University Chaplains
The University Chaplains are responsible for coordinating religious and spiritual life at Furman. In this work the University Chaplains do not represent any one religious tradition, but rather oversee religious and spiritual life on campus including religious-specific programs, interreligious understanding, dialogue and pastoral care; coordinates educational programs on moral, ethical, religious and spiritual issues and leads ecumenical community worship opportunities throughout the year. The University Chaplains also oversee all of the religious groups on campus and acts as a liaison to the Greenville area.
Dr. Vaughn CroweTipton is Associate Vice President for Spiritual Life, University Chaplain, and Associate Professor of Religion. Formerly the senior pastor at Auburn First Baptist Church in Auburn, Alabama, Dr. CroweTipton also taught in the religion department at Auburn University, as well as Mercer University, Brewton-Parker College and Macon College. He has served as senior pastor at Northwest Baptist Church in Ardmore, OK, senior chaplain at Methodist Children's Home in Macon, GA, and pastor of Loveview Baptist Church in Hillsboro, TX. He has published numerous articles, edited several books, and serves as a conference speaker.
A graduate of Mississippi College (B.A.), he holds the M.Div. degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from Baylor University. Dr. CroweTipton has also done postdoctoral study at Oxford University.
Email:
vaughn.crowetipton@furman.edu
Phone: 864.294.2133
Ms. Maria Swearingen is Assistant University Chaplain. She is a native of Texas and a graduate of Baylor University (B.A.) and Duke University (M.Div). Fluent in Spanish, Swearingen has served in Huancayo, Peru, Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, and Nava, Mexico as well as congregations in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. She was a Lectionary Homiletics "Good Preacher Seminarian" finalist and was awarded the Jameson Jones Preaching Award upon completion of her graduate degree.
For two years, Swearingen served as the Chaplaincy Intern, while transitioning into her current role the second year, taking on responsibilities with university worship, the Exploration of Vocation and Ministry program, religious groups and campus ministries, and pastoral care concerns.
Email:
maria.swearingen@furman.edu
Phone: 864.294.2133
Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Susan Bennett joined the chaplaincy staff in 1997. As chapel receptionist she is responsible for scheduling meeting spaces, coordinating the chapel calendar, and supervising student staff. Mrs. Bennett's genuine enthusiasm and positive spirit have made her a popular and respected colleague at Furman.
Email:
susan.bennett@furman.edu
Phone: 864.294.2133
Chapel Sexton
Mr. Carroll Huff has been a member of the Furman community since January 1988. As chapel sexton, he is responsible for the chapel's daily maintenance. His gracious spirit underscores the hospitality of this special place. A lifelong resident of Travelers Rest, Mr. Huff served on the City Council for 28 years.