Overview
The Carolina Guardian Society is a recognition group for those who have included the University of South Carolina or its affiliated Foundations in the estate plans or life income gifts. It's name is inspired by the quote from Thomas Cooper, President of South Carolina College, given on December 1, 1825
"I pray you, become guardians of this. alma mater so. that to have been a graduate of the
South Carolina College shall everywhere be considered as a fair passport to the worlds esteem."
- Thomas Cooper, President, South Carolina College, December 1, 1823
Thomas Cooper, the second president of the University of South Carolina, was 61 when he arrived on the Columbia campus in 1820 as the new professor of chemistry. As one of the most brilliant individuals ever to teach at South Carolina College, he did much to give the college a national reputation.
Born in England, Cooper had wanted to be a physician, but he became a lawyer at his father’s insistance. However, he continued to study medicine, chemistry, and philosophy. By the early 1790s, he had established himself as a political philosopher,
writing essays opposing the slave trade and
supporting the French Revolution. By 1794, Cooper
had become disenchanted with England and moved to Pennsylvania to practice law. A devoted follower of Thomas Jefferson, he published essays and letters condemning
John Adams and the Federalist Party. Jefferson considered Cooper to be one of the ablest thinkers in America.
Cooper later became a state judge, but resigned and resumed his work in chemistry and medicine. He was appointed professor of chemistry at Dickinson College and later the University of Pennsylvania.
Cooper accepted a position at South Carolina College in 1820. The college trustees then asked him to lead the college while they searched for a successor to Jonathan Maxcy, the first president. Later, the trustees named Cooper to the post.
As president, Cooper restored an emphasis on the classics and enhanced the academic reputation of South Carolina College.
Along with his many achievements, the outspoken and revolutionary Cooper stirred controversy. He stepped down as president of the college in 1834. He remained intellectually active, though, as scholar and leader and spent his last years editing the statutes of South Carolina. He died in 1839.
How to Join
The following types of commitments, confirmed in writing
and subject to certain restrictions, qualify you for membership in Carolina Guardian Society:
If you have already included the University of South Carolina or its affiliated Foundations in
a bequest or other planned gift, we hope you will let us know by filling
out the member profile form. Your willingness to be listed as a member
of Carolina Guardian Society encourages
others to follow your example. We acknowledge and respect those who wish
to remain anonymous, but we urge you to let us know of your plans on
a confidential basis in any case. It supports the University of South Carolina or its affiliated Foundations’s
planning for the future. Of course, if you have not yet included the University of South Carolina or its affiliated Foundations or its affiliated foundations in
your plans and you would like to explore the best options for you and
your family, do not hesitate to contact us.
We would be glad to assist you on a confidential basis and without any
obligation.
Benefits of Membership
In an effort to preserve your legacy for the purpose
it is intended, we have chosen a few simple ways to recognize your commitment.
Each new member will receive a certificate of appreciation and letter
of thanks from the President of the University of South Carolina or its affiliated Foundations,
along with a handsome recognition gift that we hope you will treasure
for years to come.
In addition to these small expressions of gratitude,
we hope you will allow us to recognize you as a member of the Carolina Guardian Society in
our annual donor recognition publication. Your inclusion in this publication
encourages others to join in this important effort. An annual recognition luncheon for new and current members of the Carolina Guardian Society to be held at The Zone in Williams-Brice Stadium in February. Lastly, as a member
of Carolina Guardian Society, you will receive timely information,
tips, and ongoing professional gift planning services from the Office
of Planned Giving.
Please contact our office to ensure that your deferred gift is designated properly.
The University of South Carolina
Office of Gift Planning
University Development
1600 Hampton Street, Suite 738
Columbia, SC 29208
Phone: (803) 777-4196
Fax: (803) 777-9708
Email: giftplan@mailbox.sc.edu
|
