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Furman University

Greenville, SC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Christo et Doctrinae(For Christ and Learning)

Wikipedia
1826
Founded
Private liberal arts university
Type
2,322
Total Students
2,283
Undergrad
160
Graduate
$886M
Endowment
(2025)
$58K
Tuition (In-State)
$58K
Tuition (Out-State)
$30K
Avg Net Price
53%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Graduation Rate
6-year
91%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Elizabeth Davis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Furman University

Furman University: A historic liberal arts gem fostering growth and critical thought.

Furman University stands as a distinguished private liberal arts institution, founded in 1826, deeply committed to an education guided by its motto, "Christo et Doctrinae" (For Christ and Learning). With a substantial endowment of $0.9 billion, Furman offers a rich academic environment designed to cultivate intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a profound sense of purpose among its students. It's a place where students are encouraged to engage deeply with their studies and their community, preparing them for a life of impact.

The university's journey began in humble settings as Furman Academy and Theological Institution, experiencing several relocations and even closures during significant historical periods, such as the Civil War. Its resilience and evolution led to its chartering as Furman University in 1850 and its eventual settlement in the vibrant city of Greenville, South Carolina, in 1851. This rich history has shaped an institution that values both tradition and progress.

In the 21st century, Furman continues to invest in its student experience, as seen with the 2012 opening of the Herring facility for continuing education and the significant renovation of the Trone Student Center. Furthermore, Furman has shown remarkable leadership in confronting its past, notably through the 2018 report "Seeking Abraham" from the Task Force on Slavery and Justice. This initiative led to meaningful actions like the renaming of Furman Hall and the erection of a statue honoring Joseph Vaughn, the university's first Black student. These efforts underscore Furman's dedication to an inclusive and historically conscious learning environment for all.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1826, making it one of the oldest private liberal arts universities in the South.
  • Operates with a robust endowment of $0.9 billion, supporting its comprehensive academic programs.
  • Guided by the motto "Christo et Doctrinae" (For Christ and Learning), emphasizing a holistic educational approach.
  • Features the modern Trone Student Center, expanded and renovated in 2012 through a $3.5 million gift.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to historical reconciliation, including renaming Furman Hall and erecting a statue for Joseph Vaughn, its first Black student, following recommendations from the 2018 Task Force on Slavery and Justice.

Timeline

1825
Incorporated as Furman Academy and Theological Institution in Edgefield.
1828
Held its first classes on January 15.
1850
Chartered by the state legislature as Furman University.
1851
Relocated to Greenville, South Carolina.
1861
University closed due to the Civil War, reopening in 1866.
2012
Opened the Sarah and Gordon Herring facility for continuing education and renovated the Trone Student Center.
2018
Task Force on Slavery and Justice issued 'Seeking Abraham' report, leading to historical acknowledgments.
2018
James C. Furman Hall was renamed Furman Hall, and a statue was erected to honor Joseph Vaughn.
🏛️
200 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Elizabeth Davis
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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