Meet Cary Perkins ’96: 2026-2027 Alumni Association Board President
Cary graduated from Converse in 1996 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and went on to receive a Master of Architecture from Clemson University. A licensed architect and partner with McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture (MPS), Cary has specific expertise in strategic campus planning and the design of long-life buildings on K-12 and college and university campuses. Her work has been recognized with design awards from the American Institute of Architects and the Association for Learning Environments, including Hartness Performing Arts Center at Christ Church Episcopal School and Rosalind S. Richardson Center for the Arts at Wofford College. Holding special significance, the renovation of Cudd Hall at Converse was recognized as the Best Small Project in the Southeast by Engineering News-Record (ENR).
Cary currently serves as Executive Director of Design for MPS. As a member of the firm’s senior management team, she provides leadership in design process and strategy, supporting the delivery of high-quality, innovative projects born of a collaborative culture shared by over 500 team members across 11 studio locations.
Why did you choose to attend Converse, and what stands out about your experience?
When I was in high school, I visited a childhood friend during her freshman year at Converse. I had the opportunity to run with the cross-country team and get to know other students. I absolutely fell in love with the culture on campus and still connect with friends I made that weekend. Converse immediately became my top choice, and I filled out the application on the flight home.
What does stepping into the role of Alumni Association Board (AAB) President mean to you personally?
My time at Converse was foundational – the friendships, perspective, and sense of purpose cultivated on this campus are lifelong gifts. I have found that serving alumni through the AAB has been an opportunity to help others remain connected to what Converse means to them and to participate in the Converse of today. It’s a privilege to advance and expand on the work of the Alumni Association as President of our amazing Board.
Converse has incredible leadership and clarity in vision, purpose, and decision-making.
Cary Perkins ’96
Why do you feel it’s important to give back to Converse?
It’s a difficult time for higher education. We have all seen other private, liberal arts colleges struggle in recent years, including our friend and neighbor, Limestone University. We are so fortunate that Converse has incredible leadership and clarity in vision, purpose, and decision-making. But we should stay mindful that alumni involvement and support are also critical aspects of the overall health of the university and that each of us plays a part in that.
“Automating a recurring gift is a simple way to contribute to the longevity of our alma mater.”
Cary Perkins ’96
What’s one simple way alumni can get involved right now?
If we could bottle up all the love and fond memories associated with Converse and translate that into alumni giving, we would be off the charts. I would challenge every alum to automate a recurring monthly gift to Converse in any size that fits their life and budget – no matter the amount, the percentage of alumni giving is an important metric for a university.
Automating a recurring gift is a simple way to contribute to the longevity of our alma mater.
What is your vision for the Alumni Association’s role—both as a community and as a force for meaningful change?
There is something special about the college experience on a small campus that leaves us with a unique sense of community and interdependence. That foundation carries with us through our lives and is deepened for current and future generations by a robust and active alumni base – whether through philanthropic support, involvement with students in our professional organizations, or by connecting with each other and with Converse. The Alumni Association strives to help all Converse alumni find their place in that effort, to stay connected, and to be a part of Converse today and into the future.
If you are looking for a way to engage with Converse, don’t hesitate to reach out to any Alumni Association Board member. We are here to help you become and stay connected with purpose and meaning.