Home Care In Clemson, SC

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CLEMSON, S.C. —

Clemson University's Board of Trustees has selected Provost Bob Jones as interim president after President James P. Clements announced his retirement.

Clements will conclude his tenure and retire from the presidency on Dec. 31.

Officials said Jones will fill the role as interim president starting Jan. 1. Jones is not affiliated with Bob Jones University. This was approved in a unanimous vote by the board on Wednesday afternoon.

"With more than a decade of experience as provost, Bob’s leadership and deep knowledge of Clemson will provide stability during this period," Chair Kim Wilkerson said.

Jones is a two-time Clemson graduate with more than a decade of leadership service as provost at the university. His full bio can be read here.

The Board also approved the formation of a Presidential Search Committee and the selection of an executive search firm to help find Clemson’s 16th president.

This will include the input of organizations, students, faculty, research groups, and stakeholders at the university.

The university's goal is to have a new leader in place by Fall 2026. Officials plan to create a website to update the public on the ongoing search.

As students pack study halls to finish final exams and grow eager for the holiday break, many were shocked by the change in leadership and are curious about what comes next for the university.

"A lot of people are really surprised because there's a, there's a huge amount of respect for him. He came and spoke to us earlier this year and talked a lot about the future," Freshman and Student Government Senator Sawyer Werab said. "I think Jones was supposed to be retiring at the end this year. I think it's real admirable of the guy to stick around and step up in that position while it's empty.”

“Look for the person is going to look out for the students first. I believe that's, you know, probably been done in the past few years. Was keeping that forefront of their mind," Junior Marshall Dunn said.

Dunn's friend, Tyrus Shurtz, agreed.

"Someone that cares a lot about Clemson, whether they have a history with us or not. That is going to put us first," Shurtz said.

A typical tenure is three to five years, according to Wilkerson. Both Clements and previous President James Barker have served enough time in the role to equal a quarter of a century.

Following the decision, Clements reflected on his time at the university and shared bittersweet sentiments with his colleagues.

"My journey began here on December 31st, 2013, and will conclude on the same day, exactly 12 years later. Clemson is more than a university to me. I know you know how much I love this place. It's our home, and Beth and I will remain here because our hearts are here. Serving as President of Clemson University truly has been one of the greatest honors of my entire life," Clements said.

Clemson University confirmed on Thursday that Clements would be staying on as a faculty member.

The Board released the following statement in honor of Clements:

"When Jim became our 15th president 12 years ago, he brought a bold strategic vision and an unwavering belief in what Clemson could achieve. Under his leadership, we have reached heights that once seemed unimaginable – record enrollment, historic fundraising, national recognition for academic excellence and transformative growth across our campuses. Jim’s ability to lead with grace, strength and a deep love for this University has left an indelible mark on Clemson history."

Wilkerson said, "Though we will miss Jim’s leadership dearly, Clemson stands in one of its strongest positions ever."

Clemson’s Board of Trustees met on Wednesday, December 10 to approve the appointment of an interim president, establish the presidential search committee and the hiring of a national search firm.

As the Board formalized next steps in the process to identify Clemson’s 16th president, Board Chair Kim Wilkerson also recognized and celebrated the retirement of President Jim Clements following 12 years of exemplary service.

Clements addressed the Board and shared his appreciation for their support and the support of the entire Clemson community during his tenure. He also reiterated his plans to remain in the Clemson area and return to a faculty position at the University following a sabbatical.

“Serving as president of Clemson University has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Clements. “Over these 12 years, we have accomplished so much together, and I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved as a Clemson Family united by purpose and passion. I find it symbolic that my journey began here on December 31, 2013, and will conclude on the same day, exactly 12 years later. Numbers tell a story, and this one speaks of an incredible chapter filled with progress, resilience and the pursuit of excellence.”

To honor the legacy of President Clements, Beth and their family, please consider donating to two student support programs that hold a special place in their hearts: the Clements Family Lyceum Scholars Endowment or the Clements Family Endowment for ClemsonLIFE. Click here to give.

The Board approved three action items during the meeting. First, they approved the appointment of Robert H. (Bob) Jones as interim president effective January 1. Currently serving as Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Jones has agreed to serve as Interim President during the transition.

The Board also established a presidential search committee and subsequently authorized the committee to begin the process of hiring a search firm to assist in the process.

The Board has committed to communicate with Clemson students, faculty, staff, alumni and the public throughout the process, and has set a goal of having a new leader in place by Fall 2026.

ABOUT ROBERT H. (BOB) JONES

Bob Jones became the University’s first Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost in September 2014. During his 10 years leading Academic Affairs, Clemson’s academic reputation continued its meteoric rise. The University grew in nearly every academic success metric including enrollment, average SAT and ACT scores, retention rates, graduation rates, research funding and expenditures and more. Provost Jones saw the reorganization of colleges, the creation of new colleges and programs and the establishment of South Carolina’s only College of Veterinary Medicine.

A two-time Clemson graduate, Jones earned a Bachelor of Science in forest management in 1979 and a Master of Science in forestry in 1981. He completed his doctorate in forest ecology from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse University in 1986. Before returning to Clemson, Jones served as dean of the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University and as department head and professor of biological sciences at Virginia Tech.

You don't have to be from South Carolina to know the unbridled enthusiasm that consumes the Clemson club. Any Georgian or Alabamian has lost at least one of their own to the renowned public institution after high school, and those kids have been bleeding orange ever since. Out-of-staters don't mind, typically. Who cares? The Gamecocks. The state rivalry between the two colleges is legendary, but we're not here to dive into the intricacies of the Palmetto Bowl.

Collegiate football aside, Clemson, South Carolina, is just a small mountain town nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills. Sure, it's home to the Clemson University Tigers and Death Valley, but there also happens to be plenty of other cool things worth checking out while you're there.

Here are the best things to do on your visit to Clemson, South Carolina.

Walk Around The Picturesque Campus Grounds

Regularly named one of the prettiest college towns in the South, Clemson makes the most of its generous placement on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and right up against the shores of Lake Hartwell. The campus is set on 17,000 acres (with plenty of green space) and is located only a mile from the main town district, making it perfect for those who love to have an afternoon walk or spend time outdoors. The grounds are synonymous with the scenery of the town, and you'll also find outdoor pastimes to explore. Favorite local activities include kayaking on Lake Hartwell or exploring the trails that lie along the Blue Ridge Parkway about two hours north of town.

Visit The Iconic Esso Club

People have been watching games and having fun at this dive bar for decades, making it one of the most legendary spots in town. At Esso Club, you'll find memorabilia on the walls and diehard alums lined up at the bar. Hit it early on game days for its signature "Build Your Own" Bloody Mary bar.

Enjoy The Shade Of The Centennial Oak

Sit back and relax for a spell underneath the wide shadow of this century-old oak tree, the largest bur oak in the state of South Carolina. The landmark is a beloved meeting place and must-see stop.

Attend The Clemson Festival Of Arts Aach Spring

Every spring, Clemson's arts culture is on full display at the annual Clemson Festival of Arts, which is held around downtown Clemson in late May. The free-admission event makes a great outing to view and participate in art-making projects, listen to musicians, enjoy local vendors, and find a new piece of artwork to take home.

Try Clemson's Cult-Fave Blue Cheese

They had us at, "cheese research project." A venture first started in the 1940s, Clemson's blue cheese is an artisanal cheese made the old-fashioned way—in 288-gallon vats that each produce batches of about 240 pounds of blue cheese, which is then salted, waxed, aged for six months, and packaged by hand. And it's good, y'all. You can find it at the '55 Exchange on campus. Make sure to rack up a batch to take home in the cooler. They even ship.

Pay A Visit To The South Carolina Botanical Garden

This 230-acre sanctuary really sings in the springtime. What began as a humble camellia garden in the 1950s has become an outdoor gardener's paradise. You'll find garden expeditions, pruning classes, lunch-and-learn meetings, and more on the docket.

The South Carolina Botanical Garden hosts semi-annual plant sales each year, in April and either September or October. The spring 2026 sale will be held on April 10, 11, and 25.

Visit The Student-Run '55 Exchange

We all scream for...ice cream! Speaking of '55 Exchange, this student-run business makes, serves, and sells Clemson's beloved ice cream (and milkshakes), as well as other in-house Clemson products like the famous blue cheese. The ice-cream tradition has been going strong since the 1920s.

Make A Stop At Judge Keller's Store

This three-generation institution has been around for over 100 years, and you'll find it has come a long way since its humble beginnings carrying cadet uniforms to now selling bright-orange school apparel.

Take A Detour To Sassafras Mountain

This is a popular weekend destination for Clemson students and locals to take advantage of the surrounding mountain landscape. Sassafras Mountain is home to the highest point in the state of South Carolina, and it offers a rare glimpse at the cotton-candy sunsets that fall over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Make it a quick detour on your way in or out of town, and you won't be sorry.

Grab A Bagel At Pot Belly Deli

There hasn't been a breakfast craving or raging hangover that couldn't be cured with a bagel sandwich from Pot Belly Deli, a town favorite of students and locals alike. Safe to say, this casual spot feeds its fair share of fans on a game day morning. Ask for the Taylor H-E-C.

Catch The Town Covered In Clemson Orange Every Friday

If there's one thing Clemson students, faculty members, and alums all know, it's that Fridays are about going "Solid Orange." Every week, you'll catch the whole town teeming with folks decked out in Clemson orange—like, all the way decked out. It takes loyal fandom to a whole new level.

Book A Room At The Inn At Patrick Square

Embarking on all of these adventures requires at least a night's stay. For that, visit one of Southern Living Hotel Collection members, The Inn at Patrick Square. With historic charm and a walkable location, you'll be well-taken-care-of.

Get Dressed Up For A Night Out

Head to Pixie & Bills for fine dining in a cozy and romantic dining room with a fireplace. Specialities include lobster bisque, prime rib, and Grand Marnier crepes for dessert.

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.