Clemson student with Down syndrome joins fraternity in sweet video

When Charlie McGee was a sophomore in high school, he toured Clemson University in South Carolina with his parents.

“There was an interview, and Charlie’s first question was about fraternities on campus,” says Charlie’s mom, Alana McGee. TODAY.com.

This is not an unusual question, but Charlie has Down syndrome. There were several Clemson students with intellectual disabilities participating in Greek life at the time, but none went through the formal emergency process. Charlie wanted the full experience.

“Charlie has two older brothers and he has always followed in their footsteps,” says Alana. “They were both in college and in a fraternity, so he expected the same.”

And he does just that.

In September, after a rush, also known as recruiting, 21-year-old Charlie accepted an offer at his first choice: Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE). In total, Charlie, a junior from Clemson, received applications from four fraternities.

“Charlie is very popular,” says PIKE Treasurer Zach Freeman. “We were worried. We thought, “This child will not choose us.”

Charlie McGee and Zach Freeman hugged on trading day. Courtesy of Zach Freeman

The joyful video of Charlie accepting an offer from PIKE was recently featured on TODAY Channel’s Morning Boost and went viral, racking up millions of views on social media.

“I was so excited,” Charlie tells TODAY.com, noting that he was drawn to PIKE because “they do great things.”

“I wanted to be a part of it,” he adds.

Charlie McGee posed for photos with his fraternity brothers, including PIKE Treasurer Zach Freeman (in orange shirt). — Charlie McGee posed for a photo with his fraternity brothers, including PIKE Treasurer Zach Freeman (in orange shirt).Courtesy of Zach Freeman

Charlie is a student in the ClemsonLife program.which prepares people with intellectual disabilities to gain employment and live independently. This is one of over 265 higher education opportunities throughout the United States for students with Down syndrome, autism, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Although Charlie cannot attend Greek events where alcohol is served (a ClemsonLife rule), he participates in a wide range of activities, including weekly Bible studies, parents’ weekend, and building a homecoming float.

“I enjoy watching sports with my brothers, hanging out with them and making connections,” shares Charlie.

Freeman describes Charlie as a “star”.

“Charlie brings light to our chapter,” Freeman, 21, said. “He is very knowledgeable in all areas of football and life in general. He brought happiness that we didn’t even know we had.”

According to Freeman, Pi Kappa Alpha is built on the so-called four pillars of the Pike: scholars, leaders, athletes and gentlemen.

“Charlie embodies that to a T,” Freeman says.

Charlie McGee poses with his fraternity brothers. Courtesy of Zach Freeman

Erica Walters, ClemsonLife program manager, says inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities is a win for everyone.

“I think a lot of times people think, ‘Oh, we’re going to do them a favor and let them join us.’ And then they inevitably say, “Wow, this young man is changing my life,” Walters tells TODAY.

“These kids will graduate and have jobs,” she continues. “And they might not hesitate to hire someone with a disability because they have experience working with students in our organization.”

In addition to school and social responsibilities, Charlie works two days a week supporting cats and dogs at Clemson Paw Partners, a spay and neuter clinic. He is also taking the Animal and Veterinary Science Orientation course.

“I love animals,” says Charlie.

National Down Syndrome Society President and CEO Kandi Pickard hopes Charlie’s story will inspire more colleges and universities to expand their inclusion initiatives.

“Charlie’s journey with his Clemson fraternity is a powerful reminder that embracing diversity enriches our communities and creates a space where everyone belongs,” Pickard tells TODAY. “Inclusion should be the norm, not the exception. Together we can make belonging a reality for everyone.”