SC State University hosts Grand Coronation Ceremony to crown new student leaders

ORANGEBURG, S.C. – South Carolina State University recently crowned the 87th Miss SC State Karrington McClurkin and the 10th Mister SC State Delano Whitfield as part of the university’s annual Homecoming Week.

The coronation on Thursday, Nov. 2, was a gathering full of esteemed guests, such as royal courts from Claflin University, Benedict College, and Felton Laboratory School, The Board of Trustees, and President Alexander Conyers. To celebrate their legacy, former SC State kings and queens spanning three decades graced the floor during the royal night.

McClurkin and Whitfield, draped in all-white attire, embodied regal grace and distinction. The choice of all-white attire conveyed purity and the promise of a new reign. Their regalia -- including the crown, robe and sash -- symbolized their ascent to leadership and the responsibilities they would shoulder throughout the year.

This coronation stands as a powerful symbol of representation and possibility. The elected figures bear the responsibility of being the faces of the institution, breaking barriers, and proving that representation matters. Miss SC State and Mister SC State’s role in recruitment and community service is pivotal, and their coronation celebrations rival those seen in movies, making them real-life figures in higher education.

"I knew there was a need and necessity for a representation on the male side, at school, for a young man especially to see a Black king," Whitfield said.

When asked why she ran for Miss SC State, McClurkin said her desire to be involved stemmed from the fact that SC State students are highly involved on campus. She wanted to do something to help promote student engagement while also being a voice for the students.

"Holding a prestigious title like Miss SC State University and representing their university is a great sense of pride and responsibility and an opportunity to serve as a positive role model for the institution," said McClurkin, noting that she enjoys participating in community outreach, promoting the university's values, and fostering school spirit.

Whitfield's words echoed the significance of exemplifying a high-value role model for young men. His presence and style serve as an inspiration for others to follow in his footsteps.

"I'm aware of my duty to uphold myself to a certain standard and represent excellence as an honorable and respectable student and campus leader,” he said.

A unique and emotional moment unfolded during the coronation when former leaders Mister SC State Aubrey Brown (2022-23) and Miss Richlyn Williams (2021-22),  passed the crown to the new royals. This transfer of power marked the official transition to the next era. 

University students played an integral role in this grand celebration, with representatives from such campus organizations as the NAACP, the Health Professionals Society and the Honors College coming together to honor their new campus leaders. The colorful ballgowns and dance dedicated to the queen brought the room to life. The coronation was a spectacle that brought the community together to witness this majestic night.

As they embark on their reign, Mclurkin and Whitfield hold the promise of a bright future for SC State.