Reinhardt University is a place where memories are made for students and those who enjoy all the University brings to the community. For longtime Falany Performing Arts Center (FPAC) patrons, William (Bill) and Carole Fanning, these memories were built over time as they supported the FPAC and attended nearly every performance in the beautiful Flint Hall.
This week, Carole attended the presentation of a bench to honor her late husband which was placed outside the FPAC – they were married over 50 years. In addition to the bench, a dressing room will be dedicated to his memory. Her previous generosity includes several chairs purchased for Flint Hall.
In early 2021, Reinhardt launched a Campus Bench Campaign to add benches throughout the University’s beautiful campus. The campaign provides opportunities for family and friends, with a donation of $5,000 or more, to place a bench in memory and/or honor of someone special, forever celebrating them.
Donors can select a special location to place a bench on campus with the Office of Advancement, creating a meaningful place for visitors to relax, reflect, and reminisce while enjoying the incredible views that Reinhardt offers.
“Bill had a great sense of humor and when he smiled it lit up the room,” remembers Jessica Akers, director of development. “He and Carole would always sit in the last row on the aisle so he could enjoy the music. Carole now brings friends to sit in their seats and enjoy the shows.”
Bill not only enjoyed the musical and theatrical performances at FPAC, but he was also a horn player. His creative interests stretched beyond the theater to include model trains. As an avid model train collector, he created a room in the lower level of their home dedicated to creating a model train world.
He made time to enjoy his love of golf and this included a time when he caddied for the great golfer, Arnold Palmer. Carole still shares this exciting story, today.
Carole continues to volunteer her time focusing on issues that were important to them both and in his memory. This includes time working with the Cherokee Homeless Veterans, veterans being near and dear to their hearts.
“Carole is one of the most amazing people,” shares Akers. “She knits caps for NICU babies during concerts. She is a special person – never stops thinking of others.”
Through the donation of the bench, in front of their special place, the Falany Performing Arts Center, all will be reminded of the love between Bill and Carole – and their love of their community.
If you are interested in learning more about the Campus Bench Campaign, please contact our Office of Advancement at (770) 720-5513 or by email to advancement@reinhardt.edu.
To learn about other ways to give, please visit www.reinhardt.edu/give/give-now/
