Shepherd Hotel opens in downtown Clemson.

• Position: Rick Hayduk, Rich Davies of Pavilion Development Co., South Carolina

The Shepherd Hotel has opened its doors in downtown Clemson.

The six-story white brick building, which is located between College Avenue and Sloan Street, features a restaurant called Delish Sisters and a lobby with a grand spiral staircase, according to a news release.

The hotel also includes 67 guest rooms, the Thomas Bar on the third floor, an outdoor terrace and a rooftop event space, according to the release.

The financial investment of the hotel was not disclosed.

What makes the Shepherd Hotel unique is those who work there, the release stated.

A joint vision brought to life by Rich Davies and Rick Hayduk, the Shepherd Hotel is a place that welcomes people with intellectual disabilities to their team, the release stated. More than 20% of the hotel's staff comes from ClemsonLIFE, a nationally recognized collegiate academic program Clemson University offers to young men and women with intellectual disabilities to prepare them for competitive employment and independent living.

These associates can be found welcoming guests in the hotel lobby, serving in the Delish Sisters restaurant, working in the kitchen, and maintaining guest rooms and public areas.

"We are so excited to welcome the Clemson community to the Shepherd Hotel for a truly remarkable experience," said Rick Hayduk, co-founder of Shepherd Hotels, in the release. "This is more than a luxury hotel. It is a life-changing opportunity for individuals with special abilities to train and...