Anderson University Receives $8 Million Donation

Anderson University awarded 230 degrees, the largest in the school's history, and also received an $8 million donation at Saturday's commencement exercises.

By: Rob Landreth | News Channel 7
Published: May 02, 2009

Anderson University received a welcome gift at its commencement ceremonies Saturday morning.

University President Dr. Evans Whitaker announced that the school is the recipient of an $8 million gift from the late David T. Clamp, of Honea Path. The gift Evans announced is designated for the university's growing graduate programs and to honor the donation the school will name its recently established graduate program in ministry after Clamp.

"David Clamp was one of the finest men I have ever known," Whitaker said in a prepared statement released by the university. "He had a lifelong passion for Christian higher education and Anderson University in particular. His interest led him to commit to help Anderson successfully launch its graduate programs. He was particularly interested in providing avenues of study that prepare men and women for the ministry."

During commencement ceremonies, Anderson University awarded 230 undergraduate and graduate degrees, the largest in the school's history. Clamp was also honored posthumously with an honorary doctor of humanities degree, while Clamp's wife, Jane, was awarded an honorary doctor of humanities degree for her generosity in the gift.

South Carolina State Representative Dan Cooper also received an honorary doctor of humanities degree for his outstanding public service and support of students pursuing college degrees in prvate and public education.

"He (Cooper) discharged his public duties with a rare heart and temperament of a true statesman," Whitaker said.