Turner Construction Company and Clemson University recently celebrated a significant milestone in the development of the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, marking a historic moment for higher education and animal health in South Carolina. A ceremonial beam signing brought together university officials, project team members, students, and stakeholders to commemorate the topping-out phase of construction—a symbolic tradition in the building industry that signals structural completion.

Slated to open for the 2026-27 academic year, the new veterinary college will be the first of its kind in South Carolina. The project represents a strategic investment in both education and public health, addressing a well-documented shortage of veterinarians in the state and throughout the southeastern United States.

“This college will not only support Clemson’s growing academic mission but also play a vital role in improving animal care and agricultural practices across rural and urban communities,” said university representatives during the ceremony.

The expansive campus, which spans over 100,000 square feet, will feature seven state-of-the-art buildings, each designed to enhance experiential learning and cutting-edge research:

• The Hub, a vibrant student center for classes, collaboration, and community building
• Ambulatory Service Building, for mobile and field-based veterinary care
• Clinical Teaching Building, to provide real-world clinical experience
• Research Building, supporting veterinary innovation and scientific discovery
• Central Utility Plant, powering the new campus sustainably
• Farm Animal Teaching Building and Equine Teaching Building, designed to support large animal education

“The College of Veterinary Medicine is a project that fills the Turner team with immense pride,” said William Hussey, Project Executive at Turner Construction Company. “We all see the profound positive impact this campus will have on Clemson's students and the communities they will serve. We are ALL IN—committed to delivering a result that both Clemson and the Turner team can be proud of and remember."

Turner Construction is coordinating with Clemson faculty and consultants to ensure that the facility meets the specific needs of modern veterinary education. The design integrates flexible lab and instructional spaces, sustainable materials, and the latest in medical technology infrastructure. It also adheres to rigorous accreditation standards required for veterinary programs.

Clemson expects the new college to boost South Carolina’s economy by supporting its agricultural, biomedical, and companion animal industries. Additionally, it aims to attract high-caliber faculty, researchers, and students from across the country.

Construction is on track for completion by late 2026, and the inaugural class of veterinary students will arrive that fall. Upon opening, the college will not only serve as a center of academic excellence but also stand as a symbol of Clemson’s commitment to service, innovation, and community well-being.

Originally reported by Turner Construction.