By now, you have heard the story – at least a version of it. 

In November 2014, I was elected the first Black Fraternity Council President at the University of South Carolina. On September 21, 2015, I was impeached for “doing the right thing, but not following the rules.”

I remember standing on the ramp outside of Russell House talking to my fraternity brothers about what just happened. Mid conversation, I received a call from my chapter advisor who expressed support for my decision and reminded me that “you can’t impeach vision.” After we got off the phone, I pressed send on the tweet below and reminded the world that as a Gamecock, my integrity has no limits. 

The next several weeks were a whirlwind. Fraternity and sorority life advisors across the country were reaching out to show support through Twitter and Facebook. I conducted interviews with The Chronicle of Higher Education and USA Today. I was invited by Nicki Rowlett to deliver my first keynote presentation at Millikin University. But I wasn’t happy. I was depressed. 

As a graduating senior, I was in the midst of graduate school applications while trying to enjoy my last Fall football season. I was named 2015 Homecoming King, but didn’t get a parade nor was recognized on the field during halftime because of the historic South Carolina floods and runaway zoo animals. I experienced food insecurity, struggled with addiction and anxiety, and was in battle with suicidal ideations. Yes, all during the Fall 2015 semester. 

But this isn’t a sad story. It’s my testimony. 

Today, we thank God. Next week, we celebrate. 

When I transferred to South Carolina, I told my mama that I’d have my name etched somewhere on USC’s campus forever before I graduated – my induction into the Hall of Leaders sealed that promise. 

During the impeachment process, I kept asking “why me?” I received the answer during my trips to Marquette, University of Nevada, and Radford University where I delivered my signature #YCIV keynote presentation.  

Now eight years later, I get to finish what I started. 

I have agreed to contribute $25,000 USD over the next five years to establish a permanently endowed fund as part of the University of South Carolina Educational Foundation.

This fund will be known as The “You Can’t Impeach Vision” Endowed Scholarship.

This fund will support increasing the racial diversity of the undergraduate student population, with deliberate attention to students from historically underrepresented and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. First preference will be given to out-of-state students.  

As an out-of-state transfer student, the University of South Carolina became my second home. The friendships and brotherhood, the tailgates, and Russell House (Pandini’s, under the stairs, patio) are some of the memories and moments that helped me find belonging, my voice, and my purpose on that campus. But out-of-state tuition was a burden. So, I am committed to raising money for a forever fund that will offset costs for future out-of-state students who desire to become Gamecocks. 

I have nothing but love for my alma mater. Since graduating in Spring 2016, I have served on our Black Alumni Council and hosted webinars discussing the university’s DEI strategic plan with VP Julian Williams and athlete activism with former Gamecock athletes. I travel to watch Dawn Staley and our Women’s basketball compete in home and away games – yes, I WILL BE in Paris for our season opener.

Today, I get to begin a new role as a donor. A role I thought I’d assume closer to retirement, but purpose can’t wait. 

Yooooo – $25,000 USD is a lot of money (LOL!) and I welcome your help. 

You can donate directly here. You can also visit donate.sc.edu and go to direct your gift and type in the fund number (b12560) or fund name and it will auto populate. $1, $5, $100 – I am grateful for any moments as any and everything will help us reach $25,000!

It’s 2023 – yes, you can pay with ApplePay. There is also employer matching as well. 

Thank y’all in advance for your financial support and public amplification of this scholarship fund. Share, share, share with your family, friends, and Gamecock alumni!

I am excited to brainstorm innovative ideas to reach our fundraising goal. Shoooooot – I might mess around and host a party next week to kick off our fundraising campaign. Charlotte?! 

There is no TFB without the University of South Carolina, Columbia. 

This is my origin story and you can’t impeach vision. 

Forever to Thee! 

Encourage somebody to be great today!

Timothy F. Bryson