Yesterday afternoon key members of my executive leadership team and I had the opportunity to meet with a group of Clemson family members who have spent the past week camped outside of Sikes Hall for an issue that’s deeply important to all of us. The Clemson Family is very passionate about this issue and I can relate to that, it’s something I’ve worked on for more than 25 years and it goes to the core of who we are as an institution. This is the issue of how we continue to make our university community a place that is welcoming, safe and supportive for all who choose to study or work here.
The conversation was thoughtful, honest and candid and I believe that progress was made. The issue of diversity on campus is not a new one for Clemson and the conversations we’ve had over the past few days are an important part of our continued progress. We will be hosting three forums this week and hope that anyone who is interested in these issues will come and be a part of these discussions. I’m confident that all of us together can continue to make progress and drive these important ongoing and new initiatives forward.
Action Forums:
TONIGHT: Tuesday, April 19th 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
McKissick Theatre in The Hendrix Student Center
Topics: Campus climate, safety and multicultural center.
Wednesday, April 20th 10:00 am – Noon
The President’s Commission on The Status of Black Faculty and Staff
Hendrix Center – Room B
Topics: Issues that affect workforce diversity. Recruiting and retention of underrepresented faculty and staff.
Wednesday, April 20th 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Brackett Hall Auditorium
Topics: Support of underrepresented students.
James P. Clements, Ph.D.
President
Clemson University
201 Sikes Hall
Clemson, SC 29634
(864) 656-3413
