Pickens County Journalism Since 1999
Clemson University President Jim Clements announces retirement effective Dec. 31
Clemson University President James P. ‘Jim’ Clements publicly announced the afternoon of Tuesday, December 9, 2025 that he will be retiring effective December 31. The public announcement followed his sharing that decision with the university’s Board of Trustees.
In his announcement, Clements stated, “Serving Clemson University has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. I am deeply grateful for the trust and friendship you have shown me and my family over the years. I have been reflecting over the past several months about our accomplishments and my time here as president. 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.
“On December 31, it will be exactly 12 years since I began serving as President of Clemson. As I reminisce about my first day here, I recall the energy and excitement that a new opportunity brings. And with each year, I have always pushed myself and my team to do as much as we could to get better and achieve more every single day.
“Over the past 12 years, we have achieved incredible milestones together – from record applications and R1 status to advancing strategic plans and celebrating championship titles. These accomplishments reflect the passion and commitment of our faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters. I will treasure each of those moments – and each of you who made them possible.
“Clemson is more than a university to me – it is home. From the moment my family and I arrived, you welcomed us with warmth and generosity. That sense of community – the Clemson Family – has made this experience profoundly meaningful and one I will cherish forever.
“I am deeply grateful to the Board of Trustees for their trust and confidence, to my executive leadership team for their dedication and friendship, and to the entire Clemson community for making this University such a special place. Your energy and vision will continue to carry Clemson to even greater heights.
“To ensure a smooth and successful transition, the Board of Trustees will be announcing plans to begin the process of selecting the next president of Clemson University.
“For nearly 17 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a university president, a role that has brought me immense purpose. But there comes a time when health and family must take precedence. Clemson has been my home and passion, yet my greatest love is for my wife, Beth, and our children and grandchildren. Life moves quickly, and I don’t want to miss what truly matters – the major milestones and the quiet, everyday joys. Those are the moments I want to experience and hold close.
“As I step away from this role, I do so with optimism and a deep love for our beloved Clemson. My commitment to higher education and to Clemson’s mission remains strong, and I look forward to supporting this University in new ways and cheering for its continued success. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. It has truly been an honor of a lifetime.”
Clemson University Board of Trustees Chair Kim Wilkerson issued the following statement:
“As President Clements shared in his message to campus, he has informed the Board of Trustees of his decision to retire on December 31. For the past 12 years, he has led Clemson University with vision, energy and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His extraordinary leadership not only advanced our academic reputation but also strengthened our sense of Clemson community and pride.
“Under his guidance, Clemson achieved record enrollment and graduation rates, expanded research initiatives and secured historic philanthropic support. He championed bold strategic plans that elevated Clemson into the top ranks of public universities nationwide. His passion for student success and his ability to unite faculty, staff, alumni and friends around a shared mission have left an indelible mark on our university.
“We are deeply grateful for his servant leadership and tireless dedication. 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. His enthusiasm and drive will continue to inspire us for years to come.
“As we move forward together, Clemson is ready for this important transition. Tomorrow, Wednesday, December 10 at 2 p.m., the Board of Trustees will meet to begin shaping the next chapter of leadership for our University. During this meeting, we will address three key items:
* Appointment of Interim Leadership: I will recommend to the Board that we appoint Provost Bob Jones as Interim President, effective January 1. Though he was scheduled to retire, he has graciously agreed to serve until a successor is named.
* Presidential Search Committee: I will ask the Board to establish a committee that will immediately begin the process of selecting our next president, with the goal of having a new leader in place by the fall semester.
* Executive Search Firm: I will recommend that we engage an executive search firm to help us find Clemson’s 16th President.
“We invite you to watch tomorrow’s meeting as we honor President Clements and celebrate the remarkable achievements he has guided over the past 12 years. In the coming weeks, we will launch a dedicated website to keep you informed and engaged throughout the presidential search process.
“As we prepare for this transition, I am reminded that Clemson’s strength has always been its people. Together, we will continue building on the incredible foundation President Clements helped create. Thank you for your support and commitment as we begin this new chapter in Clemson’s story.”
Published December 9, 2025