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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Greenville, South Carolina] -The Joseph Vaughn Oratorical Competition, hosted by The Alpha Greenville Foundation will take place on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Wade Hampton High School. This year’s theme, “Building Bridges: Fostering Unity in a Divided World,” challenges students to explore the power of dialogue, connection, and collaboration in overcoming societal divisions.
This prestigious event, named in honor of Joseph Vaughn, Furman University’s first African American undergraduate student, provides a platform for young orators to inspire change through words. Vaughn’s legacy as a trailblazer, scholar, and advocate for equality continues to guide meaningful conversations about unity and progress.
On February 2, 1965, Joseph Vaughn made history as the first African American undergraduate student to enroll at Furman University, paving the way for diversity and inclusion in higher education. As a dedicated English major, he excelled academically, served as head cheerleader, led campus forums, and volunteered in service initiatives. Vaughn later earned graduate degrees from the University of South Carolina and the University of Georgia and dedicated his career to Greenville County Schools. He served as president of the South Carolina Education Association for nearly a decade, championing equality and educational excellence. His lifelong commitment to education, justice, and community service remains a guiding light for those striving to build bridges in today’s world.
Eight outstanding students from across the Upstate will take the stage to deliver powerful speeches reflecting on this year’s theme:
Allyson Tan – JL Mann High School, 9th Grade
Cayden Grant – JF Byrnes High School, 12th Grade
Parris Bouie – JF Byrnes High School, 12th Grade
Benjamin Luines – Legacy Early College Charter, 12th Grade
Naylah Campechano – Wade Hampton High School, 10th Grade
Jassdeep Kaur – JL Mann High School, 10th Grade
Ngmenviel Kuuseg – SC Governor’s School, 11th Grade
Braeydon Carson – Dorman High School, 10th Grade
A distinguished panel of leaders, educators, and professionals will evaluate the competitors and bring a wealth of experience to the event:
Bro. Ken Peterson – Sr. Director of Human Resources & Chief Diversity Officer, ScanSource, Inc.
Myra Morant - HR Strategic Partner at Bon Secours St. Francis Health System
Tiffany Santagati – Vice President of Operations, Greenville Housing Fund
Nathalie Morgan – Chair of the Board, Hispanic Alliance; Board Member, Upstate Fatherhood Coalition
Scottie Hunter – Morning News Anchor, Fox Carolina
Damon Qualls – Executive Director, BOLD Leadership Network
This event is made possible by the dedication of our sponsors, judges, and participants, whose unwavering commitment to excellence and progress ensures that Vaughn’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
For further details, visit the Alpha Phi Alpha Greenville Foundation website at www.alphagreenville.org./
For media inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Carlos Grant
Alpha Phi Alpha Greenville Foundation
P.O. Box 5263 | Greenville, SC 29606-9998
(803) 322-8462 | contact@alphagreenville.org
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