DATE: October 30, 2007

CONTACT: Jerry Reel, (864) 656-2283
jvreel@clemson.edu

WRITER: Angela Nixon, (864) 656-0382
anixon@clemson.edu

SC-ETV to air documentary about Thomas Green Clemson

CLEMSON — South Carolina ETV will air a documentary titled “Thomas Green Clemson: A Life and Legacy” Sunday, Nov. 4 at 2:30 p.m.

The documentary, produced as part of Clemson University’s Thomas Green Clemson Bicentennial celebration, showcases the life of the university’s founder, who was a scholar, a diplomat and a scientist. Clemson’s life story unfolds through interviews with researchers and scholars, historical documents and reenactments in the 30-minute documentary.

The documentary shows Clemson’s commitment to improve higher education in the state and the nation.

“Mr. Clemson had a long-term desire, beginning in the 1850s, to promote agricultural, scientific and technological education throughout the U.S.,” said Clemson University historian Jerry Reel. “He was one of three men who authored the Land Grant Act, otherwise known as the Morrill Act. He was tireless in his urging for South Carolina to move in that direction.”

“Thomas Green Clemson: A Life and Legacy” was produced by Sara Diaz of Santa Fe, N.M. SC-ETV will air it again 9 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20.

For more information about Clemson University’s Thomas Green Clemson Bicentennial celebration, visit www.clemson.edu/tgc200.