Clemson University began under the shade of a large oak tree on the grounds of Fort Hill. The original seven trustees met there for the first time to implement our founder’s vision of creating a high seminary of learning to benefit the people of South Carolina. Since 2009, the Fort Hill Legacy Society has honored select donors who have left $1 million or more to ensure that Clemson continues its goal to be a top public university. Inductees are memorialized through bronze leaf replicas representing the oaks surrounding Fort Hill.
On November 10, 2023, Clemson inducted the newest members into the Fort Hill Legacy Society. During the ceremony, leaves for Buddy Wallace and Garrett Mobley Jr. ’62 and his wife, Linda, were placed under the Second Century Oak, which stands on the historic site of that first board meeting.
Buddy Wallace spent his life in Greenville, South Carolina. Wallace was a well-known and respected entrepreneur who quietly met the needs of others. He was a champion for education and honored his mother by establishing the Mary Woodside Wallace Scholarship Endowment for nursing students. His legacy in supporting talented and dedicated nurses continues to enhance the quality of care for people in South Carolina and beyond.
Garrett Mobley Jr. ’62 and his wife, Linda, were lifelong philanthropists and advocates for those in need. After retiring as a mechanical engineer, Garrett dedicated his life to supporting local charities. The Mobleys honored Garrett’s grandparents through the creation of the Andrew and Louzetta P. Rowell and Jesse and Florence F. Mobley Unrestricted Endowment for Excellence. The Mobleys’ investment reflects the love and admiration they had for each other and their ongoing commitment to the Clemson Family.
