A Word from Dean Richard Goodstein – August 2014

August 8, 2014

The late Professor Leslie Williams confers with students at the 2012 Language and International Trade Conference. (Photo by Clemson Photo Services)

Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni and Friends:

As preparations for the new school year are in full gear, I am thrilled to welcome 21 new faculty to the College of Architecture, Arts and Humanities. Our new chair of the Department of Languages, Dr. Salvador Oropesa, comes to Clemson from Kansas State University. We are also excited to welcome Dr. Robert Jones as our new Provost later this month. Dr. Jones is no stranger to Clemson, having received his bachelors and masters degrees here. We have much to look forward to this coming year, and the excitement of a new school year is building.

I share with you sad news of the passing of Leslie Williams, associate professor of Japanese. Leslie was an inspirational teacher who many students thought was one of the best they’ve ever had. Leslie served as the director of our Language and International Trade program and was a trusted colleague. With Leslie’s untimely passing at the age of 48, our thoughts and prayers go to his family.

Leslie’s passing reminds me of how precious every day is and to ensure that we take time to appreciate all we have. As students and faculty begin to trickle into town in preparation for the new school year, it is our privilege to work with young people and help prepare them for the next phase of their lives. The cycle of each academic year helps renew our energy and this year I am especially grateful to have the opportunity to work with students and faculty in order to positively impact the future and enhance the life of our community, state and nation.

With best wishes from campus,

Rick

August 2014