The Gamecocks mourn the passing of Dodie Anderson
The University of South Carolina Athletics family mourns the passing of faithful supporter and donor Dolores “Dodie” Anderson. Anderson died this week at the age of 92.
Among her philanthropic endeavors, Anderson made many donations to the South Carolina Athletics Department and provided funding for what was named the Dodie Anderson Academic Enrichment Center, which opened in 2010 and is used by all student-athletes. Affectionately known as “The Dodie,” the 40,500 square foot facility houses many academic assistance resources for student-athletes as well as a dining hall.
“She was certainly a legend in the Gamecock family,” Athletics Director Ray Tanner said. “She meant so much to our coaches and our student-athletes. She did so much for the state of South Carolina.
“We’re going to miss her dearly. The Dodie Anderson Academic Enrichment Center is a direct result of her. It has been a tremendous asset four our student-athletes. She will be missed dearly by us all. She has given us far more than we could ever give back. Her memory will live, and we will always smile and think about Dodie Anderson as we enter the Dodie Anderson Academic Center.”
Anderson also helped fund the Spurrier Indoor Football Practice Facility, men’s and women’s basketball locker rooms and weight rooms, and the renovation of the Frank McGuire Arena at Colonial Life Arena, among other initiatives.
A loyal fan of the Gamecocks for decades, Anderson also supported several other academic institutions in the state as well as other philanthropic causes. She received the Order of the Palmetto in 2019, one of the highest honors that can be received by South Carolinians, for her extraordinary lifetime service and achievements from Governor Henry McMaster.
Many of the South Carolina coaches posted their condolences on Twitter.
“We are saddened to hear about the loss of Ms. Dodie Anderson. Dodie was always a great supporter of our program & has impacted so many Gamecocks in her lifetime! She will continue to be an inspiration for us all. Rest In Peace!” – Shelley & Jamie Smith, Women’s Soccer.
“We lost a Great Gamecock in Ms. Dodie Anderson. She did so much for all of us here at South Carolina. You will be missed.” – Will Muschamp, Football.
“Ms. Dodie touched all the athletes @GamecocksOnline with her generosity. I am appreciative of her support @GamecockSoftbll and so glad I got to know her sweet heart and personality. #impact.” – Beverly Smith, Softball.
“Talk about a life of giving and being a servant for so many…..thank you to the Anderson family for sharing her with all of us. Our last meeting with her was in March before the SEC Tourney in Greenville…..of her treating us to a championship dinner. We love Ms Dodie!” – Dawn Staley, Women’s Basketball.
Originally from Forest Park, Illinois, she is survived by five daughters, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
