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.

2026-27

Awards and Grants

Courtney Firman-Watkins (chair), Megan Dodgens, Tuğçe Kayaal

Faculty Inclusion, Retention, and Mentoring (FIRM)

Jessica Hennessey (co-chair), Kylie Fisher (co-chair), Tori Montrose, Mai Xiong-Gum, Tim Piper

International Affairs

Alex Akulli (chair), Sri Chandrasekaran, Nancy Georgiev, Carole Salmon

LGBTQ+ Affairs

Adi Dubash (chair), Lauren Pollino, Gwen Hirko, Chad Boltz, Kylie Fisher, Alyssa Nance, Scott Henderson, Kevin Kao

Learning, Engagement, Advocacy and Development for Staff (LEADS)

Jocelyn Boulware-Bruce (chair), Rod Kelley, Erika Calle Tamayo, Tammy Wilmot

Black Excellence Advocacy, Community, Organizing Network (BEACON)

Kaniqua Robinson (chair), Chandra Dillard, Carmellow Gambrill, Rod Kelley, Onarae Rice, Ashley Simmons, Alexis Carter Thomas

Disability and Accessibility Affairs

Melissa Nichols (chair), Ryan Fisher, Grace Freundlich, Todd Janssen, Judy Bagley

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