Clemson University Youth Learning Institute unveils multipurpose dining facility at Camp Hannon

SUNSET — Clemson University officials, community leaders and philanthropists came together recently for a dedication ceremony marking the grand opening of a multipurpose dining facility at Camp Hannon. The mountainous 80-acre Upstate site in Pickens County is one of five locations across the state where the Clemson University Youth Learning Institute (YLI) provides programming to educate, develop and serve the youth of South Carolina and beyond.

The 47,000-square-foot building provides tremendous flexibility and was designed to accommodate the diverse needs of Camp Hannon visitors and YLI staff. It features a professional grade kitchen, dining space for up to 90, gathering space for more than 250 people, a wraparound porch and ample office and meeting spaces for camp operations. Additionally, the indoor facility serves as an emergency shelter during inclement weather.

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In 2010, The Scott Hannon Memorial Foundation and Clemson University forged a partnership to serve the youth in South Carolina by building capacity at Camp Hannon. This first phase of development included the construction of two cabins with lodging for 75 people. The multipurpose facility dedication ceremony marks a new milestone for both partners as growth continues at Camp Hannon.

“This is more than just a building. It is a physical representation of the joint commitment shared by the Hannon Foundation and Clemson University to nurture and educate South Carolina’s youth.” said Stephen Lance, executive director of YLI, “Both organizations are dedicated to outreach and this new resource enables us to better serve our community. As YLI builds our own capacity we are able to provide more valuable programming, increasing our impact statewide. ”

Camp Hannon facts:

• Camp Hannon hosted more than 1,500 participants in fiscal 2019.
• Camp Hannon reached more than 800 students throughout the year who participated in our fields studies program “Exploration Hannon.”
• Over an eight-week period this summer, 270 campers experienced Camp Hannon “Adventure Camp.”

Camp activities and features:

• climbing tower
• natural rock climbing wall
• waterfall hiking trail
• teams course
• rappelling tower
• zip line canopy tour
• swimming area
• campfire ring with seating for up to 40