Note: The following appears in the Stanford football gameday program.
The Bond Distinguished Athletes Award was created 11 years ago by Margaret Segars Bond (‘84) and her late husband, former Clemson golfer Steve Bond (‘80). The couple wanted to leave a legacy that would honor student-athlete alumni and recognize them for success measured off the field of athletic competition. The goal of the Bonds was to give attention to those who have gone on to do great things in life after Clemson.
Each year, the award is symbolized by a customized gold ring, an engraved plaque prominently displayed at Nieri Family Student-Athlete Enrichment Center and gameday recognition at Memorial Stadium. To qualify for the award, recipients must have lettered in a sport and be more than 10 years removed from graduation. The individuals selected have shown great character, strong citizenship and outstanding service to include support of community, family and Clemson.
“It is such a great honor to carry on Steve’s legacy and his love for Clemson through this award,” said Bond. “It’s hard to believe the award is in its 11th year. Steve would be proud of how our vision has continually honored such exceptional individuals and brought a spotlight to Clemson athletics and the university.”
This year’s winner, John N. “Nicky” McCarter Jr., is a shining example of a Tiger who has become an incredible difference-maker in the lives of others and at Clemson.
“It’s hard to find a better representative of their alma mater,” said Bond. “From his time as a student-athlete to his contributions to the South Carolina community, his love of family and friends and his unwavering commitment to Clemson, this made him the best choice for this award. I’m honored to be able to recognize Nicky for his service and leadership, which defines the Bond Distinguished Athletes Award.”
McCarter started at Clemson in 1973 as an administrative management major and a walk-on linebacker. Although his time on the football team was cut short due to injury, he remained involved with the football program and further developed relationships that would later be integral to his professional career.
In 1980, he graduated with his bachelor of science degree in administrative management and began his career at Defender Services, where he was recruited to join the company by a former teammate. Today, McCarter serves as president and CEO of Defender Services.
In addition to his professional career, McCarter is a pillar in the community. He is a member of the South Carolina Waterfowl Association and the Synovus Bank Advisory Board, serves on the Indian Waters Council Executive Board and is a past president of the state of South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame.
Furthering his commitment to the community, he is active in charitable organizations, most notably as a Mason and Shriner. McCarter, an Eagle Scout, is a recipient of the Order of the Arrow, a 2019 Clemson Distinguished Service Award honoree and member of the Thomas Green Clemson Society. In 2023, he received the highest honor in South Carolina, the Order of the Palmetto, and has been recognized with the Accelerate South Carolina Award.
McCarter has been a faithful servant to the community, serving on multiple boards and supporting the university and athletic department philanthropically. He was elected to the Clemson University Board of Trustees by the South Carolina General Assembly in 2008 and has been re-elected to a new term since his appointment, serving as vice chair in addition to various committee assignments. He has also served on the Clemson University’s Board of Visitors, the Alumni Board of Directors and the Clemson University Professional Development & Continuing Education Board.
He has been a dedicated member of the IPTAY Board of Directors, committed to supporting a new generation of Tiger student-athletes. In 2021, McCarter became an athletic cornerstone partner with a gift of $2.5 million to IPTAY and Clemson athletics. His gift officially named the IPTAY administrative building, The McCarter Family IPTAY Center, and his cornerstone commitment has significantly impacted the success of current Clemson student-athletes.
“It is so hard to believe that I am naming the 12th Bond Distinguished Athletes Award winner,” added Bond. “This award has opened the door for me to meet exceptional and generous people along with their families. Nicky certainly embodies the qualities Steve and I set out to honor. His servant’s heart to Clemson University, his family and friends and his community make him the best selection for the 2024 Bond Distinguished Athletes Award.”
