Coker University has renamed its Center for Diversity, Interfaith, and Inclusion Education to the John Foster III Center for Belonging and Community, in honor of a man who dedicated his life to making Coker a place where everyone could feel at home.
“From the moment I started at Coker, I heard stories about the warmth, generosity, and humanity of Rev. Foster," said Dr. Natalie Harder, President of Coker University. "Coker is fortunate that John Foster put so much of himself into the connection and community of our students and renaming the Center is recognition of the impact John made on so many.”
Rev. John Foster III was more than a colleague to many at Coker. He was a mentor, a friend, a faithful leader, and a champion for students. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the community shaped the campus culture and inspired countless lives.
“Renaming the Center to the John Foster III Center for Belonging and Community honors the legacy of John Foster, whose commitment to making sure every person at Coker felt respected, safe, supported, and truly seen continues to inspire our work,” said Darlene Small, M.Ed., the Center’s director. “John wanted the best for everyone and touched the lives of so many. I’m grateful to have known him as a colleague and a friend.”
Foster’s impact reached beyond his job title. He led with love, listened without judgment, and believed in building something bigger than himself. Whether he was mentoring students, offering advice to colleagues, or hosting conversations in the Center, he created a sense of home for those around him.
“During my time as a student leader and later as an employee, I saw John Foster III’s dedication firsthand,” said Dr. Kendrick Reed, a 2015 Coker graduate. “He made sure everyone felt seen and valued. His legacy keeps pushing us to create an environment where everyone thrives.”
The new name emphasizes belonging and community, values that Foster embodied every day. It also intentionally retains the word "Center" to reflect a warm and welcoming space, not just a formal office.
“John never met a stranger,” said Dr. Pamela Gill Franklin, a member of Coker’s Board of Trustees. “He was a man of faith who walked the walk. He worked hard to create a community where students, faculty, and staff could feel connected and cared for.”
Faculty, staff, alumni, and students all carry memories of Foster’s influence. Professor Phyllis Fields shared that he was the kind of person who would remind her not to let others’ actions diminish her worth. His belief in the goodness of people and his refusal to tolerate ignorance made him a powerful voice for equity on campus.
The Belonging and Community (BAC) Team, chaired by Small, was entrusted with renaming the Center. After thoughtful conversation, the committee agreed the new name not only honors Foster’s legacy but also more clearly reflects the Center’s purpose.
The John Foster III Center for Belonging and Community stands as a living tribute to his legacy. As students walk through its doors, they’ll enter a space built on compassion, connection, and care, the same values John Foster gave to Coker every single day.
