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CSU Students Make a Difference in State Politics Through SCSL
Charleston Southern University’s delegation to the South Carolina Student Legislature (SCSL) will travel to Columbia Nov. 4-6 for the organization’s fall session at the State House.
SCSL is a mock, student-led legislature in which college students from across South Carolina write and debate bills at the desks of the state’s representatives and senators in the House and Senate chambers.
Over the years, CSU’s delegation has earned recognition and respect among much larger schools such as USC and Clemson. In the past decade, CSU students have served as SCSL governor and lieutenant governor and have received honors such as Best Senator.
Founded in 1956, the program has had a large impact on state politics. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster is an SCSL alumnus. When bills pass, the governor’s office reviews them and discusses them with the SCSL executive board for consideration. Many participants go on to work in state and federal politics, including CSU alumni such as Rep. Jordan Pace.
“We now have a super strong presence and unity that I would argue goes unmatched for our delegation size.”
Delegates write bills using South Carolina’s state law code, proposing actual changes. Hot topics have included educational standards, artificial intelligence use and regulation, religious freedom, taxation, and environmental policy.
“The coolest part is being able to present your bill on the floor of the statehouse,” Connor said.
Brandon Diehl, the delegation’s staff adviser, is a CSU SCSL alumnus and has served as a paralegal, and he currently works in the CSU enrollment office.
“SCSL is a perfect way for people who are interested in civics to take an active approach to understanding the legislative branch of the South Carolina government. Not only does it give students the opportunity to experience real-world political discourse, but it opens doors for future government and political work in the future.”
Diehl said CSU delegates are known for combining firm convictions with a relational approach.
Diehl said, “CSU is greatly respected for our ability to stand up in defense of our beliefs with tangible, articulable arguments, while also being able to come across the aisle to support others every opportunity that we can, rather than allowing our differences to poison relationships.”
Connor said students who are unsure about politics should not let that stop them from getting involved. Politics is part of SCSL, she said, but it remains a low-stakes, friendly environment.
Diehl said new members will have support from the start.
“Know that you will not be alone. We operate as a team and a family, both as a school and as brothers and sisters in Christ. We provide plenty of training and support leading up to session, too!” Diehl said.
Evan Wilson, Buc News Student Media author, is majoring in communication and musical theatre.
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