Clemson University President James Clements (Photo courtesy of Clemson University)
Clemson University President Jim Clements is retiring after a dozen years at the helm of the Upstate college.
Clements’ last day will be Dec. 31. The college’s governing board is expected to appoint Provost Bob Jones as interim president as it searches for a new leader.
“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,” Clements wrote in a letter that went out to students and employees Tuesday. “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.”
Clements’ retirement comes a year after the board approved him for a contract extension through 2031. He is 61 years old.
As president, Clements’ total compensation is $1.5 million.
Before Clemson hired Clements, he spent about five years as president of West Virginia University. Now, with 17 years of university leadership on his resume, Clements said he is ready to spend more time with family.
“There comes a time when health and family must take precedence,” Clements said. “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.”
In his letter, Clements touted university accomplishments, including Clemson’s designation as a top-tier research university, setting records for the number of applications submitted by prospective students hoping to gain admittance and football championships.
“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,” board chairwoman Kim Wilkerson said in a statement. “While we will certainly miss his guidance and enthusiasm, we also deeply respect and understand his decision to focus on his priorities.”
Wilkerson said the board plans to start the search process immediately and she hopes the board can select the college’s 16th president in time for the fall 2026 semester.
