Guests

Parking

Parking is very limited on campus, and ridesharing is encouraged. Parking is available along Colonial Drive and Clarendon Street. Please view the campus map, follow directional signage, and park wherever space is available. Columbia College representatives will also be on campus to assist with any questions.

Location

The investiture ceremony on Saturday was held inside at Cottingham Theatre. Remote viewing of the live ceremony was available in the Johnnie Cordell Breed Leadership Center for Women, as well as on the Columbia College YouTube channel, for those wishing to view the event.

Attire

The weather in Columbia in April is warm and humid. Men typically wear dress shirts and slacks, and optionally, a coat and tie to the indoor events. However, the celebration following the Investiture will be held outside, and most men find coats and ties to be uncomfortable. Ladies typically wear nice slacks, skirts, or dresses. Light colors and fabrics are recommended for outdoor events. Umbrellas, sunscreen, and other protection from sun or rain are also advisable.

Tickets

Tickets were required to attend the investiture ceremony. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Remote viewing sites were open to any person unable to enter once the venue has reached capacity, and all were welcome to the outdoor reception on the grounds.

Tours  

Guided walking tours will be available following the investiture ceremony until 4 p.m. Tours departed from the Johnnie Cordell Breed Leadership Center for Women with staggered start times. 

Delegates & Faculty/Staff

Delegate Information  

Columbia College is honored to welcome delegates from institutions of higher education societies to participate in the inauguration of Columbia College’s 21st President, John H. Dozier.

  • Delegates provide their own regalia to participate in the Investiture Academic Procession.
  • Delegates are requested to arrive at Spears Center for the Arts at 10:00 a.m. with their academic regalia.
  • Reserved parking for delegates is available in the circular driveway immediately in front of the Johnnie Cordell Breed Leadership Center for Women. Delegates are asked to follow directional signage.
  • Delegates are given the opportunity to check their regalia during the celebration following the ceremony.  

Faculty & Staff Information

Information for Faculty Planning to Participate in the Investiture Ceremony, Saturday, April 20, 2024:

  • You must wear academic regalia to march. Marching order is by academic rank, with length of service in that rank as a second criterion. Faculty who did not RSVP by the deadline march last, regardless of rank.
  • Please arrive at Spears Center for the Arts at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 20th, with your academic regalia.
  • Because there is no secure storage space, you should not bring large items that cannot be carried in the procession, such as a briefcase, backpack, or large handbag. 

Hotel Accommodations

Columbia College is located approximately 1½ miles from downtown Columbia. Downtown Columbia offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors. Whether you choose a bed and breakfast, a hotel, a boutique inn, or a short-term rental property, be aware that accommodation rates vary seasonally, so we encourage visitors to make hotel arrangements early.

  • Aloft Columbia (803-445-1900): 923 Lady Street, Columbia, SC 29201
  • Hilton Columbia Center (803-744-7800): 924 Senate Street, Columbia, SC 29201
  • Hilton Garden Inn Columbia | Downtown (800-227-3340): 1200 Pickens Street, Columbia, SC 29201 (Columbia College discount included)
  • Hotel Trundle (803-722-5000): 1224 Taylor Street, Columbia, SC 29201 
  • Hyatt Place Columbia (855-516-1090): 819 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201 
  • Marriott Columbia (803-771-7000): 1200 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC 29201 
  • Sheraton Columbia (803-988-1400): 1400 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201 
  • Staybridge Suites (803-451-5900): 1913 Huger Street, Columbia, SC 29201 (Columbia College discount included)