Clemson Dedicates Building for Sonoco Institute

Accompanied by members of his family, Smith said, “We thank Clemson University for giving us the opportunity 102 years later to remain actively engaged in an industry that has seen three generations of family involvement.”

Smith made gifts and pledges of $3.7 million and Sonoco Products Co. of Hartsville gave $2.5 million for the construction of the building and to launch the packaging institute. Most of the money to pay for the $7 million structure was donated. Other donors gave equipment that will be used to train students and help industry partners research packaging methods, technology and design.