On March 21, 2025, the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at Clemson University reached another major milestone in its development. In collaboration with Turner Construction, architects LS3P and Flad, and Clemson leadership, the university celebrated the progress of the CVM Hub with a symbolic beam signing ceremony.

With the future CVM Hub as a backdrop, a vibrant orange beam was covered with signatures from university officials, construction teams, and key supporters—each representing the dedication and teamwork that have brought this project to life.

“The beam signing event was amazing,” said founding Dean Steven Marks. “Standing on the site of our future campus with our Clemson colleagues under beautiful South Carolina blue skies surrounded by the Clemson Experimental Forest seemed like a dream. The fact that this dream of so many is now a reality was not lost in the excitement of the moment.”

The creation of South Carolina’s first College of Veterinary Medicine has been made possible through the unwavering support of Clemson University leadership and state legislators. State Senator Harvey S. Peeler Jr., a dairy farmer and the college’s namesake, played a key role in rallying support and enthusiasm for the institution. The college aims to tackle the state’s veterinarian shortage, ensuring future generations have access to quality education in veterinary medicine.

“This past November, members of the Clemson Family, Board of Trustees, community partners, and our outstanding legislators, including Senator Harvey S. Peeler Jr., came together for our official groundbreaking ceremony,” said University President Jim Clements. “Now, nearly four months to the day, we are signing and placing the beam of what will be the Hub of the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, bringing the longstanding vision of a veterinary school for the state of South Carolina one step closer to reality. I am thankful for the continued support and commitment of all those who have made this possible and am excited for Clemson to lead fiercely forward in education, research, and service for our state, region, and beyond.”

The orange beam will be placed atop the CVM Hub, the heart of the new veterinary complex. This dynamic space will serve as a hub for learning, collaboration, and student engagement. The beam’s placement is a symbolic moment, reflecting the university’s commitment to education and progress in veterinary medicine.

“The signing of this beam represents more than just the progress of a building – it symbolizes a historic step forward for Clemson University and the state of South Carolina,” said Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Robert H. Jones. “The Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine will address a critical shortage of veterinarians and serve as a cornerstone for advancing animal and human health, strengthening our state’s economy, and keeping top talent in South Carolina.”

Honoring a Legacy

A particularly heartfelt moment of the ceremony was the addition of a special signature: Dr. Tim Boosinger, co-chair of the CVM Steering Committee. Though he passed away in January, his digital signature was placed on the beam in recognition of his instrumental role in shaping the college.

“The event was especially meaningful as we placed Dr. Tim Boosinger’s digital signature on the beam posthumously,” said Dean Marks. “Dr. Boosinger was both an Auburn and Clemson Tiger who dedicated his career to veterinary medicine. Adding a new college to the Clemson Family is a very proud moment for the CVM team, and we were honored to recognize his contributions.”

Building the Future

Construction on the CVM Hub is progressing rapidly, with framing well underway. By late summer, the structure is expected to be enclosed. April will see the start of steel framing on the Clinical Teaching and Research buildings, while site preparation accelerates for the Equine Teaching and Food Animal facilities. Steel framing for the Ambulatory building is set to begin in early summer.

As a special part of the beam signing event, Dean Marks was presented with a commemorative jar of dirt from the construction site—a unique tradition in sports and now, in Clemson history. The gesture serves as a reminder of the project’s humble beginnings and its profound impact on the future.

“Collecting some earth from the CVM construction site will always remind us of where we came from and what an incredible opportunity it is to build the first College of Veterinary Medicine in South Carolina at Clemson University,” said Dean Marks. “Go Tigers!”

Originally reported by Stacia Harris in Clemson News.