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Claflin opens affordable housing for faculty, staff

Christina Lee Knauss //August 9, 2022//

Claflin opens affordable housing for faculty, staff

Christina Lee Knauss //August 9, 2022//

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Claflin University in Orangeburg has opened new affordable housing for its faculty and staff members.

Claflin University in Orangeburg recently opened new affordable housing for faculty and staff. (Photo/provided)

The block of nine two-story townhomes, known as The Villas at Claflin, is across from the main campus at 2005 Magnolia St. and officially opened on Aug. 6.

Dwaun J. Warmack, president of Claflin, said the new units are part of an ongoing cycle of positive growth at the university.

“We purchased these townhouses so that we could provide affordable and quality housing for our faculty and staff,” Warmack said in a statement. “The townhouses are completely renovated and include brand-new stainless-steel appliances. We completed this project debt-free.”

Each unit has been completely renovated and includes two bedrooms, one full and one half bathroom, a microwave, refrigerator, oven and washer/dryer. Monthly rent is $850 and includes free internet and a security alarm.

The renovation project started in November 2021 and was completed in July.

Warmack said Claflin is in the midst of building a new student center, but officials realized they also had to focus on providing something for faculty and staff.

“We are recruiting outstanding faculty and staff from all over the world, and when they take jobs at Claflin, we want them to live in Orangeburg and keep those tax dollars in Orangeburg,” he said.

Claflin has also recently acquired the Kress Building in downtown Orangeburg with plans to offer loft apartments for faculty and staff when that project is completed.

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