Capital Projects

Upon entering the gates of Converse University, one of the things you will notice is how beautiful the campus and its buildings are. Converse is proud of its campus, listed on the National Register of Historic places, but also recognizes that the changing needs of our students and community require ongoing renovations, upgrades and expansions.

All capital improvements at Converse are funded through donations specifically solicited for each project. A capital project gift can support the construction of new and renovated facilities or assist in the maintenance of existing structures.

There is always a need for funding to support the upkeep and preservation of our campus. If you are interested in supporting capital projects, please contact Mike Kennedy, Associate Vice President for Philanthropy, at 864.596.9390 or mike.kennedy@converse.edu.

Recently completed projects include:

• Zimmerli Performance Center 

For decades, Converse University Life Trustee Kurt Zimmerli and his wife, Nelly, have generously provided leadership and financial support for the arts at Converse and in the Spartanburg community. In 2019 the Zimmerli’s championed a campaign to renovate Twichell Auditorium, a world-class performance hall.

• Fleming Hall 

A permanent tribute to former Converse President Betsy Fleming was formally dedicated and named Fleming Hall in her honor in 2017. The name was selected by alumna and Converse Trustee Ellen Lanford Asherman ’85 and her husband, Philip, whose generous contributions to the College have had significant impact on the College’s growth and success.

• The Heath Apartment Complex 

Converse’s award-winning apartment housing facility enables seniors to enjoy an independent living environment right on campus. Howard Hall, Kate Hall and Zimmerli Common – collectively known as The Heath – were specifically designed to advance community and enhance a vibrant student life at Converse.

• The Marsha H. Gibbs Field House 

Dedicated in September 2014, the brand-new $3 million Marsha H. Gibbs Field House provides a top-level experience in collegiate athletics and includes such amenities as five locker rooms, a weight training facility, indoor/outdoor golf training facilities, an academic support center, a rooftop terrace and a soccer/lacrosse press box.

• Renovations of Historic Pell 

In September 2014, the Converse community gathered in front of the 123-year-old Pell Hall to celebrate the completion of its renovation as part of the First-Year Experience. Freshman residents welcomed the community inside to explore the remodeled rooms. The $9 million renovation was made possible by more than 400 donors whose gifts ranged from $5 to $1 million.

• The Johnson Plaza 

In November 2014, local leaders, students, family members and friends came together at Converse to dedicate a new plaza in honor of local philanthropists Susan “Susu” Phifer Johnson ’65 and her husband, George Dean Johnson Jr.

Meet Our Donors

Giving MattersOpens new window

Loyalty & Commitment: Stacey Mulligan ’01

Stacey Mulligan ’01, a technical writer and editor at the National Archives and Records Administration in Washington, DC, was a double major in Theatre and English. A faithful and committed …

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Converse Establishes First Generation Student Endowment in Honor of President Krista L. Newkirk

In recognition and gratitude of her dynamic and visionary leadership, the Converse Board of Trustees has established a scholarship endowment in honor of President Krista L. Newkirk, 10th President of …

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Converse College Receives $2.5 Million Gift

Converse College has received a gift of more than $2.5 million. The gift from the George Earnest Burwell, Jr. Charitable Trust will fund a project to be announced at a …

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Converse Celebrates the Life and Contributions of Life Trustee Kurt Zimmerli

The Converse community celebrates the life and legacy of longtime supporter, philanthropist, and Converse Life Trustee Kurt Zimmerli, who passed on May 30, 2021.  Mr. Zimmerli is survived by his …

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