Clemson University officials and state leaders broke ground Friday, November 22, 2024, on the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, marking a historic moment for Clemson University and the state of South Carolina as the only college of veterinary medicine in the state continues to take shape.
Earlier on Friday, Clemson’s Board of Trustees approved the name of the new college, which honors Harvey S. Peeler Jr., a 1970 graduate of the University who has served as a senator in the South Carolina General Assembly since 1980.
“Senator Peeler has passionately supported the development of a college of veterinary medicine for more than 20 years, and his efforts throughout the process have been instrumental in developing this new college at Clemson,” Clemson Board Chair Kim Wilkerson said. “In recognition of his contributions to this historic development for Clemson and the entire state, our board is excited to name this new college in his honor.”
Peeler, the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a cattle farmer in his hometown of Gaffney, has experienced firsthand the need for large and small animal veterinarians in the state.
Today marks a historic milestone for our state as we break ground on the new College of Veterinary Medicine — a dream that’s been a long time in the making. This is not just about education — it is about taking care of our animals, supporting our farmers, growing our economy and filling the need for veterinarians in South Carolina.
SEN. HARVEY S. PEELER JR.
Friday’s groundbreaking was held on the site of the new complex. Speakers included Clemson University President Jim Clements, Founding Dean Steven Marks, current pre-veterinary student Ashlee Romp and Sen. Peeler.
“The Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine will be an incredible asset not only for Clemson University but for the entire state of South Carolina, our region and beyond,” said University President Jim Clements. “Today’s historic groundbreaking is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the South Carolina General Assembly, the Clemson University Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students and champions like Senator Harvey Peeler. Together, we are further elevating our land-grant mission and continuing to meet the needs of our communities through education, research and service.”
The complex is located across the street from Clemson University’s Equine Center on West Queen Street in Pendleton. Nestled adjacent to the Clemson Experimental Forest, the College will prepare highly skilled and caring veterinarians to address a critical shortage in the state. The complex comprises six buildings* designed to provide students with spaces for collaboration, hands-on learning and personal growth.
“What an amazing time for this University and our state,” said Founding Dean Steven Marks. “Our goal is to create day-one-prepared veterinarians to serve communities around South Carolina. Animal and human health are directly connected, and we are so proud to be a part of creating the next generation of veterinarians.”
The College will help address the shortage of veterinarians in the state. A third of South Carolina counties have fewer than five veterinarians, and 48 percent of the state’s counties have fewer than 10 veterinarians. While qualified candidates are applying to veterinary colleges, 500-1,000 are not admitted due to a capacity shortage at existing colleges.
The Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine continues the process of earning accreditation. It’s expected to welcome its first class of 80 students in Fall 2026. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree and curriculum have all been approved by the Board of Trustees, and the hiring of faculty and staff will continue in earnest for the next two years.
More information about the College and updates on its progress can be found on social media at @ClemsonVetMed or online at clemson.edu/cvm.
* The Hub will be a vibrant center where students can attend classes, study and engage with each other. The Clinical Teaching Building will house several labs and serve as the home for the Peeler College of Veterinary Medicine Community Clinic, where the public can access veterinary care. The Research Building will house faculty and graduate student offices, as well as research labs dedicated to advancing veterinary science. The Ambulatory Service Building will have a significant impact on the Upstate region, providing fourth-year students with vital clinical rotation experience on area farms as mobile veterinarians. The Equine Teaching Building will offer students a dedicated space to practice and learn about equine health in a safe and controlled environment. The Farm Animal Teaching Building will include specialized spaces essential for training students in farm animal care.
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