Furman University honors 61 years since Joseph Vaughn broke barriers
As Furman’s first Black undergraduate student, Vaughn paved the way for many more ambitious, achieving students to call themselves Paladins.
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Joseph Vaughn Day 2026 takes place Jan. 30
Celebrate the life and legacy of Furman’s first Black undergraduate student at 12:30 p.m. on Joseph Vaughn Plaza in front of the Duke Library.
Joseph Vaughn Day gains media coverage on WYFF, FOX Carolina
Local TV news stations brought crews to cover the annual Joseph Vaughn Day celebration that honors the first African American to enroll at Furman University.
Joseph Vaughn Day 2025 will take place January 31
Depending on weather, people will gather on Joseph Vaughn Plaza at 12:15 for the Walk of Honor to Daniel Chapel. This year's Idella Glenn '84 Award from the Black Alumni Association will be presented to Jackie Carson '00.
Joseph Allen Vaughn
Read the biography of Furman's first Black student.
The Statue
The bronze statue honors the historic courage of Joseph Vaughn.
The Sculptor
Sculptor Steven Whyte was commissioned to create a statue of Joseph Vaughn ’68, Furman’s first African American undergraduate student.
The Plaza
Joseph Vaughn Plaza establishes a place for reflection and celebration of those who helped to make the university a more equitable and inclusive place.
Joseph Vaughn Day Timeline
Joseph Vaughn Statue Unveiling
On April 16, 2021, Furman unveiled the Joseph Vaughn statue in front of the Duke Library on the new Joseph Vaughn Plaza. Read the news release. Opening and Closing Musical Selections - Greenville Baha'i Community...
Continue Reading >Joseph Vaughn Day Commemoration and Walk
On January 29, 2020, hundreds of people gathered around the steps of James B. Duke Library as the Furman University Gospel Ensemble filled the crisp winter air with harmonies to begin Joseph Vaughn Day, honoring...
Continue Reading >Board of Trustees approves Joseph Vaughn Day and Statue
On May 18, 2019, The Furman University Board of Trustees approved the recommendation made by the board’s Special Committee on Slavery and Justice to have an annual Joseph Vaughn commemorative day and celebration. The university...
Continue Reading >Statue Unveiling Videos
Video Reflections
Before the Joseph Vaughn statue is installed, we asked several people what having the statue on campus means to them...
