The Board of Trustees movement shaped his lifelong of Ecumenical University commitment to social equity. announced the appointment He was notably a pallbearer at of James L. Felder as its third President John F. Kennedy’s president. Bishop Redfern funeral, symbolizing his signif-II, founder of Ecumenical icant national influence. After Church and University, offi- serving in the South Carolina cially announced, heralding a House of Representatives, new chapter in the institution’s Felder continued his impactful commitment to education and work, including leading voter community service. registration drives that signifi-James L. Felder, a distin- cantly increased Black voter guished civil rights activist and participation in South Carolina.
former South Carolina legis- Felder’s extensive edulator, brings a rich legacy of cational background includes leadership, advocacy, and edu- graduating from Clark College cational excellence to his new and Howard University School role. Felder’s life story is a tes- of Law, and he has held profestament to his relentless pursuit soral and leadership roles at of justice and his dedication to several higher education instiempowering communities. tutions. His publications and Born in Sumter, South Car- community initiatives further olina, in 1939, Felder’s early underscore his dedication to involvement in the civil rights civil rights and education.
“The Board of Trustees is confident that Mr. Felder’s visionary leadership will greatly enhance our institution’s impact, locally and globally,” said Bishop Redfern II. “His remarkable history and dedication align perfectly with the mission of Ecumenical University to build educational and spiritual foundations around the world.”
James L. Felder’s investiture will be held during the 28th annual convocation of the Ecumenical Church and University on May 19, 2024, at 4 PM at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, located at 1101 Lincoln St, Columbia, SC. Attendees are encouraged to register at the Ecumenical University Convocation.
