COLUMBIA -- The South Carolina Commission on Higher Education hosted the first-ever state-level South Carolina College and Career Decision Day Rally May 6, beginning with a parade down Main Street and ending with a packed rally of more than 1,000 graduating seniors at the State House. 

Mirrored after National Signing Day, this event recognized high school seniors who have committed to attend any college, university, community college, vocational or training program, join the military, or enter the workforce. 

College and university representatives, representatives from the business community, representatives from the armed forces, state legislators, and local celebrities joined the CHE to show support for these students who have taken charge of their futures.  

Several speakers attended to congratulate the seniors, including Governor Henry McMaster, House Representative Rita Allison, the CHE's President Dr. Rusty Monhollon, and Department of Education Superintendant Molly Spearman. Afterwards, students had the opportunity to spend time speaking with college representatives and military recruiters, enjoy entertainment from a DJ and have lunch from the food trucks that were on site.

Watch a video of the parade on our Facebook page