Terri Towle Named 2025 Recipient of the Fred R. Sheheen Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership

Francis Marion University’s Fred R. Sheheen Nonprofit Leadership Institute (FMU NPLI) and Together SC proudly announce Terri Towle as the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Fred R. Sheheen Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership. This award honors a nonprofit professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact within the sector. 

Towle, Director of Resource Development at the Indian Waters Council, Boy Scouts of America, has dedicated over 25 years to nonprofit management, fundraising, and advocacy for youth development programs across South Carolina and beyond. Her leadership has been instrumental in launching the Council’s $20 million Endowment Campaign, securing over $1.5 million in gifts in the past year alone, and expanding AmeriCorps programs to support the organization's mission. 

“Terri Towle embodies the spirit of this award through her commitment to financial sustainability, governance, and community engagement,” said Chuck MacNeil of Francis Marion University. “Her ability to cultivate relationships with donors, stakeholders, and policymakers has strengthened nonprofit capacity across the state.” 

The Fred R. Sheheen Award, named in honor of the late Fred R. Sheheen, founder of the FMU Non-Profit Leadership Institute, recognizes graduates of the NPLI program or Together SC members who have demonstrated excellence in nonprofit management and resource development. 

As the 2025 Award Recipient, Towle will receive: 

• A $500 cash award from Francis Marion University 

• A distinguished award plaque 

• Complimentary registration to the FMU NPLI Alumni Gathering in Spring 2025 

• Complimentary registration to the 2025 SC Nonprofit Summit, hosted by Together SC 

• Statewide recognition through FMU and Together SC communications 

• Recognition on Together SC and FMU websites 

About the Fred R. Sheheen Non-Profit Leadership Institute: 

The FMU NPLI, established to support and train nonprofit leaders in South Carolina, continues to honor the legacy of Fred Sheheen by fostering strong, effective leadership within the nonprofit sector. 

About Together SC: 

Together SC is South Carolina’s premier network of nonprofit and philanthropic organizations, dedicated to strengthening and elevating the sector through education, advocacy, and collaboration.