Clemson president to address alma mater, receive honorary degree
May 17, 2016
Clemson University President James P. Clements, a three-time alumnus of University of Maryland – Baltimore County (UMBC), joins Harvard University President Drew Gilpin Faust as guest speakers for the Maryland school’s 2016 commencement ceremonies this week. The two presidents also will receive honorary degrees.
Clements will receive an honorary Doctor of Education degree and speak at the graduate school commencement ceremony. He earned a bachelor degree in computer science in 1985 and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in operations analysis in 1991 and 1993, respectively.UMBC is a member of the University of Maryland system and accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. It is a public research university with an enrollment of approximately 14,000 graduate and undergraduate students.
“I’m so pleased and honored to return to my alma mater to address the graduate students of the university that has significant personal meaning in my life.” Clements said. “I stood in their place not so very long ago, and I’m anxious to see how they will make a difference with the education they have received. UMBC is one of the most innovative universities in the country and highly regarded. A degree from this prestigious university will help open many doors for these new graduates.”
Clements is the 15th president of Clemson University and a nationally recognized leader in higher education. Under his leadership, Clemson has reached several key milestones, including a record number of student applications and a record-breaking year in private fundraising.
Faust, the 28th president of Harvard, will speak at the undergraduate commencement ceremony and receive and honorary doctorate of public service.
