Darla Moore & FMU

The relationship between Lake City native and philanthropist Darla Moore and Francis Marion University has blossomed in recent years, bringing forth fruit that has created opportunities for the region and the state.

Moore has long put her philanthropic efforts toward the place where she grew up, and where she still calls home, but the contribution to Francis Marion points towards a longevity that cannot be overstated.

In August 2021, FMU and The Darla Moore Foundation announced the creation of The Darla Moore Scholarship, a $5 million gift — $1 million a year for five years — made possible by the generosity of The Darla Moore Foundation. This scholarship will cover tuition and room and board for recipients each semester.

Fall 2022 marked the first semester where Darla Moore Scholars set foot on FMU’s campus. The impact has been nothing short of life changing.

“These scholarships are supporting students who possibly could not attend college otherwise,” said Dr. Fred Carter, President of Francis Marion University. “They have a deep impact among students who will be the first in their family to attend college, which represents a significant portion of our student body. What Darla has done is give these young men and women an opportunity to become authors of their own futures through the complete university experience. This impact cannot be overstated, and I’m deeply appreciative to Darla for her generosity and friendship.”

Since its inception in 2010, The Darla Moore Foundation has had a significant impact on not only its founder’s hometown of Lake City, but the entire state of South Carolina.