The Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) will officially open the 2026-2027 school year with its annual Back-to-School Convocation, an inspiring and unifying event designed to energize educators, staff, and district leaders for the year ahead. This year’s convocation will feature nationally recognized motivational speaker and former collegiate athlete Inky Johnson. Convocation will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

The convocation serves as a cornerstone moment for OCSD, bringing together employees from across the district to celebrate accomplishments, align priorities, and reaffirm a shared commitment to student success. With a focus on purpose-driven leadership, resilience, and impact, Johnson’s message is expected to resonate deeply with the district’s mission of ensuring all students discover and develop their person, purpose, and platform.

“Each year, our Back-to-School Convocation sets the tone for the work ahead, reminding us of the profound responsibility we carry as educators and leaders,” said Superintendent Dr. Shawn D. Foster. “Welcoming Inky Johnson to Orangeburg County is an opportunity for our team to be inspired by a message of perseverance, purpose, and unwavering commitment, qualities that define the work we do every day on behalf of our students.”

A former University of Tennessee football player whose career was cut short by a life-altering injury, Johnson has become one of the nation’s most sought-after speakers. His story of resilience, faith, and determination has inspired audiences across the country, from professional sports organizations to Fortune 500 companies and educational institutions.

OCSD has a strong tradition of bringing impactful voices to its convocation stage. In previous years, the district has welcomed speakers such as Prince Ea, an internationally known spoken word artist and filmmaker whose thought-provoking messages challenge audiences to reflect on purpose and social responsibility; Chris Singleton, a former professional baseball player who has inspired thousands through his message of unity, resilience, and love following personal tragedy; and Shree Walker, a dynamic educator and leadership expert known for empowering school communities through her work in culture, climate, and student-centered practices.

“Bringing a speaker of this caliber to OCSD reflects our commitment to investing in our people,” said Dr. Shawn D. Foster, Superintendent of Orangeburg County School District.

“Each of our past speakers has left a lasting imprint on our organization, and we are confident that this year’s convocation will continue that legacy, energizing our team and strengthening our collective commitment to excellence for every student we serve,” Dr. Foster said.

OCSD’s Back-to-School Convocation underscores the district’s dedication to fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous growth as it prepares to welcome students back for another promising school year.

Orangeburg County School District

The mission of Orangeburg County School District, the catalyst of innovation and excellence, is to ensure all students discover and develop their person, purpose, and platform through high-quality educational experiences distinguished by a culture of collaboration, equity, and inclusion; a creative learning environment with inspiring opportunities; a commitment to nurture the academic, physical, social, and emotional well-being of all. Visit us online at ocsdsc.org