2021 Alumni Award Winners
Dr. Dennis Pruitt
Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award
Dennis Pruitt, vice president for student affairs and vice provost at the University of South Carolina, has led the University’s Division of Student Affairs and Academic Support since 1983. He designed the university’s first and award-winning enrollment-management model, developed what is widely regarded as one of the earliest and most thorough strategic-planning processes in the field and significantly enhanced the university’s student-service programs.
Dr. Mark Lee
Dr. (LTC) Mark Lee retired from the military after more than 31 years of distinguished service to our great nation. As a decorated retired veteran, Lee has received many awards and honors throughout his military career, including the Purple Heart, Silver Star and Bronze Star, just to name a few.
Joe Blanchard
Honorary Life Member
Joe Blanchard is President and CEO of Blanchard Machinery Company, the Caterpillar dealership serving the state of South Carolina. During his tenure as President and Dealer Principal, Joe has seen the company grow from 240 employees to over 600 employees in 12 locations.
Dr. Hope Rivers
Outstanding Black Alumni Award
Dr. Hope Rivers is a three-time alumna of the University of South Carolina earning her Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration, a Certificate in Higher Education Leadership, a Master of Education in Community and Occupational Programs in Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in English.
James Wolf
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
James Wolf is a First Vice President and Senior Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in Charlotte, NC. He is a Senior Partner with The Anderson Wolf Godsey Group and recently named to the Forbes Magazine Best-in-State Next Generation Wealth Advisors list. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Marketing from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina.