It is with profound sorrow and deep respect that Claflin University announces the passing of Shirley Anne Hugee, a beloved staff member, dedicated mentor, and alumna, who died on Saturday at MUSC Health Orangeburg. Ms. Hugee’s departure has left a significant void in the university community, where she was celebrated for her unwavering commitment to student success and her compassionate spirit.
As the Coordinator for Academic Student Support with Upward Bound, she played a pivotal role in guiding countless students toward academic achievement and personal growth. The university mourns the loss of a woman whose legacy of service and mentorship will endure for generations.
Shirley Anne Hugee was a 1970 graduate of Claflin University, a milestone that marked the beginning of her lifelong connection to the institution. Her return to campus as a staff member reflected her deep loyalty and desire to give back to the community that shaped her.
In her role with Upward Bound, she provided essential academic support and guidance to students, helping them navigate the challenges of higher education. Colleagues and students alike remember her for her patience, encouragement, and genuine interest in their well-being, noting how her presence often served as a source of stability and inspiration.
Known across campus for her caring spirit, Ms. Hugee was more than an administrator; she was a mentor who invested deeply in the futures of her students. Her work with Upward Bound allowed her to impact young lives directly, offering advice, resources, and emotional support to those seeking to improve their educational outcomes.
Former students recall her ability to listen with empathy and her willingness to go above and beyond to ensure their success. Her dedication to equity and access in education made her a respected figure within the university and the broader Orangeburg community.
In a statement shared on social media, Claflin University President Dwaun J. Warmack expressed heartfelt condolences, describing Ms. Hugee’s death as a major loss for the university. He highlighted her contributions to the institution’s mission and her role in fostering a supportive environment for students.
His tribute underscored the high regard in which she was held by administration, faculty, and staff, reflecting the broad impact of her career. The university community joins President Warmack in honoring her memory and celebrating her life of service.
Shirley Anne Hugee is survived by her family, former students, and colleagues who continue to uphold the values of dedication and compassion she exemplified. Her legacy endures in the academic achievements of the students she supported and the positive culture she helped cultivate at Claflin University.
As the community reflects on her passing, they find comfort in the stories of her kindness and her unwavering belief in the potential of others. Her memory remains a testament to the power of mentorship and the enduring impact of a life devoted to education and service.
