The B-Note Blog

Greetings, fellow Tigers!

Today, the College of Science held a wonderful virtual event, a panel of female leaders in math and science hosted by Dean Cynthia Y. Young, Ph.D. During this event, Celebrating Clemson’s Trailblazers: Female Leaders in Math and Science, the College had a very special announcement: Emily Wallace, a panelist and Clemson alumna, has made a gift of $1.25 million to establish the Emily Peek Wallace ’72 Endowed Directorship for the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences.

Ever since she arrived at Clemson University in the fall of 1968, Emily has been a trailblazer. She was the first woman to serve as a top leader of the University’s WSBF radio station and was named to Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Although times are much different now, she was often the sole woman — or one of only two — in her technical courses.

Since graduating with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics, Emily — a first generation college graduate — has generously given back to the University. Emily serves on the Clemson University Foundation Board of Directors and as a founding member of the Order of the Oak. Not only does Emily support Clemson through donations and service on boards, but also as a mentor and presenter to students in the classroom.

Endowed faculty positions allow Clemson to retain top talent. This endowed faculty position – the first for the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences in the College of Science – provides support for the school director and enables initiatives throughout the school.

The purpose of this endowment focuses on increasing student engagement and success as well as enhancing the relevance of the curriculum as the School prepares the next generation of leading mathematicians, statisticians and data scientists for both research and business application tracks.

The support includes tutoring assistance for students who may be struggling academically or to help students who may have fallen behind due to unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, it aims to help establish business connections and internships for students who wish to enter the job force instead of going into academic research, and it makes training with current statistical software and other resources available for students regardless of their future tracks.

You can read more about Emily’s gift to the College of Science here and watch Emily Wallace’s gift announcement as well as hear from a panel of several other outstanding Clemson women in math and science here.

Thank you, Emily, for your dedication to Clemson and for continuing to blaze the trail for women in math and science. Your support is making a difference in the lives of Clemson students today, tomorrow and forever. And for that, the Clemson Family is forever grateful!

B – There for Your Fellow Tigers!
We are less than one week away from the end of this fiscal year. Let’s continue to join together in support of our fellow Tigers and finish the year strong!

Among our goals for the year is reaching 20 percent in alumni participation, but we need the support of our Clemson Family. You can make your gift and encourage other alumni to do the same! Visit https://iamatiger.clemson.edu/giving, call 864 656-5896 or mail your gift to Annual Giving Office, PO Box 1889, Clemson, SC 29633.

Thank you for supporting Clemson – today, tomorrow and forever!

Go Tigers!

Brian O’Rourke

Wow, Tigers!

I am absolutely blown away and filled with immense gratitude for our Clemson Family. In a celebration of the power of your generosity, Tigers came together for our sixth annual Give Day in a remarkable way yesterday, and I am thrilled to announce to you that 2,088 alumni and friends raised $1,772,848. The generosity and commitment you have for Clemson will forever amaze me. Every gift made during Give Day help us move Clemson forward toward a brighter future.

We were thrilled to be able to set up several socially-distanced areas around campus for our students to participate in this special day – and to begin their own tradition of giving back to Clemson. Throughout the day, Bubba Britton of the Clemson Alumni Association welcomed special guests on Facebook Live to discuss Give Day and the impact our gifts have on Clemson and our students. I was excited to kick off the day with Bubba to talk about what Give Day is and its importance for Clemson. If you missed them yesterday, I encourage you to go to the Clemson University Alumni Association Facebook page and watch the interviews.

Your gifts will create transformative opportunities for Tigers everywhere, funding scholarships and initiatives that would not exist without your thoughtful generosity. The past year was marked with great change and even greater challenges, but yesterday proved that the Clemson Family is capable of overcoming anything when we come together. I am forever grateful for your commitment and dedication to supporting our fellow Tigers, and I want to personally thank each of you for yet again demonstrating your pride and loyalty to our University. We are building something great for tomorrow – together.

Thank you, and Go Tigers!

Brian O’Rourke

Greetings, fellow Tigers!

The day is almost here! In less than one week, the Clemson Family will join together to celebrate the power of your generosity through our annual Give Day. Mark your calendars, and join your fellow Tigers by making a gift that will fund scholarships and initiatives that would not exist otherwise. And beyond all else, support our students – today, tomorrow and forever. You can make your gift today and be one of the first supporters of Give Day 2021.

When we all give, we create transformative opportunities for Tigers everywhere – whether it’s a passionate student who dreams of one day being a Clemson Tiger but faces financial obstacles, a class valedictorian who is deciding where to take their academic prowess or a graduate fellow who longs to use their studies to create a difference in the lives of others.

The past year has been extraordinarily challenging, and I am forever grateful for your commitment and dedication to supporting our fellow Tigers. Your gifts are making our future achievements possible, and together, we will move Clemson forward.

Go Tigers!

Brian O’Rourke

Greetings, fellow Tigers!

 It is with great pride and appreciation that I share some wonderful philanthropic news with you. Stuart McWhorter ’91 and Leigh Anne Hendrix McWhorter, of Nashville, Tenn., have pledged a Cornerstone Partner Gift of $2.5 million to IPTAY and Clemson Athletics. Because of their strong sense of dedication and commitment to the future of athletics at Clemson University, they are supporting the softball program, and in recognition of their outstanding generosity, the softball stadium will be named in their honor.

After years of planning, the softball program played its inaugural season in 2020, joining Clemson’s elite sports programs. This impactful gift from the McWhorter family ensures Clemson’s softball program will maintain its strong momentum with a level of success that matches the University’s other winning programs and competitors in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

“My father taught me the meaning of giving back and paying it forward at an early age. As a result of my experience as a student and today as an alumnus, I want to meaningfully continue my support. Leigh Anne and I are thrilled to support Clemson and in particular, Clemson softball,” says Stuart.

Leigh Anne added, “This is the opportunity to give these young women the chance to participate in the sport and grow from lessons they learn far beyond the field of play. We have three daughters, and my hope is that they too will have the same opportunities, whether that’s through sports or other life experiences.”

In its first season, the softball program averaged 1,544 fans per game, ranking first in the ACC and fifth nationally. The Tigers finished 19-8 and 5-1 in ACC play in the abbreviated 2020 season.

Stuart was the official Clemson Tiger mascot while a student from 1987 to 1990. This, along with a passion and strong desire to give back, inspired Stuart and Leigh Anne to previously support the Tiger Pride Campaign by funding the bronze Tiger located at Gate 1 of Memorial Stadium.

They have also given generously throughout the years to initiatives across IPTAY and academics, including making the first pledge in support of the Entrepreneurial Leadership Enhancement Fund.

Stuart and Leigh Anne are distinguished members of Clemson’s Cumulative Giving Society and the President’s Leadership Circle. Stuart was a founding member of the Leadership Committee for Clemson University’s 10-year capital campaign, The Will to Lead, and he served on the Athletics Tiger Pride Capital Campaign Cabinet.

Stuart was previously a member of the Clemson University Foundation Board, and he and Leigh Anne are members of the Founder Society for the Arthur M. Spiro Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership.

Stuart received a Bachelor of Science in management from Clemson and a master’s in health administration from The University of Alabama-Birmingham. Stuart and Leigh Anne live in Nashville, Tenn. with their five children: Clayton, a freshman at Clemson, Thomas, Caroline, Marleigh and Layla.

Stuart, a 1991 Clemson graduate with an entrepreneurial spirit, is the co-founder and chairman at Clayton Associates, a venture investment firm, with more than 25 years of experience in entrepreneurship and early-stage investing. He recently served as the commissioner for the Department of Finance and Administration under Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and then as director of Tennessee’s COVID-19 Unified Command Group before returning to Clayton Associates in 2021.

Stuart has served as an Executive-in-Residence at Clemson, focusing on the University’s entrepreneurship and economic engagement efforts and has taught healthcare, finance and entrepreneurship as an adjunct professor at Belmont University.

Leigh Anne pursued a Bachelor of Science in human learning and behavior from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 1993 and then worked for several pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in sales, including GlaxoSmithKline. Leigh Anne is the mother of five and active in the Nashville non-profit community, devoting her time particularly to child welfare and adoption.

The McWhorter family continues to demonstrate a deep commitment to Clemson by giving generously of their time, talent and treasure. Clemson’s softball program is preparing for its second season, and Stuart and Leigh Anne’s extraordinary generosity provides Clemson softball with the strong foundation needed to become an elite Clemson program. McWhorter Stadium will be the centerpiece of the softball program’s future.

“We are so grateful to Stuart, Leigh Anne and their entire family for their generous commitment to Clemson Athletics and the softball program,” said President Clements. “We are excited about the direction of the program and are thankful to the McWhorters for becoming Cornerstone Partners and being such a significant part of the foundation of softball at Clemson.”

With this gift, the McWhorter family becomes the 18^th member of the Cornerstone Partner program in Athletics, joining a special group of donors who have pledged a minimum of $2.5 million to propel Clemson forward in the University’s quest to educate and prepare student-athletes who will compete and win at the highest levels.

B – Inspired!

By leaving a legacy at Clemson that will forever impact our softball program and Clemson athletics, Stuart and Leigh Anne serve as a wonderful example of the power of philanthropy. As we consider how we can leave our mark at Clemson University, Stuart and Leigh Anne inspire us with their philanthropic spirit and commitment to serving others.

The Tiger Mascot is a symbol of the Clemson Family’s fierce dedication and devotion and our determined spirit and enthusiasm to be competitive. Each time Stuart donned the official suit of the Clemson Tiger, he represented this, and he and Leigh Anne continue to represent the best parts of the Clemson Tiger and have shared this rich tradition of giving with their children. Thank you, Stuart and Leigh Anne, for the impact you are making on our softball program, our players, Clemson athletics and future generations of Tigers.

Thank you, Stuart and Leigh Anne, for supporting our University and honoring Clemson’s greatest tradition of philanthropy. The Clemson Family is forever grateful!

Go Tigers! CU soon!

Brian O’Rourke

Greetings, fellow Tigers!

The success of our students is possible because the Clemson Family is devoted to offering their time, talent and treasures to their fellow Tigers. For instance, because of the dedication of our alumni, the Class of 1956 Academic Success Center (pictured above) is able to provide proactive, intentional and innovative services to equip our students with the tools, knowledge and mindset needed to enhance their learning. In honor of its 50^th anniversary, Clemson’s Class of 1956 initiated a fundraising campaign for a new building in which to house academic success programs, and Dr. Theodore G. Westmoreland ’65 also established a $1.5 million endowment to support undergraduate academic success programs. The Center was then able to open in 2012 and has been supporting Clemson students on their academic journeys for almost ten years.

Environmental toxicology student named first recipient of Klaine Fellowship

The College of Science celebrates philanthropy and investment in our students. The Department of Biological Sciences has been blessed with many generous donors who support graduate education and research opportunities. This academic year, a new annual fellowship in memory of Dr. Stephen Klaine has been awarded to Stephanie LaPlaca in the environmental toxicology program. Steve served on the Clemson faculty for 24 years before he passed away in 2016.  He was an internationally recognized environmental toxicologist with a legacy of devotion to teaching and mentoring. Having advised many master’s degree and doctoral students, graduate education is an incredible part of his legacy at Clemson. Friends and family came together to celebrate that legacy through a philanthropic commitment to students – like Stephanie.

Graduate students in the environmental toxicology program were eligible for the fellowship. The selection committee considered excellence in research and publication history first and foremost. The committee also considered outreach, teaching, presentations and awards. “She fits who Steve was,” said van den Hurk, who is the coordinator of the environmental toxicology program. “Steve was very science-oriented, but he was also oriented toward translating science to applications in the real world. As environmental scientists, we help society address environmental problems. Steve advocated that. I think Stephanie fits that picture very well.” You can read more here.

B – involved!

The Clemson Alumni Association is committed to providing you with opportunities to be involved with the University and the Clemson Family, and the Facebook Live Q&A sessions are a great way to help you stay connected. Today’s noon session will feature Marty Osborn ’84, President of Advoco, discussing Connecting the Community in the Face of Cancellations.

Your commitment to the Clemson Family and endless support is crucial as we continue to attract and unite students and faculty whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.

Clemson is forever grateful!

Go Tigers!

Brian O’Rourke

Greetings, fellow Tigers!

This week has provided us with the opportunity to reflect individually and collectively as we honor an American hero – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Throughout the week, our University has marked the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the theme “Our Legacy Matters” during our annual MLK Celebration.

Each year, I remember this quote: “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” It resonates with me as we reflect on his legacy and how we can follow his example in our mission to impact future generations of students.

Decisions and direction in unprecedented times

Clemson University Alumni Association continues to host Facebook Live Q&A sessions with University leaders and experts. Please join Bubba Britton today at noon as he welcomes Provost Jones to discuss his journey to Clemson and his journey BACK to Clemson. The session will also include discussions about decisions in response to COVID-19 and COVID-19 testing.

Swimming toward LIFE

It only takes a moment to change a life. Jessica Weitz is a testament to this. A lifelong competitive swimmer, Jessica’s experience working with special needs children in the pool during her college experience has led her to give to the ClemsonLIFE program. Her parents, Jonathan Weitz ‘90 and Lisa Weitz ‘90, established the Jessica Taylor Weitz Endowment for ClemsonLIFE in honor of Jessica’s passions.

The ClemsonLIFE program offers a collegiate experience that prepares young people with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment and independent living through a combination of academic coursework and career exploration. With around 40 students in the program, ClemsonLIFE acts as a catalyst for personal growth, teaching lessons that many of us take for granted. A day’s lesson may be proper texting etiquette, grocery shopping or hosting a party. These practical skills allow these students to live independent, joyful lives.

Jessica began working with special needs children as a student at Tulane University. A former collegiate swimmer for the university, she took time out of her intense training schedule to help students with special needs swim. It was in these precious moments with Joel that Jessica found her passion to help those with intellectual disabilities.

With Jessica’s charitable spirit and her parents’ philanthropy, LIFE students will continue in this outstanding program that impacts the hearts of the Clemson campus. ClemsonLIFE is an integral part of the Clemson spirit, and Jessica’s endowment will help keep it as such. You can read more about Jessica and the Jessica Taylor Weitz Endowment for ClemsonLIFE here.

B – reflective.

As a University, we continue to reflect on our history and how we can recognize and honor our legacy while also building upon Clemson’s commitment to inclusion, equity and full transparency. Clemson University strives to be a welcoming place for all, and we join our Clemson Family in its promise to do the work necessary to build on our progress as an inclusive university. As we continue to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this week, I encourage you to think about how we can each contribute our time, talent and treasures to this important work.

Thank you for your commitment – today, tomorrow and forever!

Go Tigers!

Brian O’Rourke

Greetings, fellow Tigers!

This past year has presented our University and the world with inconceivable challenges. But these challenges have uncovered champions of the Clemson Family who have gracefully and powerfully risen to the occasion.

I know I speak for the entire University and Clemson Family when I say that we are forever grateful to our Clemson University team members and our partners at MUSC who have worked tirelessly on the front lines of COVID-19 response since March. Clemson University and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) continue to work together, now administering COVID-19 vaccines to Clemson’s front-line workers classified as phase 1A. This longstanding and powerful partnership between the two institutions is ensuring vaccines are available to Clemson Rural Health clinicians and team members; Healthy Me-Healthy SC Rural COVID Screening Teams; Redfern Health Center medical personnel and staff; School of Nursing faculty, staff and students involved in direct clinical care; and first responders on campus like Fire and EMS. Please read more about this partnership and the amazing advancements in the battle against COVID-19.

David Beasley to keynote virtual Sonoco FRESH Food, Packaging & Sustainability Summit

In December 2020 the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize “… for its efforts to combat hunger, for its contribution to bettering conditions for peace in conflict-affected areas and for acting as a driving force in efforts to prevent the use of hunger as a weapon of war and conflict.” Beasley will paint a picture of the industry’s ability to make positive changes that will impact the future of sustainable food systems.

The Summit’s theme depicts the goal of optimizing the food value chain to protect food and the environment through safe, secure and sustainable solutions. You can read more about the summit here.

C.J. Spiller Selected for Induction in College Football Hall of Fame

The National Football Foundation announced this week that Clemson legend C.J. Spiller has been selected for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2021. Spiller earned the distinction in only his second year of eligibility.

Spiller is one of 11 players and two coaches in the 2021 College Football Hall of Fame Class selected from the national ballot.

One of the most exciting players in the sport’s history, Spiller had 21 career touchdowns covering at least 50 yards. He had eight kick returns for touchdowns in his career, most in ACC history. In the spring of 2010, he was the ninth overall selection in the NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He went on to play eight years in the NFL and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2012.

Spiller, whose No. 28 is retired at Clemson, was inducted into the Clemson Athletic Hall of Fame this past fall and is also slated for induction into the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame this spring. The 2009 Clemson graduate also now serves as a graduate coaching intern at Clemson in addition to serving as a member of the IPTAY Board of Directors. You can read more about Spiller and his hall of fame distinction here.

Men’s basketball update

Although Clemson’s men’s basketball games at North Carolina and Syracuse have been postponed due to COVID-19, it hasn’t stopped the Tigers from moving up. The Tigers are now ranked 12^th in the AP Top 25. I am looking forward to the Tigers returning to the court and continuing their amazing season. Go Tigers!

B – the best!

I enjoy having the opportunity to discuss with you all the wonderful things happening on our campus. Our physical separation from our fellow Tigers right now has only reiterated the special bond among the Clemson Family. Because of the support from you – our alumni, fans and friends – our University and our students continue to thrive. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to make Clemson the best!

Brian O’Rourke