Last week, members of the Oglethorpe University community gathered for the Gray Stone Society induction ceremony, a special tradition that honors donors whose support has shaped the institution and its students. The ceremony was a celebration recognizing individuals and corporations whose commitment to Oglethorpe has made a lasting impact.

The Gray Stone Society represents the highest level of giving at Oglethorpe, honoring a select group of supporters whose philanthropy has reached an extraordinary milestone. These individuals and corporations are recognized for their lifetime contributions and the profound influence their support has had on the university and its community.

As each honoree spoke, a shared sense of gratitude filled the room. Donors reflected on their connection to the university, the people who inspired their giving, and their hopes for future generations of students. Their remarks underscored not only the importance of philanthropy, but also the deep relationships and shared values that bind the Oglethorpe community together.

“The Gray Stone Society induction is a powerful reminder that our story is written not only by its students and faculty, but by the generous individuals and families who believe so deeply in our mission,” said Sarah Emerson, vice president of advancement. “Their commitment strengthens everything we do, from the student experience today to the future of Oglethorpe University.”

The donors inducted into the Gray Stone Society included:

• Mrs. Catherine B. Agel* and Mr. John Frederick “Fred” Agel, Sr. ’52 (H)’13*
• Mr. H. Edgar Bodiford, Jr. ’49*
• Chick-fil-A, Inc. and The Cathy Family
• The Coca-Cola Foundation
• Mr. Q. William Hammack, Jr. ’73 and Mrs. Diane Hammack
• Mr. Harald Hansen (H)’08* and Mrs. Betsy G. Hansen*
• Dr. Isaac Melamed and Dr. Yolanta Melamed*
• Mr. Donald J. Rubin ’56 (H)’13 and Mrs. Shelley Frost Rubin
• Mrs. Dean DuBose Smith ’70
• Mr. Timothy P. Tassopoulos ’81 and Mrs. Maria C. Tassopoulos
• Mr. Paul F. Thiele* and Mrs. Bernice H. Thiele*
  *deceased

Their names on the Gray Stone wall in Hearst Hall stand as a tribute to their commitment and as an inspiration for others to aspire to this esteemed recognition.

Following the ceremony, a larger group of donors and guests came together for the Generosity and Gratitude Dinner, extending the evening’s spirit of connection. The dinner provided an opportunity for continued conversation and shared stories, reinforcing the university’s appreciation for those who invest so thoughtfully in its mission.

Together, the Gray Stone Ceremony and the Generosity and Gratitude Dinner served as a powerful reminder that Oglethorpe’s strength lies not only in its academic programs and campus traditions, but also in the generosity of those who believe in its future and choose to help make it possible.