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.
After graduation:
Shaw is set to embark on a career with Gartner Inc. in their sales development program, leveraging her skills and knowledge in health sciences.
