COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina proudly announces the selection of the third class in the BlueScholars program. This initiative, introduced in 2022 in collaboration with Benedict College and Claflin University, continues to support educational and career opportunities for students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Each year, eight talented students — four from Benedict College and four from Claflin University — are awarded full scholarships.

“Our continued investment in the BlueScholars program emphasizes our commitment to fostering future leaders through education and mentorship,” said David Cote, vice president of human resources at BlueCross. “We are excited to see the growth and achievements of these remarkable students.”

The BlueScholars program provides comprehensive support, including:

• Tuition, room and board.
• Professional development opportunities such as internships and mentorship.

These initiatives are designed to prepare students for successful careers and leadership roles within BlueCross and beyond.

Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, president and CEO of Benedict College, expressed her enthusiasm for the ongoing partnership and the opportunities it brings to her students. 

"Benedict College remains deeply grateful for BlueCross’ strategic investment,” Artis said. “This partnership not only enriches the academic experience of our students but also prepares them for meaningful careers. The introduction of our third class of BlueScholars marks another milestone in our shared journey toward excellence."

Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack, president of Claflin University, emphasized the program's profound and transformative impact.

"The BlueScholars program showcases the power of education to transform lives. We are proud of our selected students and look forward to seeing their significant contributions to our university and the broader community."

The BlueScholars program remains a leading source of opportunity, enabling students to excel academically while gaining valuable leadership experience through internships with BlueCross. This unique combination of academic support and professional development is designed to create a pipeline of talented leaders who will contribute significantly to their communities and industries.

About BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina  

Headquartered in Columbia and operating in South Carolina for 75 years, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. The only South Carolina-owned and -operated health insurance carrier, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina comprises more than 20 companies involved in health insurance services, U.S. Department of Defense health program and Medicare contracts, other insurance and employee benefits services, and a philanthropic foundation that funds programs to improve health care and access to health care for South Carolinians.

About Benedict College 

Founded in 1870 by a woman, Bathsheba A. Benedict, Benedict College is a private co-educational liberal arts institution offering 26 competitive baccalaureate degree programs. The Midlands HBCU welcomes students from all 46 counties in South Carolina, 30 states across America and 26 countries around the world. 

About Claflin University 

Claflin University is a comprehensive institution of higher education affiliated with the United Methodist Church. A historically Black university founded in 1869, Claflin is dedicated to providing a student-centered, liberal arts education grounded in cutting-edge research, experiential learning, state-of-the-art technology, community service, and lifelong personal and professional development. Claflin is a diverse and inclusive community of students, faculty, staff and administrators who work to cultivate practical wisdom, judgment, knowledge, skills and character needed for globally engaged citizenship and effective leadership.