By Serita Acker
As executive director of PEER & WISE, I have dedicated my career to helping students discover the incredible opportunities waiting for them in STEM. Every new academic year reminds me why this mission is so important and why the work we do matters so deeply.
This fall, I am excited to continue building pathways for students to reach their goals, achieve their dreams, and take their place as leaders of tomorrow. My hope is that every student who walks through our doors feels welcomed, supported and inspired to pursue the endless possibilities that education can unlock.
Even over the summer we continued to lay the foundation. I have had the privilege over the last couple months of watching young minds light up as they explore engineering, science, and technology through hands‑on learning experiences. Through a series of summer camps, we had the opportunity to introduce STEM topics, build confidence and help campers see themselves in roles they may never have imagined.
I am especially thankful to the partners, alumni and sponsors– including GE Vernova, Duke Energy, TransDigm and VIPR-GS– whose generosity makes this work possible. Their continued support helps provide the resources, experiences and opportunities that allow our students to thrive. It is because of their belief in our mission that we are able to keep moving forward and shaping the future.
In addition to camps and outreach, PEER & WISE offers mentoring, coaching and tutoring services to all students in our college throughout the academic year. These programs are designed to help students thrive, feel a part of the Clemson Family and be prepared to succeed academically and personally throughout their Clemson journey.
What inspires me most about the year ahead is the potential I see in each student. They are filled with curiosity, determination and a drive to have an impact on the world. Our job is to fuel that spark and remind them that despite the rigorous academic journey, they can achieve their goals with the support of PEER&WISE.
Education builds not only careers but also lives. It is about giving students the tools, the confidence and the vision to become the next generation of leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.
As we begin this new academic year, I am proud of what we have accomplished and even more hopeful for what is yet to come. Every student deserves the opportunity to shine, and every dream deserves the chance to come true.
