Clemson University trustees name interim president to replace Clements Greenville News Dec. 10, 2025, 4:51 p.m. ET
Clemson University President Jim Clements will retire on December 31 after 12 years of service. Provost Bob Jones will postpone his own retirement to serve as the university's interim president. The Board of Trustees has formed a committee to conduct a national search for a permanent successor. The university aims to have a new permanent president in place by the fall of 2026. Clemson University has named an interim president to replace Jim Clements, who announced his retirement as president on Dec. 9.
At a meeting on Dec. 10, the university's board of trustees named Bob Jones, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, the interim president. The trustees also approved a presidential search committee and hiring an outside firm to conduct a national search for Clements' permanent successor.
Jones, who was initially set to retire at the end of December, agreed to postpone his retirement to serve as interim president starting Jan. 1.
Bob Jones, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, recognizes the deans of colleges during Clemson University commencement ceremonies in Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson Friday, May 10, 2019. After serving for 12 years, Clement's last day as Clemson University’s president will be on Dec. 31.
During the trustee meeting board chair Kim Wilkerson recognized Clements' retirement.
“Though we will miss Jim’s leadership dearly, Wilkerson said, "Clemson stands in one of its strongest positions ever. His legacy will serve as a foundation for the next chapter in our story, a chapter we will write together with confidence and optimism.”
In a letter to the university, Clements expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Clemson University.
“Serving as president of Clemson University has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Clements. "I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved as a Clemson Family united by purpose and passion.
"Numbers tell a story, said Clements. This one speaks of an incredible chapter filled with progress, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.”
He applauded Jones' appointment.
“Bob Jones is an amazing and brilliant scholar and leader, and his contributions to Clemson are numerous,” said Clements.
The trustees set a goal of having a new leader in place by fall 2026.
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