Furman University Shines the Senior Spotlight on Class of 2024

Greenville, South Carolina – In a heartwarming tribute to the graduating Class of 2024, Furman University is casting a spotlight on six remarkable seniors who represent the diverse talents and incredible potential within the student body.

Conor Bready ’24

Hometown: Wallkill, New York

Majors: Chemistry and Applied Mathematics

Favorite memory:

Conor Bready fondly recalls the camaraderie and fun of competing in the Iron Chemist competition, a series of events that brought together chemistry researchers, professors, and students for some friendly competition.

Biggest influence:

Bready credits Dr. George Shields in chemistry and Dr. Christian Millichap in mathematics for their significant impact on his academic journey at Furman.

After graduation:

Bready is set to embark on a Ph.D. program in theoretical chemistry at the University of California Berkeley.

Yoana Reyes-Zapata ’24

Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina

Major: Communication Studies

Favorite memory:

Reyes-Zapata cherishes the experience of planning and hosting Hispanic Heritage Month events on campus, along with engaging in various Cultural Heritage events organized by the Student Diversity Council.

Biggest influence:

The Communication Studies department, including professors and staff, played a pivotal role in inspiring Reyes-Zapata’s passion for media studies.

After graduation:

Reyes-Zapata has her eyes set on interning with a non-profit Latino organization in Washington D.C., followed by a potential career move to the nation’s capital.

Xavier Johnson ’24

Hometown: Greer, South Carolina

Major: Music

Favorite memory:

Johnson highlights his rewarding experiences as a summer orientation leader, welcoming new students and families to campus and forging lasting friendships.

Biggest influence:

Dr. Matt Olson, professor of saxophone and jazz studies, has been a mentor and guide for Johnson, imparting valuable lessons both in music and life.

After graduation:

Johnson plans to immerse himself in a MayX program focusing on American Indian culture before exploring further research opportunities.

Abby Stapleton ’24

Hometown: Harrisonburg, Virginia

Major: Chemistry

Favorite memory:

Stapleton’s cherished memories revolve around her time as a summer research fellow in the chemistry department, where she found a passion for biochemistry and formed lasting friendships.

Biggest influence:

Dr. Mary Elizabeth Anderson’s mentorship and passion for chemistry fueled Stapleton’s academic journey and inspired her to pursue a career as a physician scientist.

After graduation:

Stapleton is set to embark on an MD/Ph.D. dual degree program at The University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson.

Miles Baker ’24

Hometown: Greenville, South Carolina

Major: Sustainability Science

Favorite memory:

Baker fondly recalls the joy of being on the homecoming court, celebrating with friends, family, and fraternity brothers at a memorable homecoming football game.

Biggest influence:

Drew Washington, a fellow Furman graduate, served as a mentor and role model for Baker, inspiring him to pursue opportunities and make the most of his college experience.

After graduation:

Baker is gearing up to pursue a master’s degree in public affairs at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Policy at the University of Texas at Austin.

Sophie Shaw ’24

Hometown: Granville, Ohio

Major: Health Sciences

Favorite Memory:

Studying abroad in Lisbon, Portugal, stands out as one of Shaw’s most treasured experiences, allowing her to combine her academic pursuits with a deep dive into global health and medicine.

Biggest influence:

Craig Clark, Furman’s associate athletics director for Sports Medicine and Performance, made a significant impact on Shaw’s college journey, providing support and mentorship.