FMU to Honor Governor McMaster and Carl Humphries at Commencement

News Summary

Francis Marion University (FMU) will award honorary degrees to South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and HopeHealth CEO Carl Humphries during upcoming commencement ceremonies on May 2 and 3, 2023. The events celebrate their significant contributions to the community and the state’s progress, alongside recognizing the achievements of FMU’s graduating class. Governor McMaster showcases public service commitment, while Humphries will also give the commencement address, highlighting his transformative leadership in healthcare.

Florence, South Carolina – Francis Marion University (FMU) is set to honor distinguished individuals at its upcoming commencement ceremonies, slated for May 2 and May 3, 2023. The university will confer honorary degrees on South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Carl Humphries, CEO of HopeHealth, recognizing their significant contributions to the state and community.

During the ceremony on May 3, Governor McMaster will be awarded an honorary degree, continuing his commitment to public service as South Carolina’s highest-ranking official. He was first elected to his full term in November 2018 and successfully reelected in November 2022, demonstrating his popular support within the state. Prior to his governorship, McMaster served in various leadership positions, including lieutenant governor and attorney general. His extensive legal background includes serving as a U.S. attorney and as a member of the U.S. Army Reserves.

On May 2, Carl Humphries will not only give the commencement address but will also receive an honorary degree in recognition of his transformative leadership at HopeHealth. Since joining the organization in 2000, Humphries has expanded HopeHealth from a modest six employees to a robust staff of over 800. Under his stewardship, HopeHealth has emerged as one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Centers in South Carolina, providing indispensable healthcare services across multiple counties.

Humphries holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in social work from the University of South Carolina, reflecting his commitment to education and service, which is evident in his leadership role in the health sector.

FMU’s President, Fred Carter, who has led the university since 1999, will preside over the ceremonies. Under his guidance, FMU has experienced significant growth and has implemented various academic initiatives that enrich its educational offerings. Carter has an extensive history in public service, having held senior roles in leadership with two South Carolina governors and multiple universities.

The upcoming commencement ceremonies will not only celebrate the achievements of the honorary degree recipients but also the graduating class of FMU. The university is poised to recognize students from across South Carolina and several international locales. Among the graduates, many have achieved notable academic distinctions, including those earning Latin honors, emphasizing their dedication and hard work throughout their studies.

Additionally, the ceremonies will acknowledge the contributions of retiring faculty members, who have played crucial roles in shaping the educational landscape at FMU. In their remarks, both McMaster and Humphries are expected to address themes of educational accomplishment and community engagement, inspiring graduates as they embark on their next chapters.

The commencement events will be held on FMU’s campus in Florence, providing a fitting backdrop to honor the accomplishments of its graduates and the esteemed guests. The recognition of Governor McMaster and Carl Humphries underscores FMU’s commitment to celebrating leadership and service within the state and advancing the mission of education.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: FMU Honorary Degrees
• Wikipedia: Commencement
• WPDE: FMU Graduates
• Google Search: Francis Marion University
• WMBF News: Degrees Awarded
• Google Scholar: Francis Marion University
• WPDE: FMU Graduation Ceremonies
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Graduation
• Post and Courier: FMU Commencement Doctorates
• Google News: Francis Marion University Graduation