CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Former South Carolina Governor and Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley was honored by The Citadel Republican Society on Thursday for her leadership and contributions to the state and country.
Haley was awarded Nathan Hale Patriot Award, which recognizes a state, local, or national official for their leadership. She is the first woman to receive the honor.
“It was the privilege of a lifetime to take my love for the state I was raised in, and I was blessed to serve in the United Nations,” Haley said.
Leaders of the Citadel Republican Society say Haley’s worldwide advocacy for causes they support made her the obvious choice for this award.
“She brought Boeing here and she was a steadfast champion for conservative values when she was governor and as an ambassador for the UN. She stood up next to North Korea, China and the other communist countries.”
John Mace McGrath, President of The Citadel Republican Society.
Local, state, and national leaders spoke at the ceremony.
“She was an incredible leader during her time as a governor for South Carolina,” said U.S. Senator Lindsay Graham.
Haley said she’s grateful for her Lowcountry roots and that’s what pushes her to make sure there are more good days on the way for the Palmetto State.
“Everything I am and everything that I will ever be was shaped by the people of the Palmetto State.”
Former SC Governor, UN Ambassador Nikki Haley
The Republican Society is the largest club on The Citadel’s campus and has awarded past national and state leaders such as President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.