Since the late 1980s, Furman has had various iterations of committees that have sought to prepare students for an increasingly diverse workplace and to foster an academic and work environment where people from different backgrounds can thrive. In 2015, President Elizabeth Davis established a standing presidential committee, and today the THRIVE (Toward a Healthy, Resilient, Inclusive, and Vibrant Environment) Committee continues its work of creating a campus culture that reflects the character and values of the institution.
The committee, comprised of dedicated faculty, staff, and students, addresses a range of campus priorities, including mentoring, retention, professional development, accessibility, and promoting a sense of belonging.
2025-26 members:
Awards and Grants
Jordan Bounds (chair), Megan Dodgens, Kevin Kao, Courtney Firman-Watkins
Disability and Accessibility Affairs
Judy Bagley (chair), Ryan Fisher, Grace Freundlich, Todd Janssen, Melissa Nichols
Faculty Inclusion, Retention, and Mentoring (FIRM)
Onarae Rice (chair), Kylie Fisher, Jessica Hennessey, Tori Montrose, Mike Svec, Mai Xiong-Gum
International Affairs
Alex Akulli (chair), Sri Chandrasekaran, Nancy Georgiev, Carole Salmon
LGBTQ+ Affairs
Adi Dubash (chair), Chad Boltz, Scott Henderson, Gwen Hirko, Kevin Kao, Allyssa Nance, Lauren Pollino, Jake Gary, London Sullens
Staff Recruitment, Advancement, and Training
Bonnie Johnson (chair), Sharen Beaulieu, Danielle Hernandez, Rod Kelley, Erika Calle Tamayo
If you need more information, please contact us.
