For The Bulldog Wire, Juneteenth speaks directly to who we are and what we represent. South Carolina State University has always been more than a school. It is a place where generations of Black excellence, leadership, scholarship, athletics, service, and culture have been nurtured and celebrated. From the classroom to the field, from the choir stand to the community, SCSU has continued to produce history-makers who carry the spirit of freedom forward.

Juneteenth gives us a moment to look back with respect, stand tall with pride, and move forward with purpose. It is a day to honor our ancestors who endured unimaginable hardship, yet still believed in a better future. It is also a day to celebrate the people, families, churches, HBCUs, educators, veterans, athletes, artists, and community leaders who continue to build on that legacy.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us remember that freedom is not just something we inherit — it is something we honor through education, unity, service, and love for our community.

So I jumped on the Chinese bus and got to New York about 9:30am because of traffic. I did get close to city hall, but not close enough to see anything, and I had a book bag so wouldn’t have been able to get that close anyway. However, I’m so glad I went. I grew up in NY (Greenburg) and have been around the city my entire life, and I can tell you the only other time I have seen the city transform like this was 9/11 — and even then, it wasn’t like what I experienced in NY this time. Then, it was somber.

Sports has a way of transcending across all races, cultures, and ethnicities like nothing else. Although it’s just a game, it exudes what most people aspire to do — live out our life’s dreams. So as Jesse used to say, let’s keep hope alive with our dreams and aspirations.

The Bulldog family is proud to celebrate one of our own — Bulldog legend John L. Courtney — as he is welcomed into the South Carolina State University Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

For those who know SC State football history, John L. Courtney’s name carries weight. As a dominant defensive lineman from 1978 to 1982, he brought power, discipline, and leadership to the field, earning his place among the greats in HBCU football history.

His outstanding career included honors such as MEAC Defensive Player of the Year, Kodak All-American, Chevrolet Most Valuable Player, and membership on the historic 1981 NCAA Division I-AA Semifinal Team.

His impact on the field, in the locker room, and throughout the Bulldog community continues to inspire generations. Congratulations, John L. Courtney! Your legacy is forever part of SC State history.

📸 The SCSU Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. Johnnie Felder

This historic trip was made even more special by the presence of Mr. Linwood Riddick, an 80-year-old Vietnam War veteran, proud SCSU alumnus, and member of the Dorchester Chapter. Mr. Riddick, who once sang with the choir as a student and earned his bachelor’s degree in music in May 2025, joined the choir on this incredible journey to New York.

Everybody get up for the SCSU Bulldogs and the Concert Choir! 🎤🐾

The all-time leading scorer in SC State University women’s basketball history, Roberta Williams, Class of ’80, was the first to play in the WBL.

She is also the first female athlete from SC State to be inducted into the SC Athletic Hall of Fame — a true trailblazer for the Bulldog family.

During the live interview I forgot to ask Roberta what dorm she stayed in, so I texted her and here is the answer: Freshman — Manning Hall, Sophomore — Truth Hall (High Rise), Junior — Truth Hall, Senior — Williams Hall.

📸 Roberta Williams celebrating her South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame induction with family and friends