Clemson’s Cornerstone donors are an extraordinary group of visionaries whose dedication drives the University’s growth, energizing current initiatives while laying the groundwork for future success. These pivotal gifts not only empower Clemson today but also light a path toward a future rich with opportunity and innovation. These incredible gifts do more than shape the physical landscape — they provide opportunities for expanded learning, retaining top faculty, groundbreaking research and the freedom to imagine a bold future. The generosity of Cornerstone donors is a testament to their belief in Clemson’s mission and the vital role the University plays in our shared future.
In its first decade, the Cornerstone Program has led the way for Clemson — building key programs, scholarships and facilities and funding pivotal research and faculty. This special group of bold and visionary donors lays a foundation for Clemson’s next stage of growth. Here is a glance at the collective impact of these special donors on our campus:
Cornerstone gifts are more than incredible generosity. They are calls to action. These gifts ignite the changemakers, leaders and brilliant minds across our campus, empowering these forces for good to launch into lives of purpose and significance, to conduct cutting-edge research that unlocks the mysteries of human potential, and to forge ingenuity and innovation into a better tomorrow for all. These gifts are part of a movement to unleash the potential within each of us and to elevate our University — moving Clemson Fiercely Forward.
Founded in 2014 and built by visionaries through their one-time gifts of $2.5 million or more, members of Clemson’s Cornerstone program have made momentous gifts across our Academic, Athletic and One Clemson initiatives.
In its second decade, Clemson’s premier giving program has expanded to include three unique giving levels. The Cornerstone Program is poised to accelerate Fiercely Forward, providing both the connectivity and the strength behind our University’s mission to impact South Carolina, our nation and the world.
| Michael and Robyn Nieri |
| Billy and Ann Powers |
| Don and *Hayden Quattlebaum |
| Mark and Kathryn Richardson |
| Dave and Lynette Snow |
| Jim and Candace Brown |
| Anonymous |
| Dan and Nancy Garrison |
| Jim and Julee Kaplan |
| Mark and Janet Mitchell |
| Micky and Amy Scott |
| Bob and Kaye Stanzione |
| Brian and Jeanne Penner |
| Betty Sheppard Poe |
| Bart and Marian Proctor |
| Charlie and Suzie Barker |
| JB and Sara Brown |
| Tom and Karen Chapman |
| Joe and Gretchen Erwin |
| Bo and Donna Gossett |
| Milt & Betty Holcombe |
| Rob and Maigan Lincks |
| Barry and Mary Mack |
| Pennington and Katie Nieri |
| Patrick and Jess Nieri |
| Bill and Laura Pelham |
| Cheri Phyfer |
| David and Sandra Sprouse |
| Jimmy and Toni Talton |
| Joe and Cathy Turner |
| Bill and Lynne Burton |
| Dan and Rhonda Cathy |
| Ross and Jamie Cathy |
| Gerald and Candi Glenn |
| Jon Glover |
| Bob and Pat Jordan |
| Vince and Pam Marino |
| Gregory and Ansley Masters |
| Tony and Stephanie Mathis |
| Nicky McCarter Jr. |
| Stuart and Leigh Anne McWhorter |
| Lewis and Ree Miller |
| Allen and Touria Reeves |
| Andrew and Julie Smart |
| Joe and Bobbi Swann |
| Mike and Kim Watt |
| Steve and Pam Watt |
| - |
| - |
| Deb Conklin |
| Dan and Nancy Garrison |
| Bill and *Pam Hendrix |
| Michael and Robyn Nieri |
| Mitch and Carla Norville |
| Brook and Pam Smith |
| *Melvin and *Dollie Younts |
*Asterisk indicates deceased
Rosters last updated March 2026
Thanks to Cornerstone donors, Clemson continues to transform lives, uphold high standards and create a legacy of excellence. The support of this incredibly dedicated group of donors is shaping a brighter future for generations to come. Read how below.
To learn more about the Athletic Cornerstone program, visit the IPTAY Cornerstone website.
