Introduction
Founded in 1869, Claflin University is a private, coeducational, liberal arts institution located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Claflin University is named after Lee Claflin, a Massachusetts philanthropist, and his son William Claflin, who was the governor of Massachusetts during the American Civil War. Claflin University is a historically black university (HBCU) and is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in South Carolina. It has a rich history and a tradition of excellence that is evident in the academic achievements of its students and the many contributions made by its alumni. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Claflin University that you may not have known.
The First HBCU in South Carolina to Earn the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement
In 2015, Claflin University became the first historically black college or university in South Carolina to receive the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. This prestigious classification is awarded to institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and engagement. Claflin University has a long-standing tradition of community service and outreach. It has partnered with local organizations and businesses to provide services that benefit the community, such as health fairs, job fairs, and educational programs.
One of the most notable programs is the Claflin University Community Development Corporation (CUCDC). The CUCDC is a non-profit organization that was established by Claflin University in 1995. It provides affordable housing and other community development services to low- and moderate-income families in Orangeburg and surrounding counties. The CUCDC has built over 100 homes in the area and has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for its outstanding work.
Claflin University Has a Rich History of Producing Successful Alumni
Claflin University has a long history of producing successful alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. Some notable alumni of Claflin University include:
- Judge Matthew Perry Jr., who was a prominent civil rights attorney and a federal judge in South Carolina. Perry played a key role in the desegregation of schools in South Carolina and was an advocate for voting rights for African Americans.
- Dr. Leo Twiggs, who is a renowned artist and professor emeritus of art at South Carolina State University. Twiggs is known for his unique technique of using dyed fabric in his paintings, which has been exhibited in galleries across the United States.
- Dr. Maceo Nance Jr., who was the first African American to earn a doctorate in mathematics from the University of South Carolina. Nance was a professor of mathematics at Prairie View A&M University and served as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Alabama State University.
In addition to these notable alumni, Claflin University has produced many successful business leaders, educators, and professionals in various fields.
Claflin University is Home to the First African American Male Valedictorian in the United States
Richard T. Greener, who was born in Philadelphia in 1844, was the first African American male to graduate from Harvard University. He was also the first African American male to serve as a professor at the University of South Carolina. Greener was a brilliant scholar and a trailblazer in the fight for civil rights. He was appointed as the secretary of the Grant Monument Association, which was responsible for the construction of the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Greener’s connection to Claflin University comes from his time as a student at the institution. He attended Claflin University from 1865 to 1869 and graduated with the highest honors.In fact, Greener’s academic achievements were so impressive that he was chosen to deliver the valedictory address at Claflin University’s first commencement ceremony in 1869. This made him the first African American male valedictorian in the United States.
Greener’s legacy at Claflin University is commemorated by the Richard T. Greener Institute for Social Policy Studies, which was established in 2013. The institute is dedicated to promoting social justice and equality through research, education, and advocacy.
Claflin University Offers a Wide Range of Academic Programs and Research Opportunities
Claflin University is known for its strong academic programs in various fields, including business, education, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in over 20 areas of study.
Claflin University is also committed to providing students with research opportunities that can enhance their academic experience and prepare them for future careers. The university has a robust research program that includes partnerships with industry and government agencies, as well as collaborations with other academic institutions.
One of the notable research programs at Claflin University is the Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. The center is dedicated to advancing research in bioinformatics, which is a field that combines computer science, biology, and mathematics to analyze and interpret biological data. The center’s research has led to the development of new technologies that can help diagnose and treat diseases.
Conclusion
Claflin University is a unique institution that has a rich history and a tradition of excellence. From its commitment to community service and engagement to its production of successful alumni, Claflin University has made significant contributions to society. Its academic programs and research opportunities have prepared students for successful careers and have advanced knowledge in various fields. As Claflin University continues to evolve and grow, it will undoubtedly continue to make an impact on the world around us.