Duke Energy Foundation grant funds four Clemson University programs

January 7, 2015

CLEMSON, SC – Four Clemson University programs that support students and teachers will be enhanced in the new year by a $115,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation.

Sue Lasser, director of Clemson University PEER, greets James Wurst, Duke Energy account manager, and Scott Miller, Duke Energy manager of government and community relations for Anderson, Oconee, Pickens and Abbeville counties.

The grant funds will be administered to:

  • PEER (Programs for Educational Enrichment and Retention), $40,000
  • WISE (Women in Science and Engineering), $30,000
  • EMAGINE!, $30,000
  • Teacher education course at the Duke Energy Bad Creek Hydroelectric Station, $15,000

“Education has always been a focal point of our commitment to corporate giving,” said Scott Miller, government and community relations manager with Duke Energy. “We have long been proud to partner with Clemson University to support efforts that continue to make a difference in the lives of so many students and teachers in the Palmetto State.”

Attendees at the presentation include Sue Lasser, PEER director (left); Ann Marie Alexander, senior director of corporate and foundation relations for Clemson University; James Wurst, Duke Energy account manager; Scott Miller, Duke Energy manager of government and community relations for Anderson, Oconee, Pickens and Abbeville counties; Serita Acker, WISE director; Harrison Trammell, president and CEO of the Clemson University Foundation; Barbara Speziale, associate dean of Undergraduate Studies and professor of biology who leads the teacher education course at Bad Creek Hydro Station; Brad Putman, associate professor of civil engineering who works with EMAGINE!; and Susan Schiff, EMAGINE! director.

PEER helps freshman minority students adjust to their new lives at Clemson University and excel academically in their chosen fields of study.

WISE is a Clemson University organization that helps and supports females in engineering and science majors.

EMAGINE! encourages middle and high school students to consider engineering as a career. Clemson University faculty and students offer hands-on activities related to civil, electrical, computer, mechanical and materials science engineering.

The teacher education course, taught by Clemson faculty, introduces S.C. teachers to the education resources at the Bad Creek Hydroelectric Stationand Outdoor Classroom.

“The Duke Energy Foundation continues to make a difference in the lives of students and faculty in the fields of engineering and science,” said Ann Marie Alexander, senior director of corporate and foundation relations for the university. “We appreciate the Foundation’s generous and longstanding support of Clemson University.”

The grant is part of Clemson University’s The Will to Lead capital campaign to raise $1 billion to support Clemson students and faculty with scholarships, professorships, facilities, technology and enhanced opportunities for learning and research.