Darla Moore Scholars of Veterinary Medicine established

The Darla Moore Foundation establishes scholarships to support Vet Med students from her home region 

The Darla Moore Foundation has created the Darla Moore Scholars of Veterinary Medicine program at Clemson University, a transformative scholarship initiative designed to expand access to veterinary education while strengthening rural communities in eight counties within South Carolina’s Pee Dee region.

Beginning with the inaugural class of students enrolling this fall, the program will provide full financial support to six students preparing to enroll in Clemson’s Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine. Covering tuition, fees and living expenses for up to four years, the scholarship enables recipients to complete their veterinary education without the financial barriers often associated with professional degrees.

“Growing up in rural South Carolina, I saw firsthand how important animal health is to the vitality of our communities. Veterinarians support not only the well-being of animals, but also the farmers, families and local economies that depend on them. Through this program, we are investing in students who understand the unique needs of rural communities and who will be equipped with the knowledge and compassion to serve them. Talent exists everywhere, but opportunity doesn’t always follow. My hope is this commitment and the opportunities created by the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine.” 

DARLA MOORE

Scholars are selected from eight rural South Carolina counties where access to veterinary services is limited, and agricultural economies rely heavily on animal health. By investing in students from these communities, the program directly advances Clemson’s land-grant mission to serve the state through education, research and outreach.

“Veterinary medicine plays a critical role in agriculture, food systems, the environment and the well-being of families across South Carolina,” said Steven Marks, founding dean of the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine. “This program ensures that talented students from rural communities have the opportunity to pursue their calling and return home equipped to make a lasting difference.”

Clemson’s newest college, buoyed by this transformative support for students, will help address veterinarian shortages in rural areas while preparing graduates to serve agricultural regions and underserved communities across the state.

The initiative builds on a longstanding partnership between Clemson University and The Darla Moore Foundation focused on expanding opportunity and leadership throughout South Carolina. Previous philanthropic investments have supported teacher preparation and educational leadership.

Darla Moore’s father, Eugene T. Moore, was a 1949 graduate of Clemson and a highly respected teacher, coach and principal in Florence County. In his honor, Moore supported the creation of the Eugene T. Moore School of Education, home to renowned classroom and clinical training for pre-service teachers, professional mentoring of early-career teachers and cutting-edge continuing education for in-service teachers. The Moore family’s support and friendship have imprinted a legacy on the College of Education through a shared commitment to excellence.