Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School recently welcomed distinguished guests, including Congressman Ro Khanna, Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson, Mayor Michael Butler, and Attorney Aaron Greene, a proud Orangeburg native and graduate of Orangeburg- Wilkinson High School. The visit provided students with an inspiring and informative experience centered on the future of technology, education, and social justice.

Congressman Ro Khanna, who represents the 17th District in California and the tech hub of Silicon Valley, captivated students with his insights into the ever-evolving tech industry, particularly highlighting fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency. Khanna emphasized the opportunities in tech for students, especially those attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). He discussed new educational programs developed by Silicon Valley companies, offering 18-month credential programs with $5,000 scholarships. These programs  open  doors  to  lucrative  job  opportunities,  with  some  salaries  starting  at $65,000 annually, and the flexibility of remote work.

While in Orangeburg, Congressman Khanna also planned to visit Claflin University to explore these initiatives further and encourage students to take advantage of this pathway to success. “This is a pathway for our youth to thrive in the tech industry,” said Khanna, urging students to seize these life-changing opportunities.

Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson, an advocate for civil rights and social justice, spoke about creating more job opportunities for South Carolinians. “My mission is to help open doors, ensuring access to better jobs and allowing more people to live out their dreams,” said Jackson. Jackson also highlighted his efforts to address gun violence, a critical issue affecting communities across the nation. "We need to get the guns off our streets and make our communities safer for everyone," Jackson remarked.

Mayor Butler expressed his commitment to supporting efforts that would benefit the local community. Greene, now a human rights attorney, reflected on his return to his alma mater and his work alongside Congressmen Khanna and Congressman Jackson. He encouraged students to pursue their passions while positively impacting their communities. “I’m proud to be back home, and it’s my goal to inspire the next generation to seek justice and equality for all,” said Greene.

The students of Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School eagerly engaged with the guests, asking various thoughtful and intuitive questions. Their curiosity and ambition were evident, as they wanted to learn more about opportunities facing their futures.