When we talk about ethics, it’s easy to think only in terms of rules, policies and obligations. But at its core, ethical conduct is about how we treat one another and how we build a community where everyone can thrive. Living our values means choosing, day after day, to do the right thing — and that makes well-being a natural part of the conversation.
When people are worried about their most basic needs — like whether they’ll eat today — it’s harder to bring their best selves to work, study or service. Stress, fatigue and distraction can cloud judgment and erode engagement. Supporting well-being isn’t just kindness; it’s essential to preserving the moral strength and effectiveness of our community and doing the right thing by one another.
As a community guided by integrity and care, we strive to identify and reduce barriers that affect the well-being of our students and employees. Food insecurity is one area where this commitment is especially visible. Whether you are a student juggling coursework and side jobs, or an employee facing sudden expenses, food insecurity can impact any of us.
A Personal Perspective
In the course of a work project, my teammate Angela Gambrell and I realized that while Clemson had made meaningful strides in addressing student food insecurity, existing resources did not serve employees. We knew it was likely that some of our colleagues were quietly facing food insecurity from time to time, unsure where to turn for help.
Recognizing this gap, and with the support of university leadership, we undertook the task of exploring how to expand campus resources to support employees as well as students. That effort ultimately led to the creation of The Nook— a space built to ensure that our faculty and staff have access to nutritious food when they need it. It’s a simple but powerful reflection of what it means to do the right thing for one another. The Nook recently celebrated one year of operation on main campus.
Pickens County: Clemson’s Home
Because Clemson is situated in Pickens County, the statistics closest to our campus matter most. According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap (2023):
- 10.7% of Pickens County residents — about 13,200 people — experience food insecurity.
- Among children, that rate rises to 13.6%, or roughly 3,140 kids.
(Feeding America)
These numbers carry a moral weight for Clemson. This is not just data — it’s our neighbors, colleagues, and, at times, our students and staff.
Clemson’s Commitment in Action
To respond ethically — and to do the right thing — Clemson offers resources designed to meet real needs in our community:
- Paw Pantry – Provides access to nutritious groceries for students who need them.
- The Nook – Offers the same support for employees and student workers.
- Emergency Assistance Program – Delivers short-term help with food or other essentials during a crisis.
- Community Partnerships – Strengthens relationships with local support agencies across the Upstate.
Using these resources is not a sign of weakness — it’s an act of strength and self-care. Supporting them is a commitment to do the right thing, affirming our shared responsibility to one another.
How You Can Help — Because Doing the Right Thing Starts With You
- If you’re in need, please reach out — these resources exist for you, and you deserve dignity and support.
- If you can give, consider donating shelf-stable items or your time.
- If you see someone struggling, share information, help them connect, or simply offer encouragement.
Together, we create a Clemson community where ethical conduct is not just words on a page, but a lived commitment — and where every Tiger can stand tall, supported, and empowered to do the right thing for themselves and others.
