Chancellor Panu Selected for “12 Black Leaders to Know in South Carolina” 

USCB Chancellor Al M. Panu has been selected as one of the “12 Black Leaders to Know in South Carolina” by The Post and Courier media company. His career as a scholar and administrator spans more than 30 years.

Dr. Panu has led USCB since 2015, focusing on expanding world-class higher education opportunities in the Lowcountry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, and his master’s and doctorate in chemistry at the University of Alabama and the University of Georgia.

"These 12 leaders represent the best of South Carolina — individuals who are working tirelessly to create positive change in their communities," said Post and Courier senior editor Adam Parker. "Their stories reflect both the progress we've made and the work that still lies ahead in building a more equitable future for all South Carolinians."

Dr. Panu is being recognized for growing USCB’s enrollment and academic programs to meet regional needs, building strong ties between the university and the community, and focusing on student success. The Post and Courier relies on community recommendations to identify 12 people to feature in the statewide “12 Black Leaders to Know” journalism project, which is in its fifth year and includes print and video interviews of each honoree.

The Post and Courier is South Carolina’s largest newspaper and one of the oldest continuously operating newspapers in the United States. It is the main newspaper of Charleston and publishes regional editions in Columbia, Beaufort County, Greenville and Myrtle Beach.

Honorees will be celebrated at a recognition luncheon on Friday, Feb. 21, at the Francis Marion Hotel in Charleston. Dr. Henry Tisdale, former president of Claflin University, will deliver the keynote address.

To purchase tickets to the luncheon, visit postandcourier.com/12BlackLeaders.

 

- USCB -

CW •  2/17/2025