
February 8, 2000 ![]() Clyburn, a native of Sumter, graduated from South Carolina State University. Following his graduation, he served as a teacher, an employment counselor, and director of youth and community development projects in Charleston. Clyburn was later appointed to Governor John C. West's staff in 1971 and in 1974 Gov. West appointed him South Carolina Human Affairs Commissioner. Clyburn was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1992, becoming the first African American House member since 1895. Clyburn began to distinguish himself quickly, serving on various committees. During his first term, Clyburn served as president of the freshmen class, and in 1998 he was elected to chair the Congressional Black Caucus for the 106th Congress by a rare unanimous vote. Today, Clyburn is serving his fourth congressional term as a House member, representing District 6, which serves more than 581,000 people. The Citadel's Greater Issues Series was established in 1953 by Gen. Mark Clark (former president of the college) to give cadets insight into issues they face as future leaders of society. |
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