Florence, SC, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Francis Marion University (FMU) has started its 56th academic year, announcing significant funding of $2.89 million in state appropriations and $7.75 million in nonrecurring funds. A 3% salary increase for faculty and staff was approved, along with record scholarship support and two new International Study Centers. Tuition will remain frozen for the 2025-2026 school year. The university also appointed Johnathan Munn as the new dean of the School of Business and recognized several faculty achievements at the kickoff event.
Florence, SC – Francis Marion University (FMU) has officially commenced its 56th academic year, unveiling notable funding initiatives, scholarship opportunities, and the expansion of its International Study Centers (ISC). FMU President Fred Carter emphasized the accomplishments of the university’s faculty during the welcome breakfast, highlighting significant contributions to academia and the arts.
For the upcoming year, FMU has secured $2.89 million in new recurring state appropriations along with $7.75 million in nonrecurring funds. Notably, a portion of the nonrecurring funds, totaling $1 million, is designated for a 3% salary increase for faculty and staff, continuing a trend of salary increases for 25 consecutive years. This increase puts FMU faculty salaries at 50% higher than those of other state agency employees.
The nonrecurring funds are earmarked for various infrastructure improvements, including renovations to the science building and fine arts building, as well as constructing pedestrian crosswalks linking the campus to the Griffin Athletic Complex. Additionally, record scholarship support has been established to assist students in financing their education.
FMU has also announced the addition of two new ISC locations, expanding on the successful partnership with Ecuador. The new locations include the University of Prince Edward Island in Canada and Landau University in Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany, broadening international opportunities for students.
At the academic year kickoff, FMU introduced 12 new faculty members and recognized 15 faculty members for their years of service. In a show of appreciation for his devoted efforts, the city council of Florence honored Bishop Donald Jackson for his 31 years of service at FMU. As part of the recognition, a resolution was passed to name the Donald Jackson Atrium & Garden in the Stokes Administration Building in his honor.
For the eighth consecutive year, FMU’s Board of Trustees has voted to freeze tuition and fees for the 2025-2026 school year, a decision supported by appropriations from the General Assembly and contributions from donors. The proposed budget for this academic year includes $2.28 million in tuition mitigation funding, $310,000 allocated for nursing pay supplements, and nearly $9 million for facility renovations and added crosswalks.
In staffing news, Johnathan Munn has been appointed as the new dean of FMU’s School of Business. He has been part of the FMU faculty since 2008, previously serving as associate dean and currently holds the Henry Booker Sparrow Chair of Economics.
Summary of Key Developments
- Opening of the 56th academic year at FMU with funding and scholarship announcements.
- FMU received $2.89 million in recurring state appropriations and $7.75 million in nonrecurring funds.
- A 3% salary increase for faculty/staff was approved, marking 25 consecutive years of raises.
- Record scholarship support and two new ISC locations announced.
- Tuition and fees frozen for the 2025-2026 school year for the eighth year in a row.
- Johnathan Munn appointed dean of the School of Business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the $1 million allocation for faculty and staff?
The allocation is designated for a 3% salary increase for faculty and staff, reflecting FMU’s commitment to competitive salaries and employee retention.
What improvements will be funded by the nonrecurring funds?
The funds will support renovations to the science facility and fine arts building, plus new pedestrian crosswalks connecting the campus to the Griffin Athletic Complex.
What new opportunities have been introduced for international studies?
FMU announced two new International Study Centers at the University of Prince Edward Island and Landau University in Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany, expanding international study opportunities beyond Ecuador.
How has FMU recognized faculty achievements?
The university recognized faculty achievements by reporting 92 published academic works and numerous artistic performances during the past year.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New State Appropriations | $2.89 million (recurring) |
| Nonrecurring Funds Allocation | $7.75 million |
| Faculty Salary Increase | 3% (for 25 consecutive years) |
| Record Scholarship Support | Available for students |
| New International Study Programs | University of Prince Edward Island, Landau University |
| Tuition Freeze | Frozen for 2025-2026 school year |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: FMU Free Classes
- Wikipedia: Francis Marion University
- WPDE: FMU Arts International Festival
- Google Search: Francis Marion University
- WLTX: FMU Basketball
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University
- SCNOW: FMU College Sports
- Google News: Francis Marion University
- Post and Courier: FMU Tuition Freeze
- Google Scholar: Francis Marion University
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
