HARTSVILLE, SC (March 18, 2022) - Coker University President Natalie J. Harder was a featured speaker at the State of Education Breakfast recently hosted by the Hartsville Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Harder joined South Carolina Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman, Florence-Darlington Technical College President Jermaine Ford, Darlington County School District Superintendent Tim Newman, and Governor's School for Science and Mathematics President Danny Dorsel in updating the region's business community on where higher education and K-12 currently stands.

Harder focused her remarks on Coker's recent push to develop programs aligned with the needs of the business community, highlighting efforts to add four new nursing and health sciences programs at Coker this fall. She also emphasized Coker's commitment to ensure that all Coker students graduate with career knowledge - such as internships or experiential learning.

Earlier this year, Coker University opened its Career Center to ensure that all students, from freshmen through graduation, have access to information and opportunities that align with their career goals.