Starlett Russell Craig, 72, former director of Academic Outreach for the Charles H. Houston Center for the Study of the Black Experience in Education at Clemson University, died Sunday, June 28, 2020, at her home.
A native of Asheville, Craig retired in 2015 after 25 years at Clemson. She was a graduate of Spelman College.
“Starlett was a trailblazer and played a huge role in the evolution of diversity programming at Clemson,” said Jerry Knighton, assistant vice president for Access and Equity. “Before many of us thought about study abroad programs, Starlett was traveling the world and exposing us all to the value of a global education.”
She was instrumental in the success of the Clemson Career Workshop and she created the SAT Boot Camp, two weeklong residential programs dedicated to academic development and college preparation of rising high school juniors and seniors.
Among its participants was the late Sen. Clementa Pinckney, one of the Emmanuel Nine, who spoke highly of his experience in the program.
“Starlett’s contribution to Clemson’s diversity journey cannot be denied,” Knighton said. “May her legacy continue to live on.”
Craig was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for more than 50 years and of the Clemson League of Women Voters and the Clemson Area African American Museum.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Ray Cremation & Funeral Service of Asheville is in charge of arrangements.
