Hugh C. Lane

State chartered commercial bank

Functions as a College/University

Functions as a College/University

Nationally chartered commercial bank

The non-profit company is based in Columbia, SC. SCICU advocates for private higher education in the state, emphasizing the value of a liberal arts education that prepares students for careers, lifelong learning, leadership, and service. Its member institutions are accredited, non-profit, and collectively enroll over 36,000 undergraduates, offering diverse programs including traditional, accelerated, and evening courses. SCICU supports its members through advocacy, fundraising, collaboration, and public engagement to ensure affordable access to independent higher education aligned with students' values and goals. The organization administers scholarship programs, distributes financial aid and research funding, recognizes outstanding faculty, operates a purchasing coalition, and connects member institutions with business partners. SCICU provides resources for students and families, publishes newsletters and reports, and engages in legislative advocacy to support independent higher education funding and policy. South Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities, Inc. (SCICU) is a non-profit organization founded in 1953 that represents 20 independent colleges and universities, including five historically black institutions.

Charleston Trident Urban League, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting racial and economic equity and community empowerment in the surrounding counties. The private company is based in Charleston, SC. The organization provides a broad range of services focused on housing stability, financial empowerment, and social justice. Key programs include HUD-approved housing counseling for renters, homeowners, and low-income families, offering eviction prevention, foreclosure assistance, rental rights education, and fair housing advocacy. The organization also delivers financial literacy training, debt reduction counseling, and down payment assistance to support homeownership and economic stability. Additionally, it administers the IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, providing free tax preparation services to low-to-moderate income individuals, including vulnerable populations such as the elderly and limited English speakers. The organization fosters community leadership and engagement through workshops, events, newsletters, and partnerships, emphasizing collaboration and measurable progress toward equity. It maintains a fair housing hotline and actively supports initiatives in affordable housing and job training.