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We build capacity for individuals, organizations, and communities.

Our team shows up every day to train and develop the next generation of South Carolina’s leaders.

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CULI does this through...

Applied Research

Organizational and Professional Development

Experiential Learning

In alignment with Clemson Elevate

We have created an environment where...

Three students laughing together as they walk down campus steps
  • Hands-on, experiential learning
  • Opportunities for research education
  • Engagement with 50+ Clemson students annually through employment, internships, and assistantships
    •  
Researcher in a lab coat and face shield using a pipette in a laboratory
  • Positioned within Clemson’s Division of Research to creatively explore, evaluate, and improve new and existing programs
  • Operate a secure research facility in Pickens, SC
  • Collaborate in creating partnerships
  • Received over $50M in sponsored awards
Volunteer tending rows of plants inside a greenhouse tunnel
  • Offer programs and trainings that help stabilize educator workforce and employee retention
  • Encourage and support academic success
  • Provide health and wellness education to 12,000+ throughout SC
  • Assist local community agencies in solving real-world problems
Map of South Carolina marking CULI Headquarters, Clemson University, Camp Hannon, Camp Long and Camp Bob Cooper

Letter from our Executive Director

Formerly known as the Clemson University Youth Learning Institute (YLI), the Clemson University Learning Institute (CULI) adopted its current name to more accurately reflect the scope of our work with people of all ages. Established in 2001 as a public service unit, YLI was focused on creating and implementing innovative programs for youth. In 2015, the unit was repositioned under Clemson’s Division of Research, expanding its mission to include robust research and evaluation focused on human performance and resilience. Today, CULI continues to build on this foundation by combining innovative programming, research, evaluation, and professional learning.

Annually, CULI serves over 60,000 participants with a $19 million budget that is 100% self-generated and has generated more than $265 million in external revenue since its inception.

CULI helps fulfill Clemson’s strategic plan to propel success and strengthen its reputation by being recognized in experiential learning, applied research, and building community throughout South Carolina and beyond. We accomplish this by developing unique public/private partnerships and creating best practice models that maximize the potential for individuals and organizations. Our flexibility allows us to pilot new initiatives that can be evaluated, replicated, and scaled by our partnering agencies.

We believe that through our efforts, we further strengthen Clemson University and promote the mission of a land-grant university by serving people, solving real problems, and creating a better tomorrow. 

Stephen Lance Photo Stephen W. Lance
Executive Director
Clemson University Learning Institute