Early last month, Clemson University unveiled plans for the new Harris A. Smith Building to house the planned Sonoco Institute for Packaging Design and Graphics. Named for the donor of a $10 million investment in the future of Clemson’s Packaging Science and Graphic Communications programs, the Sonoco Institute will provide a new focus on innovation in the next generation of packaging, encompassing all of its inherent functions.

Following the groundbreaking, participants attended a VIP luncheon where they were addressed by Harris Smith and by Chip Tonkin, newly named director of the Sonoco Institute. University Provost Doris Helms; Dr. Sam Ingram, head of graphic communications; and Dr. Bob Kimmel, head of packaging science; also presented greetings and appreciation.

In addition, the two departments hosted personal tours of teaching and research facilities. Faculty and guests also learned about plans for a second building to house the two departments in close proximity to the Harris A. Smith Building.