THEN: Experiencing the South as a “Connecticut Yankee”

As a “Connecticut Yankee” and transfer student to Furman in September 1981, I was still getting used to the South while learning the rigor of my new university.

Furman had everything I was looking for in a college: small classes, beautiful campus and lots of ways to get involved. I quickly found the Collegiate Educational Service Corps (now Heller Service Corps) where I began my campus involvement. That eventually evolved into a role with student government. And I loved working in the dining hall and as a residence advisor. I found a lifelong passion in the young adult population, leading to graduate study in higher education.

Like my public education experience in Newtown, Connecticut, my teachers at Furman were exceptional. I learned how to think deeply about subjects in the classroom and in conversations with professors and staff outside of class. But even more important was finding an appreciation for critical thinking and compassion for all people. Those understandings guided me during my time here and are the core ingredients in an examined life. I graduated from Furman ready to serve others, and what brought me to Furman was what made me stay right here in South Carolina.

My experiences at Furman have influenced so much of what my life has become. Without question, however, my favorite Furman gift has been the lasting treasure of love and friendship. My husband, Alston ’84, and I have been blessed by four children, all of whom have graduated from Furman (Miller ’13, Sarah Katherine “SK” ’15, Emma ’18 and Mary ’21). And like their parents before them, each has taken away best friends for life from their alma mater.

Our Furman experience has shaped our family. We are grateful for the Paladin community!

About the Author

Susan Williamson DeVenny ’84 is the president & CEO of the Arras Foundation, a health legacy philanthropy in Lancaster, South Carolina. Her husband, Alston DeVenny ’84, is a lawyer and mayor of Lancaster.