Clemson University Foundation marks 90 years of impact at reunion celebration

Alumni and donors gather to honor legacy and inspire next chapter of giving

On Thursday, June 19, Clemson University hosted a milestone celebration marking the 90th anniversary of the Clemson University Foundation (CUF). Held at the Nieri Family Alumni and Visitors Center, the evening brought together past and present CUF board members and University leaders to honor the Foundation’s legacy and reaffirm its commitment to elevating Clemson’s future.

“This evening was a powerful reflection of our shared purpose,” said Karen McCauley, president and CEO of CUF. “It honored the individuals whose vision and generosity have shaped Clemson’s growth and set the stage for the impact we’ll create together in the years to come.”

A major highlight was the unveiling of the Orange Steinway piano, made possible through a joint gift from Bob and Kaye Stanzione and Mark and Katherine Love. This performance-quality Steinway — now the permanent centerpiece of the Nieri Family Alumni and Visitors Center — was introduced with a duet by Dr. Linda Li-Bleuel, professor of music, and Kaye Stanzione, a longtime arts advocate and Cornerstone Partner.

Cheryl Holland, current CUF board chair, opened the formal program with remarks of gratitude for the many volunteer leaders who have served over the years. Clemson Trustee Cheri Phyfer-Kubu, who also chairs the Fiercely Forward Campaign Committee, delivered an energizing update on the campaign’s early momentum.

“Fiercely Forward is a call to action, and this gathering reminded us just how powerful our Clemson Family is when we answer that call together,” Phyfer-Kubu said.

CUF President and CEO McCauley guided attendees through a digital journey of the Foundation’s milestones since its establishment in 1933 — from its original mission to endow educational opportunities to launching transformative initiatives like CU-ICAR, the Clyde V. Madren Center and the Tomorrow Begins Today Scholarship.

That unrestricted scholarship supports students across the University and demonstrates the Foundation’s enduring commitment to access and opportunity, is now approaching $1 million in support, a milestone that reflects the collective generosity and forward-looking spirit of the Clemson Family.

The Foundation’s endowment, which surpassed $1 billion in recent years, has played a pivotal role in supporting Clemson’s rise as one of the nation’s most respected public research universities.

“Our legacy is one of visionary leadership, relentless stewardship and shared purpose,” McCauley said. “And our future holds even greater promise.”

Brian O’Rourke, vice president for Advancement, closed the program by challenging guests to consider their role in shaping Clemson’s next chapter.

“The Clemson University Foundation has spent 90 years launching lives of significance,” O’Rourke said. “Now it’s up to all of us to keep moving Fiercely Forward.”

With the Tomorrow Begins Today Scholarship nearing its $1 million milestone, and the momentum of the Fiercely Forward campaign accelerating, the Foundation invites all members of the Clemson Family to help write the next chapter of this remarkable story.