The L. D. Johnson Lecture series was established in honor of the life and work of the late L. D. Johnson, chaplain at Furman from February 17, 1967 to December 20, 1981. It is an appropriate honor, since for so many years he blessed the Furman community with his example, leadership, love and support.

Dr. Johnson often called on Furman, individually and collectively, to stop and consider who we are and what we are about. An article that appeared in the Asheville (N.C.) Citizen on December 23, 1981, a few days after his death, included these words which have inspired the title and substance of this lecture series: "Dr. L. D. Johnson knew what really mattered."

The lecture series each year brings to the forefront one Furman faculty member or administrator and one alum to discuss, in his or her own way, "What Really Matters." The lecturers for 2007-08 are Bishop Stacy Sauls '77, Episcopal Diocese of Lexington, Ky., Thursday, November 1, 7 p.m.; and Dr. Harry Shucker '66, Vice President for Student Services, Tuesday, April 29, 7 p.m. Both lectures will be held in Daniel Chapel. 

In 2001, Furman joined with Smyth & Helwys Publishing to produce a compilation of lectures in the What Really Matters? series from 1982-99.  The book is available from the publisher or through the Furman bookstore.

Dr. Shi's Column on "What Really Matters"

Stacy Sauls' ('77) Speech on "What Really Matters"

Tony Arrington's Speech on "What Really Matters"

James Edwards' Speech on "What Really Matters"

The next lecture in this series is Tuesday, March 26, 2009:

Dr. Brent Nelson (7:00 pm in Daniel Chapel).