Inaugural class signs to join TCTC Dual Enrollment Academy–Clemson Connect

Tri-County Technical College hosted a signing event on May 13  for the inaugural cohort of the TCTC Dual Enrollment Academy-Clemson Connect, a first-of-its-kind program that provides qualified high school students a guaranteed path to earn their Clemson degree.

Thirty-five students from area high schools signed their intent to participate in the academy following successful completion of a College Skills 103 class this spring.

“This first-of-its-kind academy was intentionally designed to expand access to higher education for high‑achieving students who may be the first in their families to pursue a four‑year degree,” said TCTC President Galen DeHay. “These 35 students are set to embark on an incredible academic journey, one that starts with an exceptional learning experience at Tri-County and leads to a guaranteed path to earning a bachelor’s degree at Clemson University.”

In April 2025, TCTC and Clemson University officials announced a first-of-its-kind dual enrollment academy that provides qualified high school students a guaranteed path to earn their Clemson degree. The TCTC Dual Enrollment Academy-Clemson Connect is targeted to high school students in the Anderson, Oconee and Pickens school districts whose parents did not earn a bachelor’s degree. Students are recruited in their sophomore year of high school and those admitted to the academy will take dual enrollment courses through TCTC at little to no cost.

“What makes today especially powerful is that this academy reflects true regional collaboration—Tri County, Clemson University, and our K-12 partners working together on behalf of students in Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties,” said DeHay.

Partners include Clemson University, Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties school districts, K-12 guidance counselors and TCTC faculty and staff.

“Today represents far more than a signing event. It represents access, opportunity, and a shared belief in what students can achieve when institutions work together with intention and purpose,” said Dr. Sean Brittain, associate provost and dean of undergraduate learning at Clemson University.

“At Clemson, we are deeply committed to providing high-achieving students with meaningful pathways to a bachelor’s degree, pathways that are clear, supportive, and grounded in academic excellence. This new academy embodies that commitment. It creates a bridge that begins here at Tri-County, strengthens students academically and personally, and ultimately leads them to Clemson University prepared and confident,” Brittain said.

The inaugural cohort of the TCTC Dual Enrollment Academy-Clemson Connect completed and passed their first college course, College Skills 103, this spring, said Dr. Mandy Elmore, vice president for academic affairs and workforce development at TCTC. College Skills 103 is designed to help students gain practical skills to stay organized and succeed academically.

“Students learn how to navigate campus resources and access help when needed. They also build connections with peers who are on the same journey. The goal is for students to develop a clear academic plan that lays the groundwork for long-term college and career success,” said Elmore. “By signing today, these students are saying yes to challenge, commitment, and possibility. They are setting a powerful example for their peers and communities".

Starting this fall, students will engage in coursework that aligns with their major, and they will continue this coursework through their junior and senior years at Tri-County, Elmore added. To be offered a guaranteed path to Clemson, they will have to earn a 3.0 or higher GPA in all college coursework and a 4.0 or higher in all high school coursework.