University Place

University Place is housed in the newly renovated Rainwater Building in downtown Florence, SC. University Place is an extension of Francis Marion University and is located at 142 N. Dargan Street, Florence, SC.

Steven F. Gately Gallery

Occupying the first floor of University Place, this visual art gallery hosts rotating exhibitions from a variety of artists. Named for the late Steven F. Gately, a long time art professor at Francis Marion University, the gallery is open Tuesday through Friday from Noon to 5pm.

Admission is free and open to the public, and the space is available to rent for private events.

Kelly Center for Economic Development

Francis Marion University’s Kelley Center for Economic Development has been dedicated to the economic growth of the Pee Dee Region through small business support/incubation and various regional economic development initiatives since 2016.

Occupying the entire second floor of University Place, the Kelley Center’s goal is to provide small business support initiatives and services to cultivate business growth that makes a lasting impact on economic development.

Florence County Legislative Delegation Office

Located on the third floor of University Place, the office will serve Florence County residents living in the nine districts represented in the South Carolina State Legislature. The office is staffed by an administrator who can assist all delegation members and their Florence County constituents on state-related matters.

For assistance or additional information, call 843-661-4662.

North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA)

NESA is a regional, non-profit, economic development organization that serves nine counties in the northeastern corner of South Carolina.

With offices located on the third floor of University Place, the group’s primary objective is to create jobs for the residents of the region by working within the existing industry base and recruiting new companies.