Columbia, South Carolina: Longtime USC Board Member Steps Down
Eddie Floyd, a key figure at the University of South Carolina (USC) and a member of the board of trustees since the early 1980s, has quietly retired from his position. This significant transition was confirmed by Governor Henry McMaster during a press conference held on Tuesday afternoon. The Governor announced his decision to appoint Floyd’s daughter, Coleman Floyd Buckhouse, to fill the vacancy left by her father.
Who is Eddie Floyd?
Floyd had a commanding presence in USC’s administrative landscape and served as the board’s chairman from 1992 to 1996. He was a heart surgeon, active community member, and a successful tobacco farmer in Florence, South Carolina. His dedication to the university and the community has been profound over his more than four-decade tenure.
The Governor’s Remarks
Governor McMaster revealed that Floyd had expressed a desire to step down while also wishing for his daughter to secure his seat if possible. “Dr. Floyd recommended his daughter, who is also a doctor in Florence. I’ve known the family for years, and I asked her if she would be willing, if she wanted it. She said she did,” McMaster said. The Governor’s remarks highlighted the unique circumstances surrounding this appointment, emphasizing that “no one else expressed interest” in the role at this time.
Transitioning Leadership
The appointment is marked as interim, pending a final vote by the General Assembly upon its return. As of now, Coleman Floyd Buckhouse’s biography has been updated on the USC board of trustees’ website, indicating her qualifications as a physician and her new role beginning in 2024.
Community Contributions
Chairman of the board, Thad Westbrook, praised Eddie Floyd’s contributions, stating, “For more than four decades, Dr. Floyd’s service to the USC Board of Trustees ensured consistent wisdom and oversight.” His hours of dedication to board matters illustrated the impact he had on USC and its future.
The Legacy of Eddie Floyd
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Floyd’s legacy includes significant contributions to his local community. He has been instrumental in funding various projects, including a new county library and community centers. His charitable work has resulted in millions of dollars being funneled into local educational institutions, including Francis Marion University.
Along with his philanthropic endeavors, Floyd had a notable influence in political fundraising, supporting various candidates from both the Republican and Democratic parties over the years. His connections have helped enhance the university’s visibility and involvement in state affairs.
Controversies Surrounding Floyd
Floyd’s tenure wasn’t without controversy. In 2017, he faced backlash over the display of a painting by Adolf Hitler in his home, which he eventually decided to take down. Furthermore, he has been involved in contentious issues regarding board member approvals during a tumultuous period for USC’s leadership.
Looking Ahead
The USC board, traditionally composed of 20 members, currently has three open seats, and it remains to be seen how the upcoming vote will unfold. For now, the legacy of Eddie Floyd stands not just in his contributions but also in the new path being paved by his daughter, offering a personal touch to the governance of the institution.
