Deb Conklin’s ONE Clemson Cornerstone Gift Propels Clemson University Fiercely Forward
Deb Conklin’s ONE Clemson Cornerstone Gift Propels Clemson University Fiercely Forward
Deb Conklin ’92 has made a pivotal ONE Clemson Cornerstone gift to Clemson University, advancing key priorities across athletics, alumni engagement and student success.
From the moment Conklin stepped onto campus, she felt Clemson was home. While she has always carried deep pride in her alma mater, she did not immediately step into a visible alumni leadership role. After graduating in 1992 with a degree in industrial engineering, she found herself returning to campus often — drawn back by the spirit, traditions and people that make Clemson so distinctive — but not yet fully engaged.
That began to change during a tailgate conversation with friends. Reflecting on her Clemson experience, she asked a simple but powerful question: How can I get more involved, and how can I help encourage more students to choose Clemson?
That moment sparked a renewed commitment. Conklin began engaging more intentionally with the Clemson Alumni Association, discovering how meaningful it was to strengthen her connection to the University and to better understand the impact she could make for future generations of Tigers.
Her Clemson story has been shaped not only by tradition and pride but by opportunity. Conklin credits scholarships with making it possible for her to attend Clemson, which changed the trajectory of her life.
That experience fuels her passion for philanthropy and her belief in Clemson’s role in unlocking human potential through access, education and community.
“Clemson shaped who I am — not just professionally, but personally,” Conklin said. “This University gave me opportunities, lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging that I carry with me every day. My hope is that this gift helps ensure future Tigers have the same support, access and pride that made such a difference in my life.”
Today, Conklin continues to give back in a multitude of ways which includes serving as the current chair of the Clemson Alumni Association board of directors and serving on the IPTAY board of directors.
“Deb has been a part of the Clemson Family for many years, and in that time she has been a hopeful Clemson Tiger, a student, an engaged Alumna including serving on multiple boards and holding significant leadership roles on those boards, a donor, and now, she is a ONE Clemson Cornerstone Partner, which is a testament to her love for Clemson University and for our incredible students. She embodies the heart of what it means to be a Clemson Tiger, leading a life full of service, gratitude and a passion to increase access and support opportunities for future generations of Tigers. I am grateful for Deb’s significant commitment and investment in our great University and for leading the way Fiercely Forward,” said Clemson University Interim President Bob Jones.
Investing in Women’s Athletics
Conklin’s gift supports IPTAY and Clemson Athletics with development and enhancement of dedicated women’s lacrosse facilities. Her investment reflects a belief in expanding opportunity, advancing equity in athletics and ensuring that women student-athletes have access to premier facilities that match their talent and dedication.
For Conklin, athletics are an essential part of the Clemson experience — building confidence, teamwork and leadership skills that extend far beyond the field. A lifelong sports enthusiast and committed supporter of Clemson Athletics, she views women’s lacrosse as a program poised for continued growth and national prominence.
This commitment will continue providing a premier home venue for women’s lacrosse student-athletes, elevate the game-day experience and strengthen recruiting efforts as the program continues to compete at the highest level.
“Deb’s investment in women’s lacrosse is more than support for a sport,” said Davis Babb, CEO of IPTAY. “This gift accelerates our ability to provide elite competitive experiences and state-of-the-art facilities that match the drive and talent of our student-athletes. We are incredibly grateful for her leadership and belief in the future of IPTAY and Clemson Athletics.”
In recognition of her generosity and leadership, the stadium at the Clemson Lacrosse Complex will be named Conklin Field — a lasting tribute to her commitment to empowering student-athletes and strengthening Clemson’s tradition of excellence.
Strengthening the Clemson Ring Tradition
In addition, her gift establishes the Deb Conklin Endowment with the Clemson Alumni Association, providing sustained support for one of the University’s most cherished traditions — the Clemson Ring Ceremony.
For Conklin, the ring is far more than a symbol of graduation. It represents perseverance, shared identity and lifelong connection to the Clemson Family.
Her commitment to the tradition began with a gift naming the Conklin Ring Gallery within the Nieri Family Alumni and Visitors Center. At the heart of the space is a one-of-a-kind interactive display where alumni can scan their Clemson Ring and add their signature to a growing digital archive.
“The Clemson Family is so unique — not like anything else in the world,” she said. “The ring represents that community. It starts conversations with people everywhere, and it’s a reminder that Clemson is about ‘we,’ not ‘me.’”
Through this endowment, Conklin is not only preserving a tradition — she is reinforcing a culture of belonging and shared purpose that defines the Clemson experience across generations.
“Deb’s generosity is an extraordinary investment in the Clemson Family,” said Wil Brasington, CEO of the Clemson Alumni Association. “Her endowment honors and strengthens the Clemson Ring tradition — a powerful symbol of pride. Because of her leadership, more students will be able to experience this defining milestone and carry that bond with them wherever they go as members of the Clemson Family.”
Expanding Scholarship Access
Conkin’s gift also funds James Conklin Scholarship Endowment, strengthening financial support for Clemson students and helping ensure that deserving Tigers can pursue their academic goals with reduced financial burden.
The scholarship, named in honor of her father, reflects the Conklin family’s enduring commitment to access, opportunity and student success — particularly for students whose parents are living with disabilities.
Her father, James Conklin, was injured in a diving accident in 1973 and has required the use of a wheelchair ever since. That life-changing event profoundly shaped Conklin’s perspective on resilience, strength and family.
His experience inspired her motivation to establish this scholarship at Clemson University, creating meaningful support for students who may face additional challenges as children of disabled parents.
Through this endowment, Conklin hopes to ease the path for students who, like she once did, are determined to pursue a Clemson education but may need financial assistance to make that dream possible.
“Scholarships open doors, alumni programming sustains lifelong connections and programs like women’s lacrosse build teamwork and resilience. Deb’s investment in each of these is enhancing our student experience in ways that are both immediate and enduring. We are deeply grateful for Deb’s fierce commitment and the lasting impact she continues to have on our students,” said Brian O’Rourke, Senior Vice President for Advancement
A Cornerstone Commitment to Clemson’s Future
Clemson’s Cornerstone Program recognizes philanthropic commitments of $2.5 million or more that advance the University’s strategic priorities, elevate the student and alumni experience and strengthen Clemson’s position as a leading public institution.
Conklin’s ONE Clemson Cornerstone gift exemplifies the powerful role alumni and supporters play in shaping Clemson’s future — ensuring that Clemson continues to prepare students for lives of purpose, drive innovation and positively impact communities across the nation.
“This incredible ONE Clemson Cornerstone gift propels our campaign Fiercely Forward in meaningful ways. We are incredibly grateful for Deb’s steadfast belief in our mission and her ongoing commitment to enhancing our University in both academics and athletics.” said Cheri Phyfer, Clemson University Trustee and Fiercely Forward Campaign Chair.