Welcome to the Bell Tower Ball 2026 Honorees Reveal

Furman’s Bell Tower Ball is our annual moment of celebration, gratitude, and inspiration. Our opportunity to honor alumni, parents, and friends whose dedication to service, leadership, and giving strengthens our community and advances Furman’s mission.  

We’re proud to introduce the Bicentennial 2026 honorees. Each honoree exemplifies the power of service beyond self through generosity of time, talent, and resource bringing the spirit of philanthropy to life in our shared Furman family. 

Ball room
Furman University sign glows above a champaign wall
Furman University sign glows above a champaign wall
Bell Tower Ball attendees pose for a photo while enjoying drinks before the main program
Bell Tower Ball attendees pose for a photo while enjoying drinks before the main program
Elaborate table decorations in the ballroom
Elaborate table decorations in the ballroom
Guests dancing joyfully on the dance floor after the main program
Guests dancing joyfully on the dance floor after the main program
Bell Tower Ball attendees pose for a photo while enjoying drinks before the main program
Bell Tower Ball attendees pose for a photo while enjoying drinks before the main program
Exquisite ballroom decorations and ambiance
Exquisite ballroom decorations and ambiance
Bell Tower Ball attendees dance as a band plays after the main program
Bell Tower Ball attendees dance as a band plays after the main program

Bicentennial 2026 Honorees

  • Carl F. Kohrt Distinguished Alumni Award: John Cothran ’54
  • Gordon L. Blackwell Service Award: Dr. Rachelle Thompson ’92
  • Wayne and Rubye Reid Alumni Career Services Award: Fiona Bloom ’12 and Angela Acampora ’14
  • Tom A. Triplitt Young Alumni Award: Nalisha Henry ’06
  • Honorary Alumni Award: Coach Debbie Southern
  • Engaged Parent Award: Steven and Donna Barksdale P’06, P’12
  • University Partnership Award: Greenville Chamber of Commerce

 

Read about our 2025 award winners

Be a Leader in Furman’s Future

Members of the Bell Tower Society have been instrumental in making Furman what it is today: an ambitious university focused on providing Paladins with knowledge, experience and confidence to lead in a changing world.  

As we look ahead to Furman’s third century, support from leadership donors will help create the scholarships, programs and experiences that will define Furman’s future excellence.  

Make your impact and join us.

To qualify for this year’s exclusive Bell Tower Ball, make your leadership gift by December 31. 

Giving is quick and easy:

furman.edu/clearly-furman/donate

Or mail your gift to:
Furman University
Annual Giving
3300 Poinsett Highway
Greenville, SC 29613