Clemson University Looks Back on 200 Years of Global Education
As Clemson University celebrates two centuries of global education history, it focuses on a major surge in study abroad programs and new international collaborations.
Continuing a two-century tradition of global engagement rooted in its founder's education in France, Clemson University is drawing attention with a 32 percent increase in international student programs.
Increasing Participation in Global Education
With the start of the new academic year, Clemson University is preparing to send nearly 2,000 students to more than 100 different locations worldwide in the 2026-2027 academic years.
Over the past three academic years, the participation rate in the university's study abroad programs has increased by more than 32 percent.
The Importance of International Programs
Study abroad experiences allow students to gain global citizenship awareness and stand out academically and professionally.
These opportunities also directly support experiential learning activities, which are an integral part of the university's core mission.
Historical Connections and Founder's Legacy
The foundation of the university's international ties dates back to 1826 when its founder, Thomas Green Clemson, studied at the Paris School of Mines.
Historian Otis Pickett notes that this overseas experience opened a window of foresight for the founder and shaped his worldview.
New Collaborations for the Future
The university administration aims to expand the scope and accessibility of innovative international programs over the next 200 years.
Plans are underway to work more closely with global industry partners to create professionally qualified programs for the next generation of students.
Academic Achievement Awards
The university honored five successful faculty members who contributed to this rapid growth process and stood out with their dedicated work through various awards.
The Pamela Maddex Hendrix Legacy Award, the Emerging Global Educator Award, the Global Classroom Teaching Award, and the Experiential Learning Award found their recipients.
Upcoming Events and Fair
The Pam Hendrix Center for Education Abroad will host the annual Study Abroad Fair on Wednesday, September 16, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Hendrix Student Center.