You re joining one of the boldest and most successful educational partnerships in the world. The Clemson Extension Service has a proud history in South Carolina dating back to 1914 when the Cooperative Extension Service came into being through the federal Smith-Lever Act. Obviously, knowledge and methods have changed in nearly a century, but Extension s dedication to the people of South Carolina is as dynamic and alive as ever. The purpose of the Clemson Extension Service is to create learning partnerships that help adults and youth enhance their lives and communities. This short sentence says much.
Extension is a grassroots organization that serves local needs.
Notice the purpose doesn t specifically say agriculture or families or youth. Though our efforts especially emphasize some areas, we carry out interdisciplinary programs to meet local needs. Our vision is to be an informal educator and information source of choice for South Carolinians with needs related to our mission. The South Carolinians with whom we work will always be our highest priority. Achievement of our goals will result primarily from our own capabilities and enthusiasm for the task.