The ClemsonLIFE program continues to grow so much that its current headquarters on the third floor of Godfrey Hall is no longer adequate for its size. In response to a need for additional square footage, ClemsonLIFE will move to a new location on Clemson’s main campus.
Starting this summer, ClemsonLIFE will officially claim the garden level of Tillman Hall as its new home. With an expected 13 new students arriving this fall–increasing the program’s enrollment to 40 students–the goal of the move is to establish a larger, inviting ‘home’ for all. The additional space in the garden level suite will be converted into a dedicated conference room for faculty, and feature three classrooms for students. Director Erica Walters credits Founding Dean of the College of Education and ClemsonLIFE advocate George Petersen for acquiring the space and arranging the move, and Rick Owens of University Facilities for managing the renovations required by the program.
“It has been a true team effort, with support from President Clements, Dean Petersen, Dr. Joe Ryan, Rick Owens and his team, ” said Walters. “In August, the students of ClemsonLIFE will walk into a high-tech, top-notch facility that matches the Clemson Forward vision in research, engagement, academics, and living. We are thrilled to be a part of the Clemson family and ingrained in the culture of Clemson.”
One of the renovations included a full-floor restoration. The work was completed by external contractors, two full-time employees from ClemsonLIFE, as well as additional program volunteers.
ClemsonLIFE students will also enjoy new living quarters beginning in the 2018-2019 academic year. Housing has arranged for the students to move from Lightsey Bridge to the new Douthit Hills suites at the beginning of the fall semester.
Before entering the new suite, visitors will notice a new flower bed on Tillman’s north side. That’s the work of ClemsonLIFE participants, who worked with Landscape Services to plant various flora, which included “Setsugekkas” (camellia sassanqua), “Big Blues” (Liriope muscari), and “‘Nana’ Dwarf Yaupon Holly” (ilex vomitaria). The north side will also receive a new building awning welcoming students, families and guests to the main entrance, while still keeping with the traditional visual of Tillman.
