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Letter from the President

Welcome to the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities!

Letter from the President

For 25 years, this amazing public high school has transformed the lives of young emerging artists from across South Carolina through our residential high school and summer programs. As the Governor’s School’s president, I am privileged to see this transformation first-hand, year-after-year as many of our state’s artistically talented students arrive eager and passionate. They are shaped by their team of mentors, supportive peers and unique experiences and they leave prepared for what lies ahead with a better understanding of who they are as individuals and artists. 

We call this The Govie Experience—a fully-immersive artistic and academic endeavor. Living on campus with peers with similar aspirations allows students to focus on their studies and their art. Spending all afternoon, and some evenings, five days a week with established, practicing artists in their chosen area provides the time young artists need to truly explore, practice, and refine their skills. Gaining valuable insights and diverse perspectives, not only from their master teachers but also from world-renowned guest artists, inspires students and helps them form their own artistic voice or identity. 

What students learn in the classroom and in the studio is woven together through an intense study in the humanities, where we seek answers to three essential questions: Who are we as artists? Why do we do what we do? And why do the arts have value for society?  The continuous exploration of these questions, among other important inquiries, are critical to the growth of our students and help reveal the bigger picture of how they develop during their time in residence.  

While our pre-professional arts training is second to none, the Governor’s School also offers a challenging academic program that has been recognized by The Washington PostU.S. News and World ReportThe Daily Beast, and Niche. Thanks to our exceptional faculty, staff, and strong academic support services, we have a 100 percent graduation rate, and our ACT and SAT scores consistently rank above state and national averages. Each year, our graduates enroll in some of the most prestigious collegiate and conservatory programs throughout our state and nation, as they move into their next phase of study, well-equipped for all that lies ahead.

If you’re a parent considering our residential high school program, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can set your child on a path to thrive in whatever profession they choose. We know that allowing teens to leave home two or three years before college is a very hard choice, but I strongly believe you will find that the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.  You will be amazed at what your student is capable of achieving when given the right environment, resources, and our wrap-around student services.  It is through our special partnership with families that parents witness the great transformation of their sons and daughters, just as I do every year.

For students considering the Governor’s School, if you are passionate, self-motivated, open-minded and willing to give it your all, you will excel here. You will be challenged and pushed to your perceived limits, but you will grow and accomplish so much more than you can imagine. You will make lifelong friends and join a nationwide network of Govies who have established themselves as successful professionals throughout the globe.

I encourage you to spend some time on our website to explore our program offerings, read about our alumni achievements and learn more about our student life experiences. I also invite you to join us on campus for a tour and attend an upcoming student performance or event. 

Thank you for considering the SC Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities! We hope to see you soon!

Sincerely,

Dr. Cedric Adderley, President
SC Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities