Dr. Andrew Hugine Jr. often references the story of Nehemiah from the Bible when talking about his alma mater.

Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem after the city came under attack and was ravaged by enemies. While no enemies sacked South Carolina State University, Hugine saw there was much rebuilding that needed to be done once he became president on July 1, 2003.

During Hugine's tenure, a $4 million budget shortfall was turned into $2 million surplus, construction of several buildings on campus began, faculty and staff salaries were increased and enrollment reached an all-time high.

"These are not the accomplishments of Andrew Hugine but of many individuals coming together and rallying to the call of the university," Hugine said.

On Tuesday, the S.C. State Board of Trustees voted not to renew Hugine's contract, which was set to expire in June 2008. In addition, it placed him on administrative leave, with his last day scheduled for Jan. 4.

Dr. Leonard McIntyre has been appointed interim president while the university seeks Hugine's replacement.

At this point, Hugine does not wish to say more about the board's decision. But he did discuss his time as president.

Hugine admits that much work has yet to be done as he steps away from the office he held for the past five years. He says it is impossible to accomplish everything, especially in the realm of being a university president, but he is content with what he did accomplish.

While Hugine wanted to establish a full-fledged engineering program, reach the target of a $1 million endowment and see some of the building projects on campus reach completion, he believes that he has faithfully served his alma mater.

"I'm looking forward to even greater things going forward," said Hugine, who has indicated that his involvement with S.C. State will not end even as his presidency comes to a close.

As he reflects on his experience of being S.C. State's ninth president, one adjective particularly comes to mind: rewarding. Hugine says that his time as a professor at SCSU was rewarding as well. However, the opportunity he was blessed with as president gave him the chance to impact thousands of young students' lives.

It was a job Hugine could not have accomplished without the support of his family, both his immediate one and his S.C. State family. He especially mentions his wife, Abbiegail, for her support.

"She has been a supportive, loving wife. She is always there for me. You can't find a person who is more committed and dedicated to the SCSU family," Hugine said.

He calls her his Energizer Bunny. "She keeps going and going," he said, noting she never missed an event as the university's first lady.

A self-professed people person, Hugine said his everyday interactions with members of the S.C. State family was one of his favorite aspects of the job.

Hugine said he is thankful for the outpouring of support he has received.

"When people come forth, it certainly affirms what has been done, that they are saying a job well done," he said.

Hugine thanks a laundry list of groups and individuals for helping him the last few years, including his cabinet, faculty, staff, students, alumni, the General Assembly, federal officials, people in the community and the Board of Trustees.

"I thank the Board of Trustees that gave me the opportunity to serve," he said.

Among the highlights of Hugine's tenure was the April 26 Democratic Presidential Debate held at S.C. State. It was televised throughout the nation and the world and Hugine said that no event in the history of S.C. State has had such a far-reaching impact.

Hugine said the proudest moment of his life was when NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams was broadcast live from S.C. State's campus. That coupled with the students being such wonderful ambassadors of the university gave Hugine lasting memories of that day.

"It was truly an experience I will never forget," he said.

Hugine has many fond memories he will take away, such as S.C. State football games. He said the camaraderie between fans at the football games was what truly made them special.

Hugine also acknowledged the university's other athletic teams and said the school has a well-rounded athletics program.

One aspect of Hugine's job that he will miss is passing out diplomas during commencement. Hugine said the best part was spending time with the students.

Hugine called his presidency student-centered and says he always strived to put them first. When asked about the recent honor of having Andrew Hugine Suites being named after him, he said, "Hopefully, people will remember it as putting the students at the forefront of the university.

"It's good because we fortunately have the opportunity to help thousands of young people achieve their dreams."

T&D Staff Writer Lee Tant can be reached by e-mail at ltant@timesanddemocrat.com or by phone at 803-534-1060. Discuss this and other stories online at TheTandD.com.

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