The Challenge

Clemson University sought to create both a welcoming gateway and meaningful homecoming destination under one roof with the new Nieri Family Alumni and Visitor Center. The center unifies visitor services, alumni headquarters, career services, and donor engagement in one destination. Every space is designed to create authentic experiences for audiences ranging from prospective students to lifelong alumni. Working alongside Cooper Carry and GMC Architects, the goal was to create a destination that draws people to explore and connect with every aspect of the Clemson experience.

When you walk into the Nieri Family Alumni Center, it's an immediate wow.

Brian O'Rourke

VP of Advancement, Clemson University

The Strategy

Jack Porter’s approach focused on creating moments of personal discovery throughout the space. We developed integrated touchpoints that celebrate what unites the Tiger family: shared pride in Clemson’s beauty, tradition, and transformative impact. Interactive kiosks showcase real student stories focused on their Clemson experience, while the centerpiece ring display creates a truly unique engagement for alumni. Positioned alongside the Walker Golf Course with views of Lake Hartwell and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the center’s location reinforces Clemson’s surrounding beauty while tying visitors to core campus. Every design element supports the complete alumni lifecycle, from first impression through major gift cultivation, ensuring every visitor discovers their connection to the Tiger family.

The Power of the Ring

The centerpiece ring display transforms the cherished Clemson ring into the center's most personal visitor experience. When alumni touch their ring to the scanner, they can find themselves among 136 years of Tiger graduates and sign the guest book as a permanent marker.

Fiercely Forward

A dynamic array of video towers showcase the beauty of the campus and brand messaging. Jack Porter collaborated with the university to develop a content strategy and supporting motion graphics, ensuring the displays remain relevant into the future.

Digital Discovery Hub

Three synchronized kiosks showcase real student stories about their Clemson experience, while 360-degree rotating displays allow users to fully explore donor-funded buildings.

Campus Connections

The interactive map display connects visitors to key campus destinations and the broader region.

Hidden Discoveries

Thoughtful design details reward exploration throughout the building. The iconic poem "Something in These Hills" by Joe Sherman is integrated under the main staircase.

From Rendering to Reality

The Impact

The Nieri Family Alumni and Visitor Center has transformed Clemson’s front door into a destination that authentically ties every visitor to the Tiger experience. Interactive displays and thoughtful design details ensure that whether it’s a prospective student’s first campus visit or a lifelong Tiger’s homecoming, every guest discovers their unique place in the Clemson story.