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."
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