Clinton, South Carolina: Presbyterian College Unites After Hurricane Helene
The sun was shining in Clinton on October 18, 2024, with a pleasant high of 69F, but that wasn’t always the case. Just weeks earlier, Hurricane Helene had swept through the southeast on September 27, leaving a wake of destruction in its path, including significant damage to Presbyterian College (PC). However, as students returned to campus after fall break on October 9, they found not just a changed landscape but a renewed spirit of community and resilience.
Assessing the Aftermath
It was a tough sight upon their return: several of the college’s majestic oak trees had been uprooted, buildings had sustained damage, and some offices had to temporarily relocate. But the true heart of PC, known as the PC Spirit, had not been diminished. President Dr. Anita Gustafson communicated with students, faculty, and staff during this turbulent time, noting, “Over the past 13 days, I have witnessed what it means to be ‘True Blue’ from the dedication of so many on our campus who worked countless hours to get campus ready for us to begin classes today.”
Gustafson described the immediate response team that was formed when the storm struck. “We quickly addressed the safety of our students and the immediate needs of the campus,” she shared. Communication was a challenge in the chaos, with technology compromised; the team had to physically locate each other and set in-person meeting times. The phrase ‘PC Pivot’ emerged as they adapted to changing circumstances.
Ensuring Student Safety
One of the foremost concerns during the storm was the safety of students still on campus, including athletes who stayed behind. Dean of Student Affairs Drew Peterson took action by moving into Clinton Hall, ensuring that he and his team, along with campus security led by Chief Tony Eigner, could provide continuous support. They worked tirelessly alongside student affairs staff, who took the initiative to clear out refrigerators in dorms that had lost power. Meanwhile, the Springs Campus Center was opened to create a warm communal space during the recovery.
Keeping the Meals Coming
Thanks to the dedication of Director of Auxiliary Services Jason Koenig and AVI General Manager Kirtley Baez, no students went without food. They ensured that meals were served hot and ready, which is no small feat during such emergencies! Koenig and his team also helped revive the college’s mailroom, getting things back on track as soon as they could.
Restoration Efforts
Restoring campus facilities was no easy task. Facilities Services Director Trent Roark and his crew worked day and night, dealing with fallen trees and power outages. The damage to the Provost’s Office in the Smith Administration Building needed immediate attention. Even employees from Budd Group stepped in to assist, clearing debris and making the campus safe once more.
An Impressive Student Response
One of the most moving aspects of the recovery effort was the incredible reaction from the students themselves. Living out PC’s motto, “While We Live, We Serve,” over 200 students volunteered to assist the local community in the storm’s aftermath. Mobilizing through the Chaplain’s Office, these students lent their hands to help clean up at nearby parks and homes, as well as assisting in relocating the damaged Provost’s Office.
This demonstration of community spirit illustrated that while the storm may have left destruction in its wake, it also sparked a united initiative to help those in need. Individual students even organized supply drives to extend their impact, not only within the campus but beyond the borders of Laurens County.
A True Blue Moment
As the dust settled and students resumed their academic life, the college community rallied around what President Gustafson aptly characterized as a “True Blue” moment for Presbyterian College. The challenges faced have not defined them, rather, they have offered a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity, resilience, and an unwavering spirit of service.
