SC State Alumni Newsletter — Keeping the Legacy Alive
“So Hard!”
6 July 2026 • Vol. 11
🐾 Bulldog Nation
So Hard… Welcome to July, Bulldog Nation
Here we are, seven months into 2026, and things are moving right along. The year is not slowing down, and neither is The Bulldog Wire. As always, we continue to stay connected, tell our stories, celebrate our people, and uplift the Bulldog bond that still means so much to so many of us.
From a personal standpoint, the Fourth of July used to be one of those days I really looked forward to. We would put on a big fireworks display in the backyard and invite the neighbors, family, and friends. It became something people expected — a day full of food, laughter, fellowship, and celebration.
But over time, I have started to see the day differently.
I recently saw a statement that said “ULIE,” and it made me pause. Since Colin Kaepernick took a knee, I have looked at the flag through a different lens. And as I continue to see how some Americans display and use the flag, I have found myself wrestling with what it represents to me now. In many ways, I am beginning to see it as a symbol that does not always speak to the full truth of our experience.
So this year, I did not celebrate the day the way I once did. Instead, I spent time at a friend’s 60th birthday party — and honestly, I enjoyed that more than I believe I would have enjoyed celebrating something I am seeing more clearly every day.
“Many of us know what it feels like to love this country, serve this country, build in this country, contribute to this country — and still not be treated the way we should be treated. That is a hard truth, but it is a truth worth acknowledging.”
That being said, we cannot allow disappointment to stop us from building. We cannot allow frustration to keep us from showing up for one another. We have to keep moving, keep loving, keep supporting, and keep creating spaces where we can celebrate who we are.
So let’s continue uplifting one another and make the rest of our lives the best of our lives.
And speaking of celebration, fellowship, and Bulldog pride — we have something special for Bulldog Nation!
Win a $1,400 VIP Suite Experience at the Orange Blossom Classic in Miami! Our South Carolina State Bulldogs will take on the FAMU Rattlers, and 7 lucky winners will get to experience the game in true VIP style.
This is more than just a football game. This is a Bulldog Nation moment. This is a chance to be in Miami, surrounded by HBCU pride, energy, tradition, and the kind of atmosphere that reminds us why our culture, our schools, and our legacy matter.
If you love Bulldog football, HBCU culture, and unforgettable experiences, this is one you do not want to miss. Let’s show up, support our Bulldogs, and keep the spirit of South Carolina State University alive and strong.
Because no matter where life has taken us, the Bulldog bond remains real. 🐾
🏆 The Bulldog Wire Presents
Bulldog Nation… Are You Ready?
Win a $1,400 VIP Suite Experience at the Orange Blossom Classic in Miami! SCSU Bulldogs take on the FAMU Rattlers — and 7 winners get the suite life.
SC State Bulldogs vs. FAMU Rattlers
Hard Rock Stadium • September 6, 2026
7
Winners
2
Passes Each
$1,400
Value
Each winner receives two Suite Access Passes with food and beverages included — plus a premium game-day view of SCSU vs FAMU from the suite. Winners will be selected LIVE on Facebook on July 31, 2026.
Entry is $100 (must be 21+). Only 7 winners. 14 suite seats. Be part of one of the most exciting HBCU football weekends of 2026.
This week’s featured interview shines a light on Simone Spigner — a proud Bulldog and the 2025 USTA Eastern Tennis Woman of the Year. Her journey after SC State is a powerful testament to dedication, excellence, and the lasting impact of a Bulldog education.
These conversations remind us that while our paths may differ after leaving Orangeburg, the Bulldog bond remains strong. Thank you for continuing to support The Bulldog Wire. Forever To Thee.
Learn more about Simone’s recognition as USTA Eastern Tennis Woman of the Year, and don’t miss her exclusive Bulldog Wire interview.
Every Bulldog has a story. For Terrance “Tuck” Tucker, his story is one of perseverance, purpose, and a deep commitment to reaching back for the next generation.
The T.U.C.K Project is more than an organization. It is a movement built around support, mentorship, accountability, and hope — equipping and empowering youth with the confidence, knowledge, and integrity needed to grow, lead, and become self-sufficient contributors in their communities.
Raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Terrance Tucker understood early that young people should never be limited by their environment, their circumstances, or what others believe they can become. His journey was not perfect, and that is what makes it powerful.
That road eventually led him to South Carolina State University, where he continued to grow not only as a student, but as a man with purpose. SC State helped shape his confidence, sharpen his leadership, and strengthen the foundation that would one day become part of his life’s work.
“Legacy is not only about what you achieve for yourself. It is about how you use your story to serve others.”
In our exclusive Bulldog Wire interview, we get a closer look at the man behind the mission. This conversation is about the journey, the lessons, the struggle, the growth, and the responsibility that comes with making it through — and then turning around to help somebody else.
Through The T.U.C.K Project, Tuck is helping young men understand they are not forgotten or overlooked. The organization focuses on mentorship, leadership development, career readiness, civic engagement, and building a strong network of support so that young people do not fall through the cracks.
That is what Bulldog Legacy looks like. Terrance “Tuck” Tucker represents the heart of SC State — resilience, service, leadership, and love for community. His legacy is something we build every day through the lives we touch.
Dr. Angelo Torres Soldevila Named Director of Recruiting
The Bulldog Wire joins Bulldog Nation in extending a warm and enthusiastic welcome to Dr. Angelo Torres Soldevila, the new Director of Recruiting for the reigning 2025 HBCU National Champion South Carolina State Bulldogs.
As the Bulldogs continue to build on a championship standard, the addition of Dr. Angelo brings another strong voice, leader, and relationship-builder into the program. Recruiting is more than finding talent — it is about building trust, creating connections, understanding young men and their families, and helping shape the future of a program rooted in pride, discipline, and tradition.
Dr. Angelo arrives with passion, leadership, and a clear commitment to helping South Carolina State continue attracting student-athletes who understand what it means to wear the Bulldog name across their chest.
“At SC State, the standard has always been bigger than the scoreboard. It is about excellence on the field, growth off the field, and carrying forward the legacy of those who came before.”
With Dr. Angelo joining the staff, the future continues to look bright for Bulldog football.
The standard remains the standard. Welcome to Bulldog Nation, Dr. Angelo! 🐾
📋 Alumni Association
SCSUNAA Quarterly General Body Meeting
📅 Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM EST
📍 Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, Norfolk, VA
💻 Also available via Microsoft Teams
🔑 Meeting ID: 297 372 223 746 230
🔐 Passcode: kj9m32gf
Can’t attend in-person? No problem — click the link to join online. Questions? Email [email protected]
Not College Material: My Journey from Janitor to Scholar
Mr. Terrance L. Tucker
Written by our very own featured Bulldog, Terrance “Tuck” Tucker shares his remarkable journey from janitor to scholar — a story of perseverance, self-belief, and the transformative power of education. A must-read for anyone who has ever been told they were not enough. Iron sharpens iron, Bulldogs.
Bulldog Wire Round-Up at Santee State Park — Are You In?
We’re exploring a Friday pre-game Round-Up at Santee State Park — families welcome, fun on the lake, all alumni orgs, coaches & leadership represented as a membership drive AND fundraising opportunity. We need your input!
Support South Carolina State University through the Big Bulldog Give 2026! Every dollar makes a difference. Come together as Bulldog Nation and show our pride through giving. Help us reach our goal — click and donate today!
President Conyers has set audacious goals and we are behind him 1000%. We can’t just talk about it — we have to be about it. Read the full story and find out how you can be part of building the future.
Tee it up for a legend and support Bulldog athletics. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just love the camaraderie — come out and represent. Grab your spot before it fills up!
Register your young athlete for the Shaquille Darius Leonard Free Youth Football Camp! A great opportunity for kids to learn from the best and build their love for the game.
The South Carolina State University men’s basketball program will host its annual Bulldogs Elite Camp on Friday, July 25, at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center.
