George L. Carter Award

Hillsville, Va., native George L. Carter built the Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Railroad, which connected the coal mining and lumber regions of Appalachia to the east coast. Carter created thousands of jobs in the region and was heralded by the Kingsport Times as "the greatest industrial developer and leader the southern Appalachian coal section ever produced."

As an industrialist and philanthropist, Carter was extremely influential in the region at the turn of the century. Carter helped create what is now East Tennessee State University by donating money, land for the campus, enlisting support, and organizing local government agreements in the campaign to place the new "normal school" in Johnson City.

The George L. Carter Award is bestowed upon graduates or friends who have made this university a more dynamic and viable force in the world of higher education. Recognition is given only when an individual(s) has exhibited the commitment and loyalty to ETSU fitting the example of George L. Carter, and when such action is warranted by the ETSU Alumni Association board of directors.

This page honors the select number of individuals who have, through their loyalty and commitment, best exemplify the spirit and vision of George L. Carter. As alumni, we seek to recognize these benefactors who have demonstrated unselfish support and belief in East Tennessee State University.

Mr. Wayne G. Basler, 1998

Dr. Ronald E. Beller, 1990

Mr. C.M. "Bill" Gatton, 2008

Mr. Allen Harris, Jr.*, 1989

Dr. Carroll H. Long*, 1999

Dr. Richard A. Manahan, 2002

Mr. James J. & Mrs. Sandra G. Powell, 1996

Hon. James H. Quillen*, 1993

Dr. John Shelton Reed, 1999

Dr. Paul E. Stanton, Jr., 2002

*Deceased Recipients