DATE: July 10, 2008

CONTACT: Brian O’Rourke, (864) 656-5658
orourke@clemson.edu

WRITER: Angela Nixon, (864) 656-0382
anixon@clemson.edu

Creels recognized with Institutional Advancement Award

CLEMSON — Clemson University has recognized Jim and Carolyn Creel of Myrtle Beach with the Institutional Advancement Award.

The Creels, both Clemson alumni, have given much support to the university over the years as volunteers and major donors.  

“Jim and Carolyn exemplify what it means to be a part of the ‘Clemson family,’” said Neill Cameron, Clemson’s vice president for advancement. “This award recognizes them for their character, their service and their tireless devotion to Clemson University. Volunteers like the Creels play a very important role in shaping Clemson’s future.”  

Jim, a member of the Class of 1960 with a degree in industrial management, has served as an IPTAY representative; as president of the Horry County Clemson Club; on the Board of Visitors; on the College of Health, Education and Human Development advisory board; and as president of the Alumni National Council. He is a member of the Clemson University Foundation (CUF) board of directors, chairman of the board’s development committee and is a member of the executive committee. He also serves as a member of the board of directors of the Finance Corp., the governing body of the Conference Center and Inn complex.

Carolyn graduated in 1961 with an education degree. She was recruited by football coach Frank Howard on a full football scholarship to be a majorette and was Clemson’s first featured twirler. She has served on the CUF board of directors; was the first president of the CUF Real Estate Foundation; was a member of the President’s Home Renovation Committee; served on the Board of Visitors; served on the Women’s Advisory Council; and serves on the College of Health, Education and Human Development advisory board. She served on the Commission for the Future of Clemson University and co-chaired the committee for the College of Health, Education and Human Development.

Both of the Creels have received the Distinguished Service Award from the Clemson Alumni Association, the university’s highest alumni honor. Carolyn was the first female to receive the award.

Over the years, the Creels have supported many endowments to both academics and athletics. They were leaders in the WestZone capital campaign, and in 1988 led a challenge campaign in which they matched the gifts of new donors to the Clemson Fund.

The Creels have two children, who also attended Clemson: Alicia Creel Bame (Class of 1990) and Jim Creel Jr. (Class of 1986).

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