The Rt Rev William Skilton Receives Honorary Degree of Doctor of Divinity at The Citadel

In a remarkable career that has spanned four decades, Bishop William Jones Skilton has selflessly and tirelessly worked to help others and serve God.

A native of Cuba, he came to the United States at age 16 to work in a North Carolina camp, intending to stay only for the summer. But when the political unrest prevented his return home, he was taken under the wing of Citadel alumnus William Workman and his wife.

He graduated from The Citadel in 1962 and earned a degree in Theology from the University of the South. In 1965, he and his wife went to the Dominican Republic as missionaries during a time of revolution and instability. He made a difference, founding an Episcopal high school that still provides students with a quality education. After helping with the election and consecration of the Dominican Republic’s first Episcopal bishop, the Skiltons returned to South Carolina.

Bishop Skilton then worked with campus ministries, primarily serving St Alban’s Chapel at The Citadel and the College of Charleston. He was the canon chaplain of the Cathedral of St Luke and St Paul in Charleston and the rector of Holy Trinity. Following a second assignment in the Dominican Republic, Bishop Skilton became rector of St Thomas in North Charleston in 1988. In 1995, he was elected to the Episcopate, and in 1996 he was consecrated as a bishop.

His responsibilities as Suffragan Bishop of South Carolina include overseeing the Episcopal Church’s work in world missions, social ministries, college ministries and clergy development. His work with many boards includes serving as president of the National Board of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge and president of the board of the Christian Action Council.

In recognition of his service and commitment to the spiritual development of all people, The Citidal Board of Visitors presented Bishop Skilton with a honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity at Commencement on April 30, 2006.

[Thanks to The Citadel for offering the use of this photo.]