Celebrating the Impact of Philanthropy and the Zimmerli Professorship of Piano
Written by Amanda Mathis
The Carlos Moseley Chamber Music Series at Converse University began its final performance on a note that it is better to give than receive.
Before the thunderous applause for the artistry of Dr. Wael Farouk’s performance on April 20, 2026, another standing ovation occurred – for a gift that will benefit future generations of Converse students. A gift that had a vision for the future – much like Carlos Moseley himself.
Converse proudly announced the creation of the Zimmerli Professorship of Piano through a generous gift given by Mrs. Nelly Zimmerli.
“This Professorship…is an investment in excellence—a commitment to attracting and supporting dynamic faculty.”
President Boone J. Hopkins
“This Professorship is more than a named position,” said President Boone Hopkins. “It is an investment in excellence—a commitment to attracting and supporting dynamic faculty. And a promise to our students that they will learn, grow, and be inspired by the very best. It reminds us that this tradition is not static, but it is, in fact, living, evolving, and connected to the people who believe in Converse.”
The Epitome of Service
For decades, Nelly and her late husband, Kurt, have been true pillars of the Spartanburg community. Through their vision, leadership, and generosity, the Zimmerlis have helped shape our campus in profound and enduring ways. Their impact is woven into the very fabric of Converse, from their instrumental role in advancing a comprehensive campus master plan, to their leadership in championing the Steinway Initiative for the Petrie School of Music, and their transformative gift to the revitalization of Twichell Auditorium.
The Zimmerlis have consistently invested in what makes Converse exceptional. Kurt’s legacy of leadership, as a Trustee for two decades and later as a Life Trustee, helped guide more than $25 million in campus development, strengthening the physical and academic foundation of the university.
“Converse has such an incredible history of great piano teachers and students, and I’m more grateful than I can say to Nelly Zimmerli for a gift that will allow us to ensure that we’ll have a great piano teacher at Converse – forever,” said Dr. Christopher Vaneman, Dean of Converse’s School of the Arts.
“Faculty members are among our most important assets, and Nelly’s generosity remarkably continues the Zimmerli legacy.”
President Boone J. Hopkins
Nelly and Kurt established endowed funds and scholarships to ensure that future generations of students could pursue their dreams of a Converse education here and beyond the campus gates.
This recent gift is no exception.
“Faculty members are among our most important assets, and Nelly’s generosity remarkably continues the Zimmerli legacy,” said Hopkins. “Through the creation of the Zimmerli Professorship of Piano, she is helping us shape the future of Converse.”
About the Carlos Moseley Chamber Music Series
For decades, the Carlos Moseley Chamber Music Series has brought extraordinary artistry to the Converse campus and the Spartanburg community. This series stands as a testament to a bold and enduring belief that world-class music should be accessible not only to Converse students but also to the broader community. Carlos Moseley’s global influence and deep Spartanburg roots helped shape a tradition of musical excellence that continues to define Converse’s music program today. To learn more about the music series and upcoming performances, visit their web page.