The Clemson University Clemson LIFE program graduated 14 students during its recent commencement ceremony, which was held April 30 at NewSpring Church of Clemson.
Clemson LIFE 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.
The program welcomed special guests to the ceremony, including Clemson University President Jim Clements and Clemson University First Lady Beth Clements, who presented certificates and rings, respectively, to LIFE graduates. George J. Petersen, founding dean of the College of Education, and Joe Ryan, Sue Stanzione Distinguished Professor of Special Education, were also on hand to welcome students and their families to the event.
Eric Mac Lain, studio analyst for ESPN and the ACC Network and former Clemson student athlete, delivered the ceremony’s commencement address.
Learn more about all of the Clemson LIFE graduates, what they have planned after graduation and what they consider highlights of their time at Clemson in the LIFE program.
Frankie Antonelli
Mt. Pleasant, SC
Plans after graduation
I will be living in Clemson and continue working at Your Pie.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part of Clemson was being a manager for the Women’s Basketball team, and I made so many new friends.
Katie Beck
Charleston, SC
Plans after graduation
After graduation, I am going to spend more time hanging out with my family and get a job in Charleston.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite thing about Clemson was meeting new friends and having roommates!
Graham Bitzer
Alpharetta, GA
Plans after graduation
I am staying in Clemson and working at the Shepherd Hotel and interviewing at Madren Center.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite thing during my time at Clemson LIFE was joining a fraternity, BYX, and being the first Clemson LIFE student to partner with the Air Force ROTC.
Emily Parkey Ferguson
Atlanta, GA
Plans after graduation
I am moving into a new apartment in Clemson and working at the Shepherd Hotel.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
I have loved everything about Clemson – from my teachers and roommates to tailgating and attending so many fun events!
Blakeley Kress
Houston, TX
Plans after graduation
I am staying in Clemson and working at TD’s and Sully Steamers.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part about being a part of Clemson LIFE was making lifelong friendships.
Bryson Marsh
Waco, TX
Plans after graduation
I am moving to Waco, Texas and working at Raising Canes.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part about Clemson was getting involved with FCA.
Grace Myatt
Isle of Palms, SC
Plans after graduation
I am moving to Isle of Palms and working at Harris Teeter.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part of Clemson LIFE was getting to meet Dabo!
Mary Catherine Price
Jefferson, GA
Plans after graduation
I am staying in Clemson living at U Centre and working at The Delish Sisters restaurant inside the Shepherd Hotel.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
I loved having the opportunity to go to college – especially joining my sorority, Tri Delta!
Leah Shelton
Perry, GA
Plans after graduation
I am moving back home and can’t wait to find a new job with all the skills I have learned!
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
I had so much fun here because I had great teachers and friends.
Tanner Smith
St. Matthews, SC
Plans after graduation
I am staying in Clemson and working at the Shepherd Hotel.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part of being at Clemson was all the people I got to meet and build relationships with and my roommates.
Alana Spencer
Atlanta, GA
Plans after graduation
After graduation, I am going to look for a job and opportunities to dance.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part of Clemson was learning new skills, especially grocery shopping and cooking!
Tyler Trout
Atlanta, GA
Plans after graduation
I am staying in Clemson and working at Evolve, a restaurant downtown.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
It’s hard to pick one favorite memory – I loved everything about my time at Clemson!
Allison Watry
Milton, GA
Plans after graduation
I am moving to Atlanta after graduation and working at an elementary school.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part of Clemson LIFE was meeting new people and all the fun activities – especially swim team!
Noah Wynne
Statesville, NC
Plans after graduation
I am staying in Clemson, moving into a new apartment and working at the Shepherd Hotel.
Favorite thing about Clemson LIFE
My favorite part of Clemson was meeting the football players and watching them play!
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