B – reflective.
January 21, 2021
Greetings, fellow Tigers!
This week has provided us with the opportunity to reflect individually and collectively as we honor an American hero – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Throughout the week, our University has marked the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the theme “Our Legacy Matters” during our annual MLK Celebration.
Each year, I remember this quote: “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” It resonates with me as we reflect on his legacy and how we can follow his example in our mission to impact future generations of students.
Decisions and direction in unprecedented times
Clemson University Alumni Association continues to host Facebook Live Q&A sessions with University leaders and experts. Please join Bubba Britton today at noon as he welcomes Provost Jones to discuss his journey to Clemson and his journey BACK to Clemson. The session will also include discussions about decisions in response to COVID-19 and COVID-19 testing.
Swimming toward LIFE
It only takes a moment to change a life. Jessica Weitz is a testament to this. A lifelong competitive swimmer, Jessica’s experience working with special needs children in the pool during her college experience has led her to give to the ClemsonLIFE program. Her parents, Jonathan Weitz ‘90 and Lisa Weitz ‘90, established the Jessica Taylor Weitz Endowment for ClemsonLIFE in honor of Jessica’s passions.
The ClemsonLIFE program offers a collegiate experience that prepares young people with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment and independent living through a combination of academic coursework and career exploration. With around 40 students in the program, ClemsonLIFE acts as a catalyst for personal growth, teaching lessons that many of us take for granted. A day’s lesson may be proper texting etiquette, grocery shopping or hosting a party. These practical skills allow these students to live independent, joyful lives.
Jessica began working with special needs children as a student at Tulane University. A former collegiate swimmer for the university, she took time out of her intense training schedule to help students with special needs swim. It was in these precious moments with Joel that Jessica found her passion to help those with intellectual disabilities.
With Jessica’s charitable spirit and her parents’ philanthropy, LIFE students will continue in this outstanding program that impacts the hearts of the Clemson campus. ClemsonLIFE is an integral part of the Clemson spirit, and Jessica’s endowment will help keep it as such. You can read more about Jessica and the Jessica Taylor Weitz Endowment for ClemsonLIFE here.
B – reflective.
As a University, we continue to reflect on our history and how we can recognize and honor our legacy while also building upon Clemson’s commitment to inclusion, equity and full transparency. Clemson University strives to be a welcoming place for all, and we join our Clemson Family in its promise to do the work necessary to build on our progress as an inclusive university. As we continue to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this week, I encourage you to think about how we can each contribute our time, talent and treasures to this important work.
Thank you for your commitment – today, tomorrow and forever!
Go Tigers!
Brian O’Rourke