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Senate panel forwards two cultural-board nominees, asks about conflicts and grant oversight
Summary
The Senate Education Committee voted to forward Elizabeth McNeil’s nomination to the South Carolina Commission of Archives and History and to reappoint Miss Vasudeva to the South Carolina Arts Commission after questioning about dual-office holding and taxpayer-funded grant decisions.
The Senate Education Committee on Tuesday voted to send two gubernatorial appointments—a nominee to the South Carolina Commission of Archives and History and a reappointment to the South Carolina Arts Commission—to the full Senate for consideration.
Elizabeth McNeil of Bennettsville told the committee she has a background in civic engagement and heritage organizations and is seeking confirmation to the state Archives and History Commission. Asked about potential dual-office holding with her seat on the Bennettsville Architectural Review board, McNeil said, “If I am confirmed for service on the commission, I will immediately resign from my local architectural review board.” Research director Katie Grinstead confirmed McNeil’s disclosure forms were complete. The committee made a motion for a favorable report and approved it on a voice vote.
The committee also considered the reappointment of Miss Vasudeva, who described prior service on the Arts Commission, the Foundation Board and the Mansion Commission and said she was honored to be asked to continue serving. Vasudeva told senators she has accepted an invitation to the Smithsonian’s Folklife Council in connection with the state’s 250th anniversary activities.
Senator Massey raised concerns about some past grant awards and urged commissioners to consider how taxpayer dollars are used by the Arts Commission. “I understand that art is an expression…But also understand that much of what the Arts Commission does comes from taxpayer funds,” Massey said, citing press reports about specific award decisions and urging commissioners to review staff presentations carefully when grants are recommended. Vasudeva responded that public decency is important and acknowledged the concern.
Both nominations were moved and approved by the committee and will be forwarded to the full Senate.
The committee took up these appointments near the start of its agenda and proceeded to the next items after the votes.
