‘Evolving for our good’: Claflin expands STEM opportunities

Photo from claflin.edu

Claflin University’s STEM department is undergoing significant changes, with new faculty, expanded research facilities and enhanced academic resources aimed at improving student experiences and career readiness.

The developments reflect the university’s commitment to strengthening its STEM programs and providing students with greater opportunities for hands-on learning and professional growth.

Students have taken notice of the university’s investment in STEM, particularly through the hiring of new faculty members. By bringing in experienced professors and researchers, Claflin is ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship in their respective fields.

“I’ve seen a lot of change in the department,” said Maricellyn McDonald, a sophomore biology major. “There’s been new faculty and professors brought into the department, and there are buildings being built to expand our research capacity.

“As a biology major, it feels like the department is evolving for our good,” McDonald said. “This faculty expansion is not only increasing the breadth of expertise available to students but also fostering a more collaborative and research-driven academic environment.”

For some students, Claflin’s STEM programs are more than just an academic pursuit — they are a community where diversity and collaboration are at the heart of the learning experience.

Kendel Buchanan, a sophomore in the STEM program, emphasized the importance of the sense of community.

“Walking into my Claflin STEM classes, it’s not just about equations and experiments,” Buchanan said “It’s seeing people who look like me, with different backgrounds, all bringing something unique to the table. That’s when you realize, STEM isn’t just a subject here, it’s a community where everyone’s differences make us stronger.”

Alongside faculty expansion, Claflin has invested in new buildings and laboratory spaces designed to improve research opportunities for STEM students. These facilities are to allow for more advanced experimentation, interdisciplinary collaboration and access to cutting-edge technology.

By expanding its research capacity, the university aims to equip students with the skills necessary to excel in competitive STEM industries and graduate programs.

The development of new facilities aligns with Claflin’s broader mission to strengthen its role as a leading STEM institution among HBCUs. With an increased focus on research-driven learning, students will have more opportunities to engage in hands-on scientific discovery and innovation.