South Carolina State University Foundation Announces Appointment of New Executive Director

Orangeburg, SC – The South Carolina State University Foundation (SCSUF) is proud to announce the appointment of Lorne Steedley as its new Executive Director. A seasoned nonprofit and foundation leader with more than two decades of experience in philanthropy, strategic management, fundraising, and inclusive economic development, Steedley will assume leadership of the Foundation effective immediately. 

As Executive Director, Steedley will oversee day-to-day foundation operations, donor cultivation, gala fundraising, investment management, and strategic initiatives that align with the University’s mission.

A Columbia, SC native and University of South Carolina graduate, Steedley brings a wealth of leadership experience from across the nonprofit, philanthropic, healthcare, and economic development sectors. His distinguished career includes service as:

• Vice President for Diversity and Inclusive Growth at the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, where he generated new revenue through inclusive procurement programs and launched initiatives that strengthened small business ecosystems.

• Community Benefits and Partnerships Manager at Mass General Brigham Health Plan, where he directed corporate philanthropy, oversaw compliance reporting, and managed strategic community investments.

• Program Officer at the Annie E. Casey Foundation, where he administered a $1.2 million portfolio focused on equitable neighborhood development in major U.S. cities.

• Senior Principal Consultant at Motus Consulting, providing strategic and operational support to nonprofits nationwide.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steedley is a recognized thought leader, contributing to the American Diversity Report, Business Trend Magazine, and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives on topics such as inclusive economic development, servant leadership, and equity in business practices. 

Steedley’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the SCSU Foundation, which is in a phase of growth and organizational development. He will play a key role in expanding fundraising capacity, strengthening corporate and alumni partnerships, and advancing the Foundation’s ability to steward resources that directly benefit SC State students and programs. 

“I am honored to join the South Carolina State University Foundation at such a pivotal time in the organization’s work” said Steedley. “As a son of South Carolina, I know the transformative role that SC State plays in higher education and in the lives of students. I look forward to working alongside the Foundation Board, University and community leaders, alumni, and partners to build on this momentum and help position SC State for even greater success.” 

“Lorne’s extensive background in philanthropy, economic development, and nonprofit leadership uniquely qualifies him to provide leadership as the Foundation ushers in its next chapter,” said Foundation Board Chair Stephen Beatty. “His contributions will be instrumental in supporting the Foundation’s continued growth in support of the University.” 

Steedley holds degrees from Boston College (M.A. Sociology), the University of Massachusetts Boston (M.S. Human Services Planning), and the University of South Carolina (B.A.), and completed a fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Department of Urban Studies and Planning. He also participated in the Emerging Leaders Program at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business and Duke University. 

With this appointment, the Foundation will continue to expand its impact, ensuring that donor investments strengthen SC State’s legacy as a leading HBCU dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and service. 

For more information about the South Carolina State University Foundation, visit scsuf-archive.pillarwebdesign.com. 

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