GREENVILLE, S.C. (November 25, 2024) – Several members of the Bob Jones University delegation to the South Carolina Student Legislature (SCSL) were recognized with individual awards during the fall session held Nov. 13-15, 2024, in Columbia, S.C.
Preparation for SCSL helps students learn the intricacies of representative government and provides an opportunity for them to hone their skills by debating their peers on a host of issues.
Founded in 1956 by Dr. Doug Carlisle, the organization is run entirely by students. Former participants include current South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster.
This session, Bob Jones University, Charleston Southern University, Clemson University, Coastal Carolina University, Francis Marion University, Presbyterian College and the University of South Carolina fielded delegations.
The BJU delegation was chaired by senior Camden Gearhart of Greenville and comprised of senior Abigail Bergmann from Greer, South Carolina; senior Gretchen Bradley from Greenville; junior Hope Combest from Clarkston, Michigan; sophomore Josiah Gearhart from Greenville; junior Dillon Harris from Lexington, South Carolina; senior Kate Huffstutler from Tallmadge, Ohio; junior Hudson Knight from Clayton, North Carolina; and senior AnnaGrace Leszkowicz from Findlay, Ohio;
Former State Representative Wendy Nanney (‘87) served as delegation sponsor.
During the session, several members of the delegation served in leadership positions: Abigail Bergmann (Governor), AnnaGrace Leszkowicz (Secretary of State), Kate Huffstutler (Attorney General) and Gretchen Bradley (Associate Justice of the Supreme Court).
The following students were selected by their peers for individual awards and recognitions.
- Kate Huffstutler won Best Written Legislation and Best Written Brief.
- Camden Gearhart won the Chad M. Beatty Award, presented to an outstanding non-officer senior.
“As Governor of the South Carolina Student Legislature, I became the face, not only of the organization, but of how people perceived BJU and Christians as a whole. This role brought numerous challenges that strengthened my resolve in both my values and my faith,” said Abigail Bergmann. “As John 15:18 says “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” That thought deeply resonated with me throughout my governorship. At the end of my time in office, I stood firm and presented Christ in a way that left me proud of my leadership and what our group was able to accomplish.”
