Message from the Executive Director

The Office of USC Foundations represents five foundations, the USC Educational Foundation, the USC Development Foundation, the USC Business Partnership Foundation, the Carolina Alumni Association, and the USC Research Foundation. These five entities are unique in their missions, functions, and governing boards, yet they share the common goal of making the University better for those it serves today and those it will serve in the years to come.

The success of USC Foundations can be attributed directly to the many outstanding board members who share their expertise, talents, wisdom, time, and resources with the foundations and the University of South Carolina. They truly make a difference for the entire University. Equally important is the synergy created by the foundations working together with the Board of Trustees, the President and other University administrators.

Over the years, the generosity of the private sector, the support of our many successful alumni and friends, and the vitality of our research efforts have made possible some of the most prestigious programs at the University. Through its foundations, the University receives numerous gifts that have a significant impact on students, faculty, academic programs, and the community.
Working with the outstanding boards, the excellent foundation staff, and the University administrators with whom we interact is both a privilege and a pleasure.

As my term as Executive Director of USC Foundations comes to a close, I want to express my sincere appreciation to our entire staff for their wonderful support and for making our entire operation function smoothly and efficiently. I also want to welcome Russ Meekins as my successor. Russ has been the CFO of the Foundations for a number of years and he will be an excellent Executive Director. Russ assumes his new duties January 1, 2013. I would also express my heartfelt thanks to all of our Board members and other supporters of the Foundations. Remember that there are “No Limits” to what we can do for the Foundations and USC.


Jerome D. Odom Ph.D., Executive Director of University Foundations