Anita Zucker Gets Honorary Degree from Clemson

Submitted by Clemson University

More than 800 Clemson University students received degrees at Friday’s August graduation ceremony.

Crossing the stage at Littlejohn Coliseum to get their degrees and congratulations from President James F. Barker were 364 graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees, 384 master’s and 82 doctorates.

Philanthropist Anita Zucker, chairwoman and CEO of the InterTech Group Inc., was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humanities.  

She and her family have been strong supporters of Clemson, donating $5 million in 2012 to help build a graduate education center at the Clemson University Restoration Institute in North Charleston.

She told the graduates, “As each of you create your stories, take time to consider your values, the values that will enable you to have an impact on the world.

“As you transition into your careers, remember to look around you for opportunities to serve.”

Zucker said she was inspired in life by her mother, who spent years in a Nazi labor camp during the Holocaust, losing four siblings and her father. She said love gave her mother the strength to make it through the most difficult times.

Zucker herself relied on that inspiration when her husband, Jerry, died and she suddenly was thrust into the role as head of the international Intertech Group.

In their own lives, the graduates must face their fears head on, she said. When the opportunity presents itself, they should engage and accept responsibility for their actions.

“Life is a work of art and you are the artist and the writer,” she said. “The legacy you leave behind is up to you.”