The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life announced today the 2024 class for its “Pillars of the Community.” Pillar awards are presented to individuals who have made a substantial impact in the more than 50 years of national affiliation of fraternities and sororities at Clemson.
This year’s class will be recognized during the second annual “Pillars of the Community” gala, scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 23 at the Madren Conference Center.
Winston Fowler ‘62 is credited with founding the first social fraternity at Clemson, Sigma Alpha Zeta (now Pi Kappa Alpha) — serving as the organization’s first president. Additionally, Fowler was a member of Tiger Brotherhood, TAPS staff, Central Dance Association, student government and head cheerleader. One nominator describes Fowler as the “father of Fraternity and Sorority Life at Clemson.”
Donald McKale is a retired Clemson history professor who served as chapter advisor to Delta Tau Delta on multiple occasions. In addition to serving as DTD’s first advisor in the mid-1990s, he served the chapter in the same capacity again from 2012-19. He was a faculty member in the Department of History and Geography, receiving numerous accolades — including the Class of 1939 Award for Excellence (2006). One nominator says of McKale, “From Rush to pledging to active membership, he contributed significantly to the chapter’s growth and success.”
Curtis White ‘80 is a retired Clemson professor who has served as advisor for Omega Psi Phi since 1992. He served in various roles as a faculty member in the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences from 1989-2010. He also served as a member of the United States Army’s Inactive Ready Reserve as a lieutenant colonel. According to one nominator, “Dr. White has demonstrated over decades an unwavering track record of excellence, dedication and commitment in support of Fraternity and Sorority Life.”
