Clemson University Helps Rock Sound to Envision A Sustainability-Based Future

For many years, Clemson University has been a valued partner in leading innovative, sustainability-focused, student-led projects on Eleuthera. Projects range from sustainable master planning for key community-facing areas, such as our CTI campus, to the revitalization of the Tarpum Bay waterfront and the reimagining of the historic Rock Sound settlement, as well as the exploration and research of sustainable tourism and early childhood education concepts. This collaborative education partnership exemplifies the power of creativity and forward-thinking in action.

This year, in March the partnership had another inspiring development. In March, Dr. Jill Shellnut led a group of eight undergraduate students and one faculty member on a spring study abroad program focused on early education. During their week-long visit, students spent time at schools from South to North Eleuthera, including Emma Cooper Primary in Palmetto Point, Tarpum Bay Primary, and the Harbour Island Green School. The group participated in classroom instruction, shared teaching techniques, and built connections with students and teachers. These immersive experiences were mutually enriching, offering Clemson students a first-hand look at the unique educational landscape in The Bahamas, while providing a space to explore different approaches and perspectives with the Bahamian faculty.

Two months later, in May, for the third consecutive year, Dr. Hala Nassar, Professor of Landscape Architecture, joined by Dr. Matt Brownlee, Associate Department Chair and Associate Professor of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson University, facilitated thirteen undergraduate students on a twelve-day study abroad trip, here on Eleuthera. Over the past three years, Dr. Nassar has been a leading force in guiding our local communities in envisioning a sustainability-focused development model through the powerful lens of Landscape Architecture and the creative minds of her students.

This year, Dr. Nassar’s students focused on the redevelopment of Eleuthera’s historic Rock Sound settlement. The students spent the entire fall semester working on concepts and designs that address current community needs, while also building long-term capacity on the island in sustainable development and resource management. The students presented their innovative ideas and design concepts to the community with a 2-day visual showcase hosted at the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce.

Landscape architecture is a powerful and multidisciplinary field that shapes the physical environment in ways that are both functional and beautiful. It focuses on the design, planning, and management of land to create meaningful outdoor spaces ranging from urban parks and streetscapes to green infrastructure and natural habitats. At its core, landscape architecture bridges the built and natural worlds, addressing the complex interactions between people, place, and ecology.

One of the most critical impacts of Landscape Architecture lies in its role in promoting sustainable development. Among other things, Landscape Architects use principles of ecological design to manage stormwater, reduce urban heat, restore native biodiversity, sequester carbon through green spaces, and improve aesthetic qualities. Through innovations like green roofs, permeable pavements, and living shorelines, they help cities adapt to climate challenges while preserving natural resources. Moreover, the discipline fosters resilient communities by planning for natural disaster mitigation and ensuring equitable access to green spaces for mental and physical well-being.

OEF is proud to partner with and co-pioneer initiatives like these, which offer a glimpse into what cross-border cooperation can look like. Working together, we can begin to understand the true interconnectedness of our global challenges and model what responsible, global citizenship and collaboration can look like. When we center people, culture, and shared learning, we don’t just build projects—we build bridges to a better future. These exchanges highlight the value of diversity in education and underscore the belief that learning transcends borders.