Clemson University has received a significant gift from The Schoen Foundation to support the ClemsonLIFE (Learning is for Everyone) program, a nationally recognized model for postsecondary education that prepares young people with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment and independent living through a combination of academic coursework and career exploration.
The Schoen Foundation, established by Sharon Schoen and the late William “Bill” Schoen, is now led by their daughter, Karen Schoen Sutton, together with their family. Although a graduate of the University of Florida, Karen became part of the Clemson Family through her marriage to Jack “Jay” Sutton Jr., BSME ’84 who was recently appointed to the IPTAY board. Today, the Schoen Foundation continues its multi-generational legacy of making a meaningful impact by supporting education and initiatives that honor and assist veterans.
The $2.25 million commitment includes a $2 million endowment to establish the Schoen Foundation Endowment for ClemsonLIFE and a $250,000 gift to create the Schoen Foundation ClemsonLIFE Annual Fund. This investment will provide sustainable resources to ensure that ClemsonLIFE continues to offer transformative educational and career development opportunities.
“I am grateful for the incredible generosity of Jay and Karen Sutton, whose gift through the Schoen Foundation is a testament to the power of education and the impact that philanthropy can have on the lives of our students,” said University President Jim Clements. “Through establishing the Schoen Foundation Endowment and Annual Fund for ClemsonLIFE, the Schoen Foundation is creating a legacy of support that will continue to positively impact the lives of our Tigers and their families for many years to come.”
A Program That Changes Lives
For more than 15 years, ClemsonLIFE has offered students with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to experience college, develop independence, and prepare for competitive employment. The program combines academic coursework, career exploration, and social integration, empowering students to lead productive, fulfilling lives.
Enrollment in ClemsonLIFE has grown from an initial cohort of five students to more than 50, with graduates achieving employment and independent living at rates well above the national average.
“Our family and the Schoen Foundation believe deeply in the power of education to open doors,” said Karen Sutton, chair of the board for the Schoen Foundation. “By supporting ClemsonLIFE, we are helping students gain independence, pursue their passions and create meaningful futures. It is an honor to invest in a program that uplifts students and their families for generations to come.”
While ClemsonLIFE receives some University support, its growth and success depend heavily on philanthropy. The Schoen Foundation gift addresses critical funding needs for staffing, facilities, student assistance, and program expansion, ensuring the program’s long-term sustainability.
The Schoen Foundation’s investment ensures that ClemsonLIFE students will continue to receive premier educational opportunities, while also inspiring others to support programs that break barriers and create pathways to success.
“This gift represents the very best of what it means to be part of the Clemson Family,” said Brian O’Rourke, vice president for Advancement. “The Schoen Foundation’s commitment will not only sustain ClemsonLIFE, but also inspire others to invest in programs that transform lives.”
A Legacy of Impact
The Schoen Foundation has a history of supporting programs that change lives at Clemson. Previous gifts have strengthened the University’s military-affiliated programs and helped fund the POWER Women’s Leadership Academy, which is a one-of-a-kind program for Clemson female student-athletes. This latest commitment builds on that legacy, extending the Foundation’s impact to empower students in the ClemsonLIFE program.
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