By: Julio Hernandez,  Assistant to the President for Community Outreach & Engagement, Clemson University 
August 6, 2025

We kicked off the session with a shared purpose: ensuring that all seven committees under this initiative had the chance to update one another on what’s working well, where challenges remain, and how we can improve moving forward

The conversations were rich and engaging—everyone appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from each committee. This exchange not only sparked valuable ideas but also created opportunities for committees to collaborate on potential new initiatives together.

A particularly special aspect this year was the inclusion of Clemson City Council members serving on each committee, alongside incredible Clemson students from student government. One student shared how proud she felt to see her university partnering with the City of Clemson in such a meaningful and visible way.

Moments like these remind us why this work matters: building a stronger, more connected Clemson community where collaboration drives impact.

Pictured above: Robert Halfacre, City of Clemson Mayor, ITGA Board Member  
Julio Hernandez, Assistant to the President for Community Outreach & Engagement, Clemson University