The Clemson University ClemsonLIFE ™ program graduated 15 students during its recent commencement ceremony, which was held April 26 at NewSpring Church of Clemson.
ClemsonLIFE is a post-secondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities that prioritizes job skills and independent living. The recent ceremony allowed graduates to attend with faculty, staff, family and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of its new alumni.
Among these 15 graduates were four graduates of ClemsonLIFE’s hospitality certificate program. This employment-based, two-year program combines classroom and employment experience to prepare students for employment in the hospitality industry.
The program welcomed special guests to the ceremony, including Clemson University President James P. Clements, Provost Robert H. Jones, College of Education Dean Kristin Gehsmann, Executive Director and Sue Stanzione Distinguished Professorship for ClemsonLIFE Joseph Ryan, ClemsonLIFE Program Director Erica Walters and Clemson Mayor Robert Halfacre.
Dabo Swinney, a long-time supporter of the LIFE program through Clemson Athletics and Dabo’s All In Team Foundation, delivered the ceremony’s commencement address.
Learn more about all of the ClemsonLIFE graduates, what they have planned after graduation and what they consider highlights of their time at Clemson in the LIFE program.
Ross Hicks
Alpharetta, Georgia
Plans After College
I am going into the Hospitality Certificate Program at ClemsonLIFE. I will be living with my friends in our own apartment.
Favorite Part of Clemson
Meeting all of my friends and being a brother in my fraternity, Fiji.
