As members of the Clemson Family, my beloved peers and I write to advocate, and bring to light, the truly inspirational life of one of our own. We feel compelled to act, and to raise funds to help her continue to chase her dreams. To respect her privacy, since she is unaware of this fund, we are not releasing her name, but rest assured she is the closest thing to an angel on earth.

She is a South Carolina resident and is currently in her junior year of college, studying Elementary Education at Clemson University. She has a heart for children, and desires to serve as a teacher whose impact is felt in the lives of those she serves.

Her journey to this point has been perilous, but through her trust in the Almighty God, the faithfulness and generosity of friends, she has overcome. She lost her father at the age of sixteen, and has been called to provide for herself all that she has. She diligently works out of need, not want, for ALL of the tangible things one needs in their life. Amidst all trials, her chin has been held high, her passions have burned like wild fire, and she has pressed on.

When asked by her “adopted Clemson Family” to write what Clemson means to her, she wrote,

“When I think about what I hope to give back to Clemson, I keep coming back to why I believe God placed me here in the first place. I’ve been shown so much kindness, encouragement, and provision through this community, and I want to give that same kind of love and support back. Clemson has been a place where I’ve grown not just academically, but personally, in learning to walk by faith, to show kindness to others, and to embrace uncertainty by taking steps in confidence even when I can’t see the whole picture.

As I finish up my time here, my hope is that I leave Clemson better than I found it. I want to show up faithfully in my classes, in my friendships, and in the small everyday moments. I want to be a light to the people I come in contact with here by showing kindness and intentionality. I want others to feel that Clemson is a place where they are seen, supported, and deeply cared for, because that is what it’s been for me. I also hope that I can leave people with the same heart to be intentional with their time here and make the most of the opportunities that college has to offer. One day, when I get to wear my Clemson ring and say that I’m a Clemson alumna, I hope that carries meaning beyond academics or career success. I want it to resemble how I’ve been shaped into a better friend, daughter, and woman than I was when I first arrived.”

The gentleness of her spirit and voice makes everyone she meets feel seen and loved, and she has an authenticity to her character that is a rarity in today's day. As members of her Clemson Family, we desire her well being in all facets of life. We see a need, and we feel called to respond. Through this fund, we hope to provide her relief financially, remind her personally that she is believed in and capable, and most importantly, that she is so dearly loved.

After catching a glimpse of who she is not only through our words, but more importantly her own, our question is, how will you serve? Any contributions, whether it is a dollar, prayers, or referrals to other people, are incredibly impactful ways to serve.

We hope this touches you in the ways that she has touched us.

Ever loyal.