The Mickel and Daniel families have played a significant role in shaping Greenville since their partnership began in 1948. Today, their descendants are continuing that legacy through generous donations to various causes.
Minor Mickel Shaw, a trustee of The Daniel-Mickel Foundation, explained that one of their key focuses has always been education. The Daniel Foundation was established in the same year Shaw’s father, Buck Mickel, joined the firm of Charles Daniel. In 1993, the charity was renamed The Daniel-Mickel Foundation and has since donated over $57 million to nonprofits in Greenville, supporting areas like the arts, conservation, and health care.
Among the organizations benefiting from their support are Greenville Technical College and its foundation. Recently, they were honored for their contributions, having given more than $330,000 since 2001, which has greatly impacted Greenville Tech’s growth in various programs.
Shaw spoke highly of Greenville Tech, stating their donations are effective because the school can measure its results. An example of this is the African American Male Scholars Initiative, founded in 2019, which has retained 83% of its participants.
The Daniel-Mickel Foundation aims to foster workforce development and create opportunities for growth within the Greenville community. Shaw emphasized the importance of understanding the community’s needs as they review numerous grant applications each year.
Trustee Charlie Mickel echoed Shaw’s sentiments, highlighting how supporting Greenville Tech aligns with the goal of boosting economic development in the area. He remarked that when families succeed and industries flourish, everyone benefits.
Shaw also praised the mutual commitment to sharing success stories between the foundation and the college, allowing donors to see the impact of their contributions firsthand.
Carter Shaw Lowrance, another trustee, expressed gratitude for the recognition they will receive at the upcoming Champions for Student Success event, emphasizing Greenville Tech’s integral role in the community and the privilege of being a part of its success.
The Daniel-Mickel Foundation has made various contributions to Greenville Tech, including establishing scholarships, supporting continuing education programs, and funding initiatives designed to help students in need.
In addition to their work with Greenville Tech, the foundation has supported many other organizations, such as the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, Harvest Hope Food Bank, and more, showcasing their deep commitment to the community’s welfare.
