Student Programs
DFTD strives to ensure a learning environment at Davidson College that is ideologically balanced and promotes lively debate. Students at Davidson College are the cornerstone of our mission and their voices are crucial to our work.
How Can DFTD Help You?
Applications For the Robert Murray Scholarship for Excellence in Free Expression open annually in March.
Robert Murray was a founding member of Davidsonians for Freedom of Thought and Discourse (DFTD) and a central figure in shaping its mission. His belief in free expression, viewpoint diversity, and open dialogue was instrumental to the organization’s founding and early success. In recognition of his lasting impact, DFTD established the Robert Murray Scholarship for Excellence in Free Expression to support students who embody the values he championed; intellectual courage, respectful dialogue, and a commitment to expanding the range of ideas at Davidson College.
Robert Murray graduated from Davidson College in 1978 with a degree in political science. During his time at Davidson, he was an active member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and developed a lifelong commitment to principled dialogue and open inquiry. He later pursued graduate studies at the University of Virginia’s Woodrow Wilson School of Foreign Affairs.
Professionally, Robert served as president of Health At Home, Inc. and owner of The Bridge Agency, Inc., both based in Charlotte, North Carolina. His entrepreneurial leadership in the healthcare and insurance sectors reflected his dedication to service, integrity, and innovation.
Need to talk about a freedom of expression concern or exemplary action on campus? We are here to listen and advocate on your behalf.
DFTD is proud to support a variety of student activities at Davidson College. If you are a campus organization leader and wish to have DFTD sponsor an upcoming event please fill out the application.