GSSM Honors Academic Excellence at Annual Awards Ceremony

HARTSVILLE, S.C. (May 26, 2025) -?The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) held its annual Academic Awards Ceremony on Sunday, May 18, recognizing exceptional student achievement, leadership, and service across a wide range of disciplines. 

The ceremony, which took place in GSSM’s auditorium, celebrated juniors and seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance, leadership in the school and community, and commitment to service. Dozens of honors were presented by faculty and leadership, including nationally recognized book awards, department awards, and scholarships. 

“One of the things I enjoy most about the Academic Awards ceremony is the energy in the room when the student body cheers as classmates' names are announced,” said Danny Dorsel, president of GSSM. “The awards span a wide range, from the University of Notre Dame Book Award and National Merit Finalist recognitions to honors like RIT Women in STEM, the Dr. Bill Excellence in Research, and the coveted Spirit of GSSM. It's a heartwarming celebration of both individual achievement and the collective dedication of our community throughout the year.” 

Among the awards presented were: 

• National Merit Finalists and Palmetto Fellows & LIFE Scholars 

• University Book Awards from institutions such as Yale, Columbia, Tulane, and the University of Virginia  

• Departmental Awards in English, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Physics, Math, Computer Science, and World Languages 

• Special Honors including the Spirit of GSSM Award, Take Flight Award, and the Dr. William C. Alexander Excellence in Research Award 

• Scholar Athlete Recognition and selection of student Ambassadors, Natural Helpers, and Academic Tutors 

The ceremony closed with reflections from President Dorsel, who acknowledged the dedication of GSSM’s students and faculty and the support of families and communities across South Carolina. 

Relive the celebration! View event photos on GSSM’s official Facebook (facebook.com/SCGSSM/) and Instagram (instagram.com/scgssm/) pages and watch the full ceremony on our YouTube (youtube.com/@scgssm1988) channel.  

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About the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics 
The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) is a nationally ranked top 10 public high school that exists to bring world-class STEM education to students across the state. Founded in 1988 by Gov. Carroll Campbell, GSSM is a state resource that offers a variety of programs including an intensive two-year residential high school, a challenging virtual engineering program, summer camps, and in-school experiences for students in 3rd through 12th grades. At GSSM challenge is viewed as a gateway to opportunity. Learn more about how we help students realize their full potential by visiting www.scgssm.org.