Clemson University President James P. Clements announces retirement

Following 12 years of transformational leadership and service, Clemson University President James P. Clements has announced his decision to retire as president, effective December 31. He shared this news with the Clemson community on Tuesday, December 9 in a heartfelt letter.

“After much consideration and prayer, I have come to the conclusion that it is time for me to step aside and allow the University to begin its next chapter. I have shared with the Board of Trustees my decision to retire as President of Clemson University, effective Wednesday, December 31,” said Clements. “Serving as president of Clemson University has been one of the greatest honors of my life. After 17 years as a university president, I have reached a point where health and family must come first. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my wife, Beth, and our children and grandchildren. Clemson is more than a university to me — it is home. I am profoundly grateful to the Board of Trustees, our leadership team and the entire Clemson Family for their trust, support and friendship throughout this incredible journey.”

Board of Trustees Chair Kim Wilkerson also shared a letter with campus, expressing appreciation for President Clements’ leadership and outlining next steps.

“We are incredibly grateful for Jim’s extraordinary leadership and tireless dedication,” said Wilkerson. “President Clements has been more than a leader — he has been a mentor, a friend and an advocate for every member of the Clemson Family. While we will certainly miss his guidance and enthusiasm, we also deeply respect and understand his decision to focus on his priorities.”

The Board will meet via teleconference on Wednesday, December 10 at 2 p.m. to honor Clements’ enduring legacy and begin shaping Clemson’s next chapter including naming interim leadership, forming a Presidential Search Committee and taking steps to engage an executive search firm.