Clearly Furman campaign continues to exceed expectations

Furman University’s alumni, parents and friends committed more than $52.7 million in philanthropic support during the 2025 fiscal year as part of Clearly Furman: The Campaign for our Third Century. This marks the first time in the university’s nearly 200-year history that more than $50 million was committed in two consecutive years. It is also the fourth consecutive year that philanthropy surpassed $40 million.

“Clearly Furman reflects the strength of our community and our shared commitment to the future,” said Shon Herrick, interim vice president for Development at Furman. “This year’s success is a testament to what we can accomplish together. In the final year of the Clearly Furman campaign, our focus is on scholarships, academic excellence and preparing for Furman’s bicentennial celebration.”

A Campaign Milestone—18 Months Ahead of Schedule

Furman President Elizabeth Davis speaks during the Clearly Furman Austin event hosted Jan. 21, 2025 at John Cullen’s home. Photo courtesy of Amigo Studio.

In another milestone Clearly Furman surpassed its original $426 million goal 18 months early. The campaign launched publicly in 2023; in October 2024 the Board of Trustees voted to increase the goal to $476 million by the conclusion of the campaign in June 2026. As of June 30, donors have committed more than $456 million.

More than 25,000 donors have participated in Clearly Furman. As a result, Furman’s goal for the number of donors rose from 22,500 to 25,800. Another goal, alumni engagement, was raised from its original 65% to 70%. So far, 69% of alumni have participated by mentoring, hiring Furman interns, speaking in a class, attending an event or giving. Robust alumni engagement speaks to the overall good health of the university, Herrick said.

Momentum Across the Country

Nearly 750 alumni, parents and friends attended 12 Clearly Furman events this year around the country, from Asheville, North Carolina, to Houston, Texas, to Washington D.C. At each gathering, faculty members shared how students are learning, growing and preparing for life beyond Furman. There’s a sense of shared celebration at these events, said Trustee John Cullen ’75, who hosted a Clearly Furman event at his home in Austin.

“Walking around Central Texas, nobody knows what you mean when you say, ‘The Bell Tower.’ At these events we have a shared experience, a shared language. We all know the cheers, the historic locations and we can challenge each other to give back to the institution that’s given us a great deal,” Cullen said.

Furman University Trustee John Cullen ’75 hosted the Clearly Furman Austin event on Jan. 21, 2025 at his home. Photo courtesy of Amigo Studio.

Scholarships with Impact

Among the many outcomes of this year’s giving, 28 new scholarship funds were established. Cullen supports several scholars financially and through personal mentorship.

“Furman creates an environment where students are encouraged and supported inside and outside the classroom,” Cullen said. “When you give back, it benefits everyone—the students, the university — and it makes you feel great.”

What Furman does better than most is provide students an environment where they’re encouraged and supported throughout their education, both in and out of the classroom, Cullen said. Donors provide that opportunity, but beyond that, they can serve as mentors and resources for the next generation of Paladins.

Expanding scholarship support remains the top priority for Furman’s Development team, as it improves access, boosts competitiveness and drives student success.

“This campaign is about more than numbers, it’s about creating opportunities,” said Cindy Davis, chair of the board of trustees. “From growing the endowment to increasing access through scholarships, we’re seeing donors respond to our mission and help us meet it with excellence.”

Learn more about how you can be part of the success of the Clearly Furman campaign.