FMU Receives Darla Moore Funding to Establish Forestry Scholarships

Francis Marion University is pleased to announce the creation of a scholarship program in support of its new Bachelor of Science in Forestry, made possible through funding from the Darla Moore Foundation.

This generous gift will provide both immediate and long-term scholarship support for students entering FMU’s Forestry program, which begins in Fall 2026. The Darla Moore Annual Forestry Scholarship will assist full-time students from South Carolina who demonstrate financial need. Additionally, this gift will establish the Darla Moore Endowed Forestry Scholarship, ensuring ongoing support for this critical program.

“Five years ago when we first discussed a forestry program, Darla Moore committed financial support. As every South Carolinian knows, her word is gold,” said FMU President Fred Carter. “This gift will provide generations of students with an exciting career choice, growing and sustaining our precious resources. We are all deeply appreciative to Darla for her generosity and her continued commitment to our daughters and sons.”

FMU’s new Forestry degree is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals dedicated to the responsible management, restoration, and preservation of forests. Graduates will be trained in forest management, conservation, and environmental stewardship.

The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, sustainable practice, and forest management. Students will complete pre-forestry coursework in their freshman year, followed by production and conservation management throughout their sophomore, junior, and senior years. Field experiences and a senior capstone project will further prepare graduates to sit for both the Society of American Foresters Certified Forester Exam and the South Carolina Forestry Examination.

The establishment of the Forestry program and scholarship funding will address workforce needs in this vital industry. Forests cover nearly 67% of the state’s total land area. They support 100,000 jobs and contribute more than $21 billion annually to the state’s economy.

To be eligible for the Darla Moore Forestry Scholarship, students must be South Carolina residents enrolled full-time in the Forestry program and demonstrate financial need based on FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The scholarships are renewable for students who maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA and 30 credit hours each academic year.

The Darla Moore Foundation was founded in 2010 by Lake City, SC, philanthropist, and financier Darla Moore, with the mission of enhancing the lives of the residents of South Carolina and the United Statess