Celebrating New Leadership and a Vision for the Future
There is an exciting new chapter in the ongoing story of an esteemed alumni group in the Columbia community. Matthew Holland, an alum of Johnson C. Smith University, was elected the president of the Columbia Metro Area
Alumni Chapter of the Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) National Alumni Association (NAA). This transition marks not only a change in leadership, but the chapter’s continued commitment to promote and support excellence, unity, and lifelong learning.
Holland brings a longrunning record of dedication, service, and vision for the support of JCSU, all forged through years of active participation within the NAA and the Charlotte and Columbia chapters and a deep understanding of the values that bind us together. His journey from student to graduate and now to leader is a testament to the spirit of perseverance and community that defines the alumni of JCSU.
Holland has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering connections among our alumni, elevating the chapter’s visibility, and championing initiatives that create tangible value for its members, as well as friends of JCSU. “Our primary objectives will be to expand our membership,
organizing major networking events to spearheading mentorship programs, and to have the Columbia, SC chapter to leave an indelible mark throughout the Columbia area and the Midland of its service, innovation, and collaboration.’
Holland succeeds the outgoing president, Virginia Peterkin, whose tenure has been one of tireless dedication and compassionate guidance. While welcoming the new officers of the Columbia alumni chapter, profound gratitude given to Virginia Peterkins, the outgoing president. Over her tenure, the chapter witnessed growth, resilience during uncertain times, and the strengthening of bonds across generations. Peterkin’s tireless dedication, compassionate guidance, and relentless pursuit of excellence have set a high standard for future leaders.
The other newly elected officers of the Columbia chapter are Robin Bishop McCrae, Vice President; Rose Davis,
Recording Secretary; Veronica Isaac, Corresponding Secretary; Andrea Rochelle Johnson, Financial Secretary; Daniel Bouldrick, Treasurer; James Melvin, JCSU University Liaison.
Johnson C. Smith University has more than 10,000 alumni across the globe. Golden Bulls are taking charge in their fields and reaching back, while providing service and mentorship to students. For more than 155 years, Johnson C. Smith University has produced educators, mathematicians, researchers, preachers, business analysts, doctors, case managers, and so much more.
Johnson C. Smith University has a rich history and is heralded as one of the best small HBCU in the nation, serving more than 1,100 students and employing more than 240 full-time faculty members, administrators, and staff.
On June 21, 2023, Johnson C. Smith University’s Board of Trustees announced the selection of Dr. Valerie Kinloch as the University’s 15th president, effective Aug. 1, 2023. Dr. Kinloch is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University (‘96) and a past member of its Board of Trustees, giving her deep insight into the strengths and challenges of the 156-yearold university, founded to
serve formerly enslaved Black people and now educating more than 1,100 students annually with 22-degree programs, including a Master of Social Work program.
Looking ahead, JCSU will continue to fulfill its promise to produce graduates who can communicate effectively, think critically, learn independently and collaboratively, and demonstrate excellence in their chosen career fields.
