent, innovative students in state to better South Carolina’s community and economy. Without the state’s support, such a task is becoming increasingly difficult.
Haley avoided the nitty-gritty and chose to focus on the ambiguous and superficial. By making vague comments such as, “Having a well-educated workforce is a real factor in attracting more businesses,” and, “There’s no surer path out of poverty ... than having a good education,” Haley showcased her lack of understanding of the problems higher education in South Carolina faces.
It’s great Haley recognizes South Carolina knows how to play football, but maybe she should brush up on her academics, too.