When Dr. Anne Lamb Matthews first came to Coker, it was not her choice but her father’s. He admired the college’s reputation and believed it would offer his daughter the right foundation for success. Looking back, Dr. Matthews says it was one of the best decisions of her life.

At Coker, she earned a business degree that became the foundation for a lifelong career in education and service. One of her favorite professors, Dr. Davidson, opened her eyes to the beauty of history, art, and culture. “I have the four years of our syllabus that a good friend kept and gave to me a few years ago. It is a treasure,” she said.

His influence stayed with her long after graduation. Having traveled to 73 countries and all 50 states, Dr. Matthews often reflects on how those early lessons shaped her global perspective.

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Business with a minor in Civilization, she went on to complete a master’s degree at Appalachian State University and a Doctorate in Educational Administration at the University of South Carolina. Coker later recognized her accomplishments with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 1986, when she also delivered the Commencement Address, and with the Distinguished Achievement Award the following year. She later served on both the Board of Visitors and the Board of Trustees. In 2020, she received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award for her character, integrity, and service to others.

Her career as an educator and leader spans classrooms, campuses, and communities. She has worked as a teacher, professor, and administrator with the South Carolina Department of Education, always guided by her belief in the power of learning and service.

Her impact extends far beyond South Carolina. Through Rotary International, Dr. Matthews made history as the first woman Governor of Rotary District 7770 and the first woman Vice President and Director of Rotary International. Her humanitarian work has taken her around the world, digging wells in the Amazon, immunizing children in India, feeding the hungry, and helping raise millions to support education and health initiatives.

In August 2025, Governor Henry McMaster presented her with the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. “I know of no South Carolinian who has given so much of her heart to protect the world from polio and to share the spirit of the South across the globe,” he said.

Through all her achievements, Dr. Matthews continues to live by two guiding principles: that giving always returns greater rewards and that one should always contribute more than they take.

“I want only the best for Coker,” she said. “If my contributions in time or resources can help Coker thrive for decades to come, I will always consider that a worthy purpose.”