Clearly Furman raises $505.5 million to propel university into its third century

When Furman University President Elizabeth Davis announced the public launch of Clearly Furman, the Campaign for Our Third Century, she said “This is Furman’s moment.”

“Our moment to come together, to propel our university into its third century with clear vision and the resources to meet our enormous potential,” Davis told the crowd gathered for the celebration in April 2023.

Three years later, the Furman community has answered that call.

Clearly Furman concluded with more than $505.5 million in gifts and commitments, surpassing its original $426 million goal by nearly $80 million. The most ambitious campaign in university history drew support from 27,152 donors and achieved 70% Alumni engagement, all of which will expand opportunities for generations of Paladins.

“From the beginning, our vision for Clearly Furman was to build a bigger tent for Furman’s future – one in which every member of our community felt invited, valued and connected to the campaign’s success,” said Robert Hill ’83, co-chair of the Clearly Furman campaign with his wife, Margaret Platt Hill ‘83.

The campaign’s broad invitation to participate brought in supporters from throughout the country, visiting 28 cities and hosting 32 national events.

Students return to classes for the fall semester’s first day of class on Aug. 25.

“The extraordinary response shows what is possible when the entire Furman family comes together around a shared belief in the university’s future,” Margaret said.

Behind every dollar is an investment in people, programs and experiences that advance Furman’s mission.

The campaign directed $188.7 million toward academic priorities, including scholarships, faculty and teaching excellence, academic programs, and facility improvements. Nearly $100 million was committed to Paladin athletics through scholarships and enhancements to athletic facilities. Another $26.5 million will fuel innovation and impact through Furman’s four institutes.

The influence of those gifts will extend far beyond the campaign itself. Donors established 302 endowed funds supporting scholarships, faculty, student experiences and university programs. Because endowments provide support in perpetuity, these funds will benefit Furman students and faculty for generations.

Friends and supporters of Furman University network at the Friends of Country Life reception in London in June 2026.

Donors also documented 380 planned gifts totaling $126.5 million. Each represents a lasting expression of confidence in Furman and extends the campaign’s impact well into the university’s third century.

Clearly Furman also broadened and strengthened the community of people invested in the university’s future. Nearly 16,000 donors made their first gift to Furman during the campaign, including 4,732 alumni. Among those who supported Furman both before and during the campaign, the average gift more than doubled.

“The Furman family made gifts, opened doors to internships, mentored students, and hosted events throughout the country and abroad to deepen and create new connections,” said Shon Herrick, vice president for development. “Our students deserve this support, and we will continue to build on this historic success by focusing our efforts to add more endowed scholarships and building an even stronger Furman network.”

The campaign’s success was made possible by a community united around a shared belief in Furman’s potential. Alumni, parents, families, faculty, staff, students, and friends came together to strengthen the university’s foundation and help ensure that future generations can learn, lead, and make a difference in the world.

Clearly Furman began with an invitation to meet a defining moment. It concludes with more resources, relationships, and momentum to carry Furman boldly into its third century.