Strengthening Dynamic Intercultural Learning

On the Furman University campus, a former Buddhist temple stands on a hill in a wooded area. Shipped from Japan in 2,400 pieces and reassembled by Japanese artisans, the Place of Peace is a visual centerpiece for the university's thriving Asian Studies program.

In 2008, The Duke Endowment awarded Furman a $17 million grant, $3 million of which will provide endowed professorships for the Department of Asian Studies. The new endowed positions will support the work of existing faculty and add new professorships in related fields. The bulk of the grant — $14 million — will be used to create a major scholarship program for out-of-state students. Named after a Furman alumnus, the Townes Scholars will be selected on the basis of academic achievement and overall accomplishment, with significant consideration given to financial need.

The gift represented the largest single cash commitment in Furman's history.