Author: dbj

Clemson University’s Give Day–April 10, 2024

Dear Emeritus Faculty and Friends of the College,

You may have received emails from the University about the annual Give Day, Wednesday, April 10, 2024.  We hope that you will consider a gift to the Emeritus College. Your gifts do make a difference to the Emeritus College and directly to the Emeritus Faculty. You may donate HERE.  Unrestricted gifts support major events and an array of programming.  In addition, you may contribute to the Emeritus College’s Scholarship fund or one of our two endowments.

We have added panel discussions and coffees to welcome new emeritus faculty to the EC facilities in the CAT Building, expanded programming to include music, special interest groups, and added excursions for emeritus faculty.  The College’s goal is to facilitate retiring faculty to be actively engaged in the college, the community, and the university, a place to encourage and facilitate creativity, continued engagement, and crossing boundaries among and between disciplines.

You can donate online (click HERE) or  you also may mail or hand-deliver a check to the Emeritus College Office (511 Westinghouse Road, Pendleton, SC 29670). Make your check out to Clemson University Foundation with Emeritus College in the memo line. Every donation counts and enables the Emeritus College to provide essential benefits to the emeritus faculty and the university!

Our annual celebration, Emeritus Day, is April 17^th and we hope you will join us to welcome new colleagues into the Emeritus family.

Dr. Bonnie Stevens
Chair, Emeritus College Advisory Board

Clarence Dean Rogers (1938 — 2025) Clarence Dean Rogers, Swetenburg Professor Emeritus of Materials Science and Engineering, of Clemson, South Carolina, passed away peacefully March 21, 2025. Clarence retired in 2005 after dedicating 30 years to teaching in the Textile Department at Clemson University, where he also conducted numerous research projects with the textile industry across the country.  Born in Lake View, SC, Clarence grew up in Fair Bluff, NC where he graduated from Fair Bluff High School. Throughout his high school years, he excelled in sports, and his passion for athletics remained a central part of his life. He went on to receive his bachelor’s and master’s degree from North Carolina State University and earned his PhD from Clemson University where he served as a professor for many years.

Jerry M. Whitmore (1939 – 2024) Jerry M. Whitmire, an educator, author, farmer, and family man, passed away peacefully at his home in Pisgah Forest, NC on December 21, 2024. Born in 1939 in Rosman, North Carolina, Jerry was the son of Paul and Maxine Whitmire. Jerry pursued his passion for learning at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Spanish. He completed his graduate studies at the University of Alabama, then accepted a job in Bogota, Colombia, in South America, where he was director of a Bi-National Cultural Center for one year. Most of his career was teaching Spanish at Clemson University, where he inspired countless students with his love of language and culture, and sponsored the monthly Spanish Club.

Donald P. Miller (1927 — 2024) Donald P. Miller, husband of the late Dora Miller, and a dedicated physicist, passed away on December 19, 2024. Dr. Miller began working in the Physics Department at Clemson University in 1963 and retired in 1991 after 28 years of service. Born on October 11, 1927, in New Orleans, Louisiana, he was a son of the late James Hugh and Helen Piguet Miller.

Dr. Margaree S. Crosby (1941-1924) Dr. Margaree Seawright Crosby passed away on Friday, November 8, 2024. In 1960, she made her first mark in the fight for civil rights and equality as one of the “Greenville Eight”. This was a group of students, including Reverend Jessie Jackson, who sat in protest, resulting in the desegregation of the Greenville County Public Library. Her courage and activism reflected her commitment to social change and her belief in the importance of fighting for what was right. Dr. Crosby’s dream and aspirations did not stop there. In 1963, Dr. Crosby graduated from South Carolina State College, where she earned her B.A. Degree in Elementary Education. While there, she met her soulmate, the late Dr. Willis Herman Crosby, Jr., who affectionately called her “Ree.” They were later married that summer on June 22 and were happily married for almost sixty years until he passed away in 2022. In 1973, she earned her Master of Education in Reading from Clemson University. In 1976, she earned her Doctor of Education in Reading/Elementary Education from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She began working at Clemson University in 1977, becoming a full reading and language arts professor. Dr. Crosby had a distinguished career as an educator, shaping the minds of countless students with her passion for learning. Her academic journey was a testament to her determination and belief in the transformative power of education. Dr. Crosby retired in 1985 as Professor Emerita of Clemson University. Dr. Crosby’s life was filled with many ground-breaking accomplishments. She was the first woman board member to serve in the over eighty-year history of the Greenville Memorial Hospital System, and the first African American female to become a Professor of Education at Clemson University, where she tenured in 1992. She was also South Carolina’s first Women’s Achievement Award recipient, in addition to Who’s Who in American Education—all milestones that are a testament to her leadership and commitment. Dr. Crosby has made endless educational, service, and civic contributions on the local, state, and national levels in supervisory teaching, research, and consulting.

Russel Judd Diefendorf, PhD (1931-2024) Dr. Russell Judd Diefendorf, Clemson University McAllister Professor Emeritus of Ceramic Engineering, of Seneca, SC, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2024, after a long and admirable battle with leukemia. Judd was born in Mount Vernon, NY, the youngest of three sons of Warren Edwin and Martha Catharine Diefendorf. A 1949 graduate of The Stony Brook School in Long Island, NY, Judd went on to attend University of Rochester and University of Toronto, where he earned his Ph. D. in Physical Chemistry in 1958. After an already rich career, in 1990, Judd began teaching the science of ceramics at Clemson– an area less familiar to him. He retired from Clemson in 2000 and shortly after was recognized as the American Ceramic Society’s James Mueller Memorial lecturer in honor of the “spirit and vision” with which he had pursued advanced ceramics.

Dr. Lawrence Rudolph Gering (1957-2024) Lawrence R. (Larry) Gering, Associate Professor Emeritus of Forestry and Environmental Conservation, passed away on October 11, 2024, in Belfast Maine. Larry was born in 1957 in New Jersey and was raised there. He earned a B.S. in Forestry from the University of Maine in 1979, an M.S. in forestry from Clemson University (Bill Shaine was his major professor), and his Ph.D. in forest biometrics from the University of Georgia. He was most proud of his teaching. In 2017, Larry was awarded a national forestry teaching award from the Society of American Foresters—the Carl Alwin Schenck Award for teaching excellence in the field of forestry education. 
Larry was a forest biometrician and retired from Clemson University after his 34th forestry summer camp in June of 2019. His career spanned over 30 years in research and education at Louisiana Tech University, Oklahoma State University, and Clemson University. Dr. Gering had a significant impact on shaping young minds and teaching forestry students the practical aspects of forest inventory.

Jo Ann McNatt, PhD (1934-2024) Dr. Jo Ann McNatt, Clemson University Professor Emerita of Languages, passed away peacefully at Clemson Downs Area Retirement Center following a lengthy illness on Sunday October 6, 2024. She taught French at Clemson University beginning in 1965 and did so until her retirement in 1993 as a Professor Emerita of French and Spanish.
Jo Ann was born in Atmore, Alabama, the daughter of the late Fred Littleton and Lillie Burleson McNatt. She moved to Clemson at age 8, grew up on Riggs Drive, and graduated from Calhoun Clemson High School in 1952. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Furman University, her Master’s Degree from Emory University and her PhD from UNC Chapel Hill. Prior to coming to Clemson University, she taught in the Fulton County Georgia school system.

Dr. Renu Laskar (1932-2024) Trailblazing mathematician Renu Chakravarti Laskar, Clemson University Professor Emerita in Mathematical Sciences, passed away in Mountain View, California, on September 17, 2024. She was surrounded by her family.  Laskar joined Clemson University in 1968 and retired in 2006, after 38 years of faculty service. “She is loved, well known, highly respected and even legendary in graph theory, combinatorics and discrete mathematics,” said her Clemson University colleague and longtime friend, Professor Stephen Hedetniemi. At Clemson, Laskar graduated 14 PhDs, was the author of 160 publications, and collaborated with 93 co-authors. She was the first Indian woman to earn a PhD in mathematics from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She was the first female faculty at any campus of the Indian Institute of Technology.  Laskar, who collaborated with math giants such as R.C. Bose (inventor of the BCH codes used in wireless communications) and Hungarian mathematician Paul Erdos, was a mathematician who specialized in combinatorics and graph theory. She wrote four papers with Paul Erdos, giving her an Erdos number of 1. She was a dedicated researcher of combinatorics and graph theory, mathematics that has had practical applications in computer science and in linguistics. Graph theory is also used, as examples, for sports teams and airline scheduling, and solving complicated puzzles such as Sudoko.

Dr. Verne W. House (1937-2024)  Dr. Verne House, Clemson Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology and an extension specialist, passed away on September 13, 2024. He retired in 1998 from Clemson University and worked in several areas in his field. He first attended Powell University, and then the University of Wyoming in Laramie to study Ag Economics. Verne earned his Ph.D. from Washington State University. With his degree in agricultural economics, he delved into the MSU ag-extension department and worked with statewide programs to help farmers develop markets for their products. Once his kids were out of high school, Verne and Nancy took moved to Clemson University where he maintained a home and friendships with his colleagues and those in the community until his death.

Dr. Henry Rack (1942-2024) Henry Johan Rack, Professor Emeritus of Materials Science and Engineering, of Pendleton, SC, passed away on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. Born November 1, 1942, in New York City, NY, he was the son of the late Henry Rack and Maria Scharpf Rack. Henry Rack received his PhD from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He was Professor Emeritus in Materials Science and Engineering at Clemson University. Prior to joining Clemson in 1985 he worked at Lockheed-Georgia, Sandia National Labs, Exxon and ARCO metals. He was a former member of the Palmetto Ski Club, enjoyed playing poker and traveling. More than anything, Henry was a man who loved and was devoted to his family.

Dr. Raymond Noblet (1943-2024) On August 6, 2024, Raymond Noblet, 81 years old, died peacefully at home in Watkinsville, GA, with family by his side. Professor Emeritus of Entomology, Dr. Noblet began his career at Clemson on March 1, 1970, retiring after 30 years of service in 2000.  He served as president of Faculty Senate and helped establish The Institute for Wildlife and Environmental Toxicology (TIWET) at the University.  Upon completion of his PhD, Ray was hired by the Department of Entomology and Economic Biology at Clemson University. In 1985 he transitioned from his position as an insect scientist to a medical and veterinary entomologist role. While having a wide range of scientific interests and successes, Ray probably made his most impactful contributions collaborating with Abbott Laboratories and assisting in the development of highly efficacious formulations of the Vectobac 12AS larvicide. These formulations were used to fight Onchoceriasis transmission in West Africa and remain the gold standard for black fly suppression around the world.

Dr. Linda B. Gambrell (1942-2024) professor emerita in the Eugene T. Moore School of Education at Clemson University and a past president of the International Reading Association (IRA, now the International Literacy Association, ILA), died on August 6, 2024, at the age of 82. Considered a towering figure in the literacy field, Gambrell’s contributions as a researcher, educator, leader, and friend leave an indelible mark on the profession and the countless lives she touched.  Her career was one of dedication, innovation, and quiet leadership. As Kathy Headley, emerita professor of literacy and senior associate dean at Clemson University, and a past president of ILA, aptly described, “Linda B. Gambrell was a steel magnolia. Gambrell possessed her own leadership style for supporting our beloved field of literacy. With her quiet energy, she guided three key literacy organizations as president. Her caring outreach touched the many lives of family, friends, colleagues, students, and teachers. She made a meaningful impact and will be missed.”

James (Jim) Allen Reneke, PhD., (1937-2024) Professor Emeritus of Mathematical Sciences, died on August 2, 2024. After earning his Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Jim built his career as a professor of mathematics at Clemson University, 1966-2006. He loved being a mathematician and was always eager to explain how math was fundamental to modern life. Even during holidays and while on vacation he could often be found sitting quietly with a yellow pad of paper working on a math problem. As much as he loved math, he enjoyed a range of other interests and knew the importance of having fun to a life well-lived. Jim was an avid sailor and was active for many years in the Western Carolina Sailing Club and the Clemson University Sailing Club. He loved racing his Thistle sailboat on Lake Hartwell especially with one of his kids as crew. He fed his love of nature on camping trips, hiking, and walking on the beach. Edisto Island held a special place in his heart. Later in life, Jim and Sue took every opportunity to travel visiting many National Parks, including Yellowstone, and making several trips to Europe.

Daniel Warner, PhD., (1942-2024) Professor Emeritus of Mathematical Sciences, passed away on June 29, 2024. Dr. Warner began his Clemson career on August 15, 1979, retiring in 2015 after nearly 36 years of service. He returned to work in a part-time position for another year. In addition to his time as a professor, he served as president of Faculty Senate and was active in the Emeritus College serving as the EC Liaison to the Senate and as interim director in 2018.  He earned his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of California at San Diego, receiving the Alston S. Householder Award for his doctoral dissertation in numerical analysis. Dan served in a variety of other positions specializing in computer-related activities over the course of his 50-year career: He was a programmer for the General Electric Corporation, a programming analyst at Arizona State University, a computer analyst at Airesearch, and a member of the technical staff of the Computing Mathematics Research Department at Bell Laboratories. In addition, Dan was a Lieutenant in Underwater Demolition Team Eleven for the United States Navy. While serving, Dr. Warner received a U.S. Navy Commendation and U.S. Navy Achievement Awards.

Dr. James Fanning (1931-2024) James (Jim) Collier Fanning, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, professor, and community member, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2024. Born on November 8, 1931, in Atlanta, Georgia, Jim led a life defined by dedication to his family, education, and community service. Jim graduated from The Citadel in 1953, where he was a proud member of the Band Company. He pursued his passion for chemistry at Georgia Tech, earning both a Master’s and a PhD. His distinguished career included a long tenure as a professor of chemistry at Clemson University. He also took sabbaticals at the University of Illinois and National Institutes of Health (NIH). As a professor, he delighted students with his chemistry magic shows, sharing his love of science in an entertaining way. His lifelong passion for learning was evident in everything he did, and he encouraged others to pursue their educational journeys.  James Collier Fanning’s life was a symphony of love, learning, and service. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were

Dr. V Sridharan (1966-2024), Professor Emeritus of Management and former chair of the Department of Management at Clemson University, passed in the early hours of June 21, 2024. Sridharan began his Clemson career on December 29, 1987, and served the University for more than 35 years before his retirement. He was greatly cherished, loved, respected, admired by his wife Uma, his daughter Suhas (and her husband Zac), son Jay Krishna, precious grandsons Adiraj and Vikram and many friends, colleagues, former Ph.D. students, and members of his extended family. He is greatly and deeply missed.

Dr. Jay Smink (1938-2024) Professor Emeritus of Educational and Organizational Leadership and Executive Director of the National Dropout Prevention at Clemson University, passed away on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. Beloved husband of the late Frances Smink and son of the late John Law and Irene Smink, Dr. Smink was born in Lykens, PA on January 24, 1938. He obtained a Bachelor’s in Industrial Education from Millersville University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s and Doctorate in Education from The Pennsylvania State University. He retired as the executive director of the National Dropout Prevention at Clemson University after 24 years and was awarded professor emeritus in Clemson University’s College of Health, Education, and Human Development. 
Dr. Smink was a prominent leader, researcher, speaker, and author in the fields of mentoring, dropout prevention and at-risk youth. His work in dropout prevention led to the identification of effective strategies that continue to have positive and long-lasting effects within our education systems and society.  Before Clemson University, his career included classroom teaching in public schools, leadership positions in state agencies, and research and administrative positions at the National Center for Technical Education at The Ohio State University.  During retirement, he was active in Clemson’s Emeritus College, and he continued to serve on numerous national and state boards and commissions. His lifelong commitment to improving educational outcomes was recognized by many awards including the Governor and Mrs. Riley Award for significant contributions to South Carolina 

Dr. Lawrence “Larry” Edward Nix, Sr. (1943-2024), Professor Emeritus of Forestry and Natural Resources passed away on April 17, 2024. Dr. Nix was a professor at Clemson University for 34 years when he retired in 2008. He received his B.S. and M.S. degrees from Mississippi State University, where he majored in forestry with an emphasis on the physiology of forest trees. In 1974, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Georgia. He was a passionate hunter and loved his college students. Dr. Nix married Joyce Stephens in 1968, and they enjoyed spending time with their children and grandchildren.

Dr. Thomas M. Keinath (1941-2024)  Dean and Professor Emeritus Thomas M. Keinath has 37 years of academic experience including 30 years as an academic administrator. For 14 years he led the College of Engineering & Science which consists of 4,500 to 5,000 students and approximately 430 faculty and permanent staff. At the time, the College offered BS, MS and PhD degree programs in eight engineering disciplines and four physical and mathematical sciences.  Keinath came to Clemson in 1962 as an Assistant Professor of Environmental Systems Engineering and after 37 years retired in 2006.  Tom completed his doctorate and post-doctoral work at the University of Michigan in water resources engineering. Dean Anand Gramopadhye wrote in his letter to the college:  “Tom was an exemplar scholar and researcher, a true giant in his discipline. As a faculty member of our college, chair of our environmental engineering department and later as a Dean of the College of Engineering and Science, he propelled us to great heights. But beyond his leadership, to many of us who knew him well, we will remember Tom not only as a great Dean, but a true gentleman, a caring mentor and friend. His kindness and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on all those who crossed his path. As we mourn his loss, we will also celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. Tom’s impact on the academic community and at Clemson will be remembered for years to come.” During his 37-year professional career as a member of the academy, Dean Keinath was very active in service to the major national and international professional organizations concerned with water quality control. Dr. Keinath completed two two-year terms as President of the International Water Association (headquartered in London) and as Chair of its Executive Committee and Governing Board. He served the American Society of Civil Engineers as Chair of its Clarifier Research Technical Committee. Dean Keinath also served as President of the Association of Environmental Engineering Professors and as well as a three-year term as Chair of the 150-member Program Committee of the Water Environment Federation. He also served on several committees and panels of the National Research Council of the National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Science. Dr. Keinath has published extensively in the technical literature. Included are four books or monographs and well over 100 technical papers. Most of these have dealt with the modeling and control of water and wastewater treatment facilities and physicochemical methods of treatment. The majority of his research was focused on adsorption/exchange processes, secondary clarification, sludge treatment, and surface and aquifer soil remediation.  Dr. Keinath was recognized by award of the Founders Award by the Association of Environmental Engineering and Science professors in 2002. This award recognizes outstanding contributions to the nation in environmental engineering education. In 1997, Dr. Keinath was conferred the Gordon Maskew Fair Medal by the Water Environment Federation for his lifetime accomplishments in the education of environmental engineer professionals. Dr. Keinath also was recognized by his alma mater, The University of Michigan, by being conferred the Alumni Society Merit Award (1996). In 1995, Dr. Keinath received the Harrison Prescott Eddy Medal for a publication, which appeared in Water Environment Research. In 1985, Dr. Keinath was awarded the Walter L. Huber Civil Engineering Research Prize for his career research accomplishments. He has also been named a Chapter Honor Member of Chi Epsilon, the Civil Engineering honorary society, and an UNESCO Expert Lecturer. He has been recognized by the American Water Works Association by being conferred the Amsbury Academic Achievement Award. He is a member of numerous honor societies and is listed in significant biographical listings. The Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors and the Water Environment Federation has conferred distinguished service awards upon him.  During his career, Dr. Keinath directed the research of 87 master’s, 15 Ph.D., and 8 postdoctoral students. Dean Emeritus Keinath was residing in Silverthorne, Colorado and more information will be shared as it is available regarding his service.

Dr. Paul Thayer Holmes (1935-2024) Paul Thayer Holmes, Clemson Professor Emeritus of Mathematical Sciences, of West Columbia, died peacefully at home with family on March 4th, 2024. Paul taught at Clemson University for 33 years. Moving to South Carolina and Clemson was life changing for Paul when it came to outdoor activity. Lake Hartwell provided boating, skiing, and swimming. The proximity to the mountains and joining the Clemson chapter of the Sierra Club led to an over 50-year career in whitewater kayaking. This was mostly on the Chattooga River and other southeast Rivers but also on trips to Ecuador, Idaho, Oregon, and the Grand Canyon. Paul earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Washington State College and his doctorate in Mathematics from Stanford University. He was a professor at Purdue (4 years) and Rutgers (3 years, before settling into a 33-year career at Clemson University. He turned down far more lucrative corporate careers to teach, which he loved.
When describing Paul Holmes, the term “life-long learner” comes to mind. He was a voracious reader, learned woodworking and car repair at Tri County Tech, audited many French and Spanish courses, and became a beekeeper. He tried to learn to play the banjo, taught himself to roll a kayak from a book, and learned to drive a tractor. Paul was an avid runner and an excellent baker of breads.

Dr. Harold “Hal” Harris, Jr. (1939-2024) Harold (Hal) Monroe Harris, Jr., passed away Monday, March 4, 2024, with his wife Claudia by his side. Dr. Holmes – Hal – arrived at Clemson University in 1975, where he taught and worked with farmers in extension service for 28 years. He received many honors during his tenure at Clemson, including The Award for Faculty Excellence, The Distinguished Public Service Award, and induction into the Dairy Hall of Fame. In 2003, Dr. Holmes retired and was awarded the notable title of Professor Emeritus.  Born and raised in Montgomery Alabama on his family’s dairy farm, he was the son of Harold and Lillian Haden Harris. Hal graduated Pi Kappa Phi from Auburn University and then entered the US Army, where he served in the 7th Cavalry division as a first lieutenant. He completed his education at Purdue University, earning a doctorate in Agricultural Economics. Hal was an Associate Professor at Virginia Tech before taking his position at Clemson. He loved outdoor activities and was an avid golfer, gardener, and fisherman. Hal was a devoted Tiger and War Eagle, never missing games. He was also a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity and Sigma Xi honor society.

Dr. Gordon Lewis (1933-2024) Dr. Gordon Lewis, Clemson Professor Emeritus and Department Head of Ceramic Engineering (retired), passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Dr. Lewis was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of the late H. Weldon Lewis and the late Dora Kropp Lewis. He was also predeceased by a sister, Judy Simpson. Dr. Lewis obtained his bachelor’s degree in Ceramic Engineering and earned his PhD in Ceramic Engineering from Alfred University in Alfred, New York. He completed his post – doctoral fellowship at the University of Kansas – Lawrence. He was a former professor at the University of Missouri – Rolla and retired as the Department Head of Ceramic Engineering at Clemson University.  He was active member at Seneca Presbyterian Church where he served as an Elder and an Adult Sunday School Teacher. Dr. Lewis was also a lifelong member of the Masonic Lodge.

Dr. Subhash Chandra Anand (1933—2024) Dr. Subhash Chandra Anand, Professor Emeritus of Civil Engineering, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2024, with his loved ones by his side. Born in Lyallpur, India on July 27, 1933, he was the seventh of nine children of Bhagat Singh and Vidya Vati. He received his Civil Engineering degree from Banaras Hindu University. He then lived in Germany and worked in industry for six years before moving to the United States in 1964 to attend graduate school at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where he received his Ph.D. degree in Civil Engineering. While at Northwestern, he started his beloved family with his wife, Vera, and his two daughters, Mina and Indu. The family moved to Clemson, SC in 1972 where Dr. Anand joined the Civil Engineering department at Clemson University. He taught numerous undergraduate and graduate courses and was principal advisor for several master’s and Ph.D. students. He received several prestigious awards, including the Quattlebaum Faculty Achievement award from Clemson University and a Fulbright award to teach in Uruguay. His research work was funded by various local and national agencies, including the National Science Foundation, and published in prestigious engineering journals. He retired from the University in 2006.

Donald D. Clayton, PhD (1935—2024) Professor Emeritus of Physics and Astronomy.  His remarkable academic journey stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and profound contributions to the field. Having hailed from humble beginnings during the Great Depression, Clayton’s pursuit of knowledge saw him graduate with distinction from Southern Methodist University in 1956. His desire for a deeper understanding of the cosmos led him to the prestigious California Institute of Technology, where he attained his Ph.D. under the mentorship of Nobel Laureate William Alfred Fowler in 1961. This collaboration paved the way for Clayton’s subsequent scientific career, redefining our comprehension of the vast universe we inhabit. Clayton’s career continued as he became one of the founding faculty members of Rice University’s Department of Space Science in 1963. This coincided with the rise and excitement surrounding NASA’s Apollo Program, and Clayton played a crucial role in shaping the department’s course offerings. Notably, he initiated a graduate-student course on nuclear reactions in stars, an endeavor that laid the foundation for his textbook, “Principles of Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis,” which was published in 1968 and continues to influence and inspire aspiring astrophysicists worldwide. Clayton’s academic leadership at Rice University earned him the prestigious Andrew Hays Buchanan Professorship of Astrophysics in 1968, a position he diligently held for two decades. His research prowess extended beyond national borders, as he spent seven years affiliated with esteemed institutions such as the University of Cambridge and Heidelberg University. Clayton also enjoyed visiting positions in Cardiff, UK, and embarked on sabbatical leaves at Cambridge, Heidelberg, and Durham University, UK.  A defining moment in Clayton’s illustrious career arrived in 1966 when he was invited back to Caltech by W.A. Fowler. This collaboration proved to be instrumental in furthering our understanding of explosive supernova nucleosynthesis. Clayton’s research endeavors also took him to Cambridge, where he made important contributions to the field of gamma-ray astronomy.  From 1977 to 1984, Clayton divided his time between teaching at Rice University in Houston, Texas and conducting research at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics in Heidelberg. During this period, his groundbreaking work on stardust, cosmic chemical memory, and the survival rates of refractory stardust earned him the Leonard Medal in 1991. In 1989, Clayton accepted a professorship at Clemson University, where he played an instrumental role in establishing a cutting-edge graduate research program in astrophysics. His dedication and research spanned projects such as the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, where his predictions regarding radioactive nuclei in supernova remnants were confirmed. Even after his official retirement in 2007, Clayton remained an active force in the field, with a particular focus on the condensation of dust within supernovae. Notably, he assembled a comprehensive web-based photo archive detailing the history of nuclear astrophysics and chronicling his own contributions from 1990 through 2014. Beyond his scholarly contributions, Clayton’s love for astrophysics transcended traditional academic boundaries. He authored several books, including the novel “The Joshua Factor,” as well as a science autobiography entitled “Catch a Falling Star.” These literary works showcased his passion for making complex astrophysical concepts accessible to a broader audience, solidifying his influence beyond the academic sphere.

OCTOBER 3, 2023

The Clemson Emeritus College gathered on Tuesday, October 3 for the annual Fall Picnic and Business Meeting. Approximately 150 emeritus faculty enjoyed great food and conversation while welcoming new members. During the meeting, the group evaluated, voted upon and passed changes to the Emeritus College bylaws and strategic plan, and the college awarded the prestigious Emeritus College Community Service Award to two very deserving Emeritus faculty for their outstanding decades of community service.

Gordon Howard, Professor Emeritus of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

Since 1984, Howard has offered his services as a licensed bird bander on the grounds of the Crown Point State Historic Site in New York. The historic site is designated as an important bird area by the National Audubon Society, a bird conservation area by the state of New York and is referred to as a banding ‘station’.

Bird banding is an effort to track different species of migratory birds that pass through the region every year in order to collect ecological data and improve conservation efforts. With climate change and deforestation, the unbroken string of the station’s banding records is becoming increasingly important. Presentations to groups and individuals who visit the station are designed to involve visitors with wildlife in a non-consumptive manner, which include the visitor releasing a banded bird. In 1988 Howard began giving a Polaroid picture to each person releasing a banded bird to show friends and family. A follow-up Educational Certificate Program was begun in 1995 whereby trifold certificates were mailed to releasers that include an image of the bird, a brief life history of the bird species, the banding information and Clemson University’s support for the program.

In 1997, releasers began to be notified when “their bird” was captured at the banding station or at another location. After the station closes each year Howard enters the data into the state and federal government databases, writes the Atlantic Flyway Report and sends a summary report to each visitor. In 2015, Howard also began an apprenticeship program of future banders. In addition to banding, two tail feathers are collected from “target species” as part of the stations third year of cooperation with the Bird Genoscape Project, a hemisphere wide avian genetics research program managed by units of the University of California – Los Angeles and Colorado State University.

Barry Nocks, Professor Emeritus of City and Regional Planning

Nocks has devoted himself to public service over the past two decades. In 2001, his leadership as chair of the Reedy River Master Planning Committee paved the way for a plan that profoundly change Greenville. His vision of the Swamp Rabbit Trail and the revitalization of the Reedy River as a public amenity has been the impetus for Greenville’s urban planning priorities. 

Nocks also served as a member and chairman of the City of Greenville’s Planning Commission from 2000-2009. He then chaired and served as a member of Greenville’s Design Review Board from 2009 to 2017, during the city’s unprecedented growth following the recession. Nocks also served as a volunteer on numerous Greenville planning committees focused on preservation, housing and strengthening the city’s zoning ordinances. As a certified arbitrator, his mediation skills played a valuable role in shaping major mixed-use developments. Most recently, he worked closely with the city to develop the Greenville 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the 2023 Development Code. Perhaps the greatest testimony comes from the many Master of City and Regional Planning alumni who continually ask for his advice in dealing with difficult planning issues. Nicknamed ‘Yoda’ by his peers, Nock’s wisdom and tireless efforts in public service have made Greenville one of America’s most livable communities.

Clifton “Chip” Egan, Dean and Professor Emeritus of Performing Arts and IDE Emeritus College Fellow

Good morning! Allow me to begin by offering my sincere congratulations to the newest members of the Clemson University Emeritus College. I like to think of my own retirement as the best promotion I ever received. You are beginning a delightful and enriching journey of the life-of-the-mind joining with new academic and social colleagues you may have never had a chance to get to know. Among the many wonderful benefits of EC membership is the pleasant dissolving of the academic boundaries you spent your career adhering to. The Emeritus College offers you a chance to meet, work with, and get to know some of the most enriching, far flung, and amazing minds the academy has to offer. Welcome to adventure.

President Clements, Senior Associate Provost Lawton-Rauh, deans and department heads, family members and well-wishers, and my fellow emeritus faculty, it is my distinct privilege to speak to you today on the occasion of the 20^th anniversary celebration of the Clemson University Emeritus College. This is a day for looking back on two decades of accomplishment and growth, for taking stock of where we are as a college and, perhaps most significantly, looking forward to the coming decade of new horizons and challenges for the Emeritus College.

With your indulgence, I’d like to take a few minutes to reflect on my personal journey of retirement as a member of the Emeritus College for nineteen of the past twenty years. I first retired in 2004 after 28 years of teaching at Clemson. I arrived in 1976 as an assistant professor of theatre in the English department. When I filled out my employment papers and enrolled in the various benefit programs, the only option for retirement was the SC Retirement System. It was just as well. At age 24, I could have easily made a bad decision, had I had any choice.

In 2004, my decision to retire may have been a little ill-considered, but I was resolute. As a theatre professor and practitioner with a career-long collection of professional contacts, including former students, I wanted to start a second career as a self-employed, freelance theatre professional. For the next two years, my supremely patient wife, Diane, and I lived largely on the road in temporary housing provided by theatre companies around the country. We followed contract employment to places like Boston; Raton, NM; Moscow, ID; Roanoke, VA and Hilton Head, SC. Diane worked as an actor and stage manager, and I worked as an actor, director and designer. It was a life of variety and adventure, but not particularly comfortable or grounded.

In one housing arrangement in New Mexico, we lived for a summer stock season in an historic but only semi-maintained and un air-conditioned historic hotel called the El Portal. The occupants were a combination of tourists, fellow theatre employees and itinerant laborers. We lived in a semi-furnished suite of rooms with another couple and ended up using various cardboard boxes for coffee tables and side tables. We were living the life of theatre vagabonds. A couple of years later, the El Portal burned to the ground.

By spring 2006, I was living in an extended stay hotel in Roanoke, VA, while directing the premier of a play called Elvis People at Mill Mountain Theatre. The play was an ingenious collection of vignettes about the lives of the fans of Elvis Presley. The featured and final vignette was the story of an average Joe who fell into Elvis impersonating and began working at local used car lots for free. He eventually found his way onto cruise ships and ultimately to the world capital of Elvis impersonators, Las Vegas, where finally the “Peter Principle” kicked in. He had ascended to the level of his incompetence. Humbled and humiliated in a sudden death “Elvis off” with a show business giant, he shuffled home to his now-broken marriage and his previous job, older but wiser.

While I was directing, I got a call from a friend and colleague of mine in English at Clemson who, during the course of our conversation, wondered how his department was going to find someone to serve as interim chair when no one was interested. Almost without thinking, I told him I would do it. Long story short, I returned to work at Clemson for what became nearly six more years of administration including a three-year stint as dean of Architecture, Arts and Humanities followed by a stint as interim director of the Emeritus College. I went from gig work in theatre to gig work in academic administration. Having rejoined the SC Retirement System, I retired again which brings me back to today’s occasion! After two decades of operation, the Emeritus College has grown fully into its position as one of the now eleven colleges of Clemson University.

The Clemson Faculty Constitution states in its Preamble, “To fulfill its role of preserving, interpreting, and advancing knowledge, a university depends upon the scholarship and professionalism of its Faculty.” The Constitution further defines the membership of Clemson’s faculty as consisting of, “the President; Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost; other administrators with faculty rank; faculty with regular appointments as Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, or Instructor; Librarians; Emeritus Faculty; and such other individuals as the faculty may duly elect.”

The Emeritus College, by measure of its 867 faculty members, 61% of whom live within a 40-minute drive, is the largest college at Clemson. It is both extraordinary and powerfully influential that so many retired faculty choose to live so close to Clemson for their retirement years. We live in one of the most desirable places in our country. We enjoy a mild and yet varied climate, proximity to such natural wonders as the Blue Ridge Escarpment, also known as The Blue Wall, and an extraordinary system of lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. We are home to world class arts and sports in venues normally located in heavily urban settings. We support a food culture that rivals the best anywhere. Although our rapidly growing population adds pressure to it, our cost of living is still considered a bargain. We now consistently top multiple “The Best of…” lists for retirement living. But it is Clemson University’s cultivation of the affection and continuing engagement of its retired faculty that nourishes our branch of “the Clemson Family.”

But “Family” has taken on a new meaning in the post-pandemic world. The Emeritus College has grown its reach and accessibility by adopting both virtual and hybrid, streaming and recorded programming and by conducting its officer and business meetings in a hybrid format. The College now regularly engages members from across the country for both business and programming.

One year prior to the origin of Clemson’s Emeritus College, the Association of Retirement Organizations in Higher Education was founded in 2002. Twenty-one years later, AROHE, as it is known, champions Clemson as a model for engaged retirement and institutional effectiveness among its 130 institutional members. Of that number, only four institutions have designated their retirement organizations as colleges. Because Clemson made that defining choice, we hold an enviable position as the Nation’s premier academic retirement organization.

No celebration of the EC’s twenty years of existence would be complete without crediting its founding visionaries of Provost Dori Helms, President Jim Barker, University Historian Jerry Reel and Founding Director, Diane Smathers. Their choice to create a college of retired faculty imbued the EC with legitimacy and agency that has inspired the organization to reach ever higher standards of excellence and accomplishment. Members are proud to tout their college affiliation knowing that it provides a permanent home for their continuing growth and development as faculty and life-long learners.

The Emeritus College is fortunate to have been guided by a series of highly effective directors, beginning with its founding director, Dr. Diane Smathers. For the first ten years, Diane grew the EC identity and brand as an exemplary organization. She joined AROHE and promoted the involvement of individual Clemson Emeriti. She patiently taught the University how to fulfill the status of emeriti as full faculty invested by the Faculty Constitution, by pursuing their rightful access to all University privileges such as parking, ID cards, library access, information technology resources, Fike privileges and so forth. She created the EC Advisory Board, guided the creation of our by-laws, and all the while projected professionalism, legitimacy and gravitas to Clemson and the higher education industry. Dr. Smathers is here with us today.

Dr. Dwaine Eubanks, the second permanent director, built on Diane’s foundation of organizational health to take the EC to the next level by relocating the EC offices, promoting strategic planning, expanding programming, hiring a full-time program coordinator, creating more recognitions for Emeritus faculty achievement, and instituting a program of Emeritus Faculty Fellows. Following Dwaine’s untimely death in 2018, the Fellows program was named in his honor. His widow, Lucy Eubanks is here today.

The third and current director, Dr. Debbie Jackson, is serving in her fifth year as a dynamic leader who has guided the Emeritus College through the pandemic years implementing streaming and hybrid programing and greatly expanding the on-line reach and reputation of the College. She has continued to promote service opportunities and has nurtured a culture of inclusion and diversity by expanding membership and leadership opportunities. Recently, she facilitated a continuing partnership between the Emeritus College and the Class of ’39, Clemson’s only perpetual class, consisting, in part, of the annual faculty recipients of the Class of ’39 Award for Excellence.

In 2018, under Debbie’s leadership, two Clemson Emeritus College language programs for international graduate students, the Clemson English-Speaking Proficiency (CESP) test and its follow up, the Conversations with International Students (CIS) program, were selected for a national award! Working together, those programs significantly enhance participating students’ English language skills and cultural awareness. The pair of programs received the AROHE National Innovation Award for benefiting students, improving instruction, and enhancing campus diversity.

It’s truly a campus-wide initiative involving emeriti CESP interviewers, emeriti CIS mentors, student participants, graduate coordinators, student-service coordinators, active faculty, department chairs, college, and university administrators. Also contributing are faculty and staff from the Pearce Center, Graduate School, and Office of Global Engagement. The programs are now institutionalized as continuing programs.

Throughout the twenty-year history of the EC, support from the Office of the Provost has been an indispensable anchor of stability and resources. I want to recognize Provost Bob Jones and Associate Provost Amy Lawton-Rauh and thank them for their unwavering enthusiasm for the Emeritus College and the value that it provides for Clemson’s mission, vision, and strategic goals.

As a part of its 20^th anniversary celebration, the Emeritus College has joined with the Clemson University Press to publish Moments and Memories: Reflections of Emeritus College Faculty, a collection of essays surrounding the Clemson experiences of its retired faculty. Guided by four editors, Victoria Gillis, Debbie Jackson, Kathy Headley and Marty Duckenfield, the collection of eighty essays covers over sixty years of Clemson University history. You are receiving a copy today. In the book’s Foreword, Provost Jones writes, “The rich tapestry of faculty experiences in this book reveals humility and dedication to the land-grant mission and our institution. They make me proud to be a Clemson Tiger.”

At the January meeting of the EC Advisory Council, a discussion of undertaking a self-study and review of the College’s strategic plan for the purpose of framing a vibrant path into the future was held. The College’s mission and vision statements have been effective touchstones, but could we articulate our core values as a companion and a powerful engine for continuing advancement and effectiveness? A volunteer group of Emeriti began meeting every two weeks to draft and review such a document. The resulting one-page statement, approved last week by the Advisory Council, is before you in your packet.

Our meetings and discussions have been rich, animated, thought-provoking, and productive. We examined the University’s and Board of Trustees’ statements of guiding principles and values. We collected similar statements from other universities that we considered to be comparable. We debated the political hazards of our time and how much, or even whether, they should be taken into account. Ultimately, we fashioned a short and defining set of aspirations that we believe will inspire us to be at the forefront of the Clemson Elevate planning effort. The next step is to revise our strategic plan in accordance with these values.

Chief among our values is that of belonging. As I mentioned earlier, the phrase, “the Clemson Family” has been used for years to describe that certain, almost indefinable something that draws people to Clemson and holds them. Can a 30,000-person institution truly remain a family? Key to our belief that it’s possible is the notion that a feeling of belonging, born of the caring, respect and trust that Emeriti find in their college, can be modeled throughout Clemson’s campus culture. Maybe our college of senior citizen, life-long educators can lead the way! The members of the Emeritus College are proudly embarking on that path. Thank you for your kind attention today and GO TIGERS.

April 25, 2023 Emeritus Day Luncheon

Joel Greenstein

In service to the Emeritus College, Greenstein has served as a member of the Emeritus College Advisory Committee as well as its chair from 2020 to 2021. During his time in this position, he made it his mission to fully fund the Kenelly/Voss Endowment at the $25,000 mark. The endowment was initiated in 2008 and for many years other funds were used to make the contributions awarded in the recipient’s name. Greenstein currently serves as the liaison from the Emeritus College to AROHE. He took over from Lucy Eubanks, who recommended Joel for this important position. Greenstein won the Paul M. Fitts Education Award in 2020 from the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. In his nomination letter one student wrote: “Dr. Joel Greenstein has received Clemson University’s Industrial Engineering Professor of the Year so many times that the honor has picked up a colloquial nickname of the ‘Joel Greenstein Award ’”.

Imtiaz Haque

In service to the Emeritus College, Haque has led numerous bird walk programs for the Emeritus faculty. He has co-developed a non-credit course on birding and wildlife photography. Haque also encouraged and planned the Emeritus College’s first, of what the College hopes to be many, overnight adventures in Charleston, S.C. He has provided numerous photographs to the Emeritus College to publish as notecards for Emeritus College faculty. Haque was the founding chair of the Automotive Engineering Department and instrumental in the development of CU-ICAR.

Laura Shick

In service to the Emeritus College, Schick is a member of the Prison Interest Group. Her approach is to help by doing, not just asking. Shick reaches out to see what the next steps are. In doing so, she was part of the original task force that developed the first symposium that brought colleges and universities together from across the state to explore how we might serve incarcerated individuals. Shick was also a major contributor to the Memories and Moments: Reflections of Emeritus College Faculty.

Sam Wang

Wang serves on the Program and Planning Committee. He was instrumental in re-conceptualizing the space used by the Emeritus College for special interest groups. Wang also leads a special interest group on photography. He was also instrumental in the publication Memories and Moments: Reflections of Emeritus College Faculty. Without Wang, half of the images would not have met the requirements for the publication. In service to Clemson University, Wang continues to mentor graduate students by serving on masters and doctoral committees.

Steve Wainscott

Stephen Wainscott In service to the Emeritus College, Wainscott currently serves as a member of the Emeritus College Advisory Board. He also chairs the Program and Planning Committee. In that role he has developed several new initiatives including a virtual travel program. In this program, faculty, current and emeritus share their experiences and travel with recommendations for special “not to miss” sites, itineraries that work and even hotel and food ideas. Wainscott’s enthusiasm for future programs helps keep the Emeritus College current and interesting for its members.

Dr. Debbie Jackson, Director of the Emeritus College was selected as this year’s recipient.  Dr. Robert Hogan, Chair of the Emeritus College’s Awards Committee made the announcement at the college’s annual Emeritus Day. This award was established by the late John Kenelly to recognize emeritus faculty members who have made outstanding contributions to Emeritus College, Clemson University, the greater Clemson community and to society. 

Debra Jackson contributions include serving as the Emeritus College Director since January of 2019. During her tenure programming has increased by more than 60 percent. During COVID, Jackson switched programming to virtual sessions. Today, programs continue in a hybrid format, allowing Emeritus College members to participate remotely. Under her leadership, donations continue to increase, and new programs continue to be added to the long list of Emeritus College offerings. Jackson and her husband Vince have established “The Debbie and Vince Jackson Endowment for Music” allowing the Emeritus College to expand and support musical events. Jackson’s contributions to the Clemson Community include serving as a board member of the Community Foundation of Greater Clemson, Jackson’s contributions to the Clemson Community include serving as a board member of the Community Foundation of Greater Clemson and as the chair for the Grants and Awards committee. For 25 years, Jackson authored a health column in a local newspaper. She continues to serve as a strong advocate for mental health care. At the national level, Jackson served on advisory committees for the American Cancer Society and NIH Digestive Disease Coalitions.

On Tuesday, April 25, 2023, the Emeritus College celebrated its 20^th Anniversary.  The college released its new Memories and Moments:  Reflections of Emeritus College Faculty book, essays written by 80 emeritus faculty about their experiences at Clemson University.  The front cover was designed by Donna Reiss, Professor Emerita of English, while the back photograph was contributed by Sam Wang, Alumni Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Visual Arts.  Vicki Gillis, Debbie Jackson, Kathy Headley and Marty Duckenfield served as the editors for the project. A special thank you to the faculty who contributed to Moments and Memories.  A plan for volume two is underway, so if you have an idea for a story, look for an opportunity to include your essay.

Holley Ulbrich, Alumni Distinguished Professor Emerita of Economics,   draws on her experience as a teacher, policy analyst, and community leader  (especially in the League of Women Voters at the state and local levels) and degrees in economics and theology in her most recent book, Passionately Moderate: Civic Virtues and Democracy. Available on Amazon Kindle Store in either paperback or digital format.  Dr. Ulbrich’s publication is another example of the productivity and success of our emeritus faculty.

The reviews are in, and it seems everyone really enjoyed the trip to Charleston for birding, viewing the wind turbine test facility, and visiting the Hunley submarine restoration. Oh yeah, we ate some great seafood, and engaged in some spirited shopping for antiques, art and souvenirs as well. The weather was near perfect, not many insects to bother us and the hotel and local people we met were very friendly.

One of the favorite locations we visited was the Awendaw Avian Conservation Center where we saw hawks and owls, some free flying and landing just above our heads. Pretty cool. Some folks said their favorite bird was the Burrowing Owl that ran in and out of the nesting mound created for her. The birds were close enough for us to touch and folks got some beautiful photos. A special thank you to Michael Drews for arranging this wonderful trip to the Avian Conservation Center.

Imatiaz Haque arranged a great tour of Clemson in Charleston which includes the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (home of the wind turbine drive train testing and e-grid), the Zucker Family Graduate Education Center, and the Warren Lasch Conservation Center.  

The research conducted related to wind energy and the electrical grid is phenomenal.  The size and scope of the machinery is impressive.  The construction of the facility to house the drive train was amazing.  The Hunley submarine restoration is nearing completion with a fantastic museum and observation area displaying this amazing historical artifact at the conservation center.   

We even had an off-the-grid tour of the lab area where restoration occurs and saw a 4,000-year-old Roman iron ingot recovered from the Mediterranean Sea. 

The graduate education building was beautiful and we were able to talk with faculty in the Digital Production Art and see their labs and work.  Graduate students in DPA and electrical and computer engineering have opportunities in Charleston that are not available anywhere but there.  A special thank you to our guides as well:  AJ Powell, Campus and Event Manager;  Meredyth Crichton, Executive Director of the Dominion Energy Innovation Center; Jim Tuten, Capital Projects and Facilities; Eric Patterson, Associate Professor and Director of DPA; and Stéphanie Cretté Director of the Warren Lasch Conservation Center.

Many thanks to Debbie, Imtiaz and Mike for the great adventure. If you have ideas for future trips please let Debbie know.

Dr. Joan Bobbitt McLaughlin (1945-2023) Professor Emerita of English and Humanities died December 19, 2023.  Joan was a first-generation college student. She fell in love with reading at an early age, and a love of literature persuaded her to major in English. She earned her Bachelor’s degree with honors in English from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana. She then pursued her Master’s degree at Louisiana State University at New Orleans (LSUNO). There, while also earning honors, she studied Old English and taught freshman English. She shared her affection for New Orleans with her family, her friends, and her students, explaining that those years in the city were among the best and most influential in her life in terms of culture, art, theater, and music. Success at LSUNO led her to the University of Texas at Austin, where she received her PhD in English. Her literary interests included Victorian novels, but she ultimately wrote her dissertation on the modernist novels of D.H. Lawrence.  Joan went on to become a professor of English and Humanities at Clemson, where she was one of the first women working in a mostly male department. Notably, she advocated for equal rights for women in the workforce during her time at the university. She taught students of every level in undergraduate and graduate-level courses in both departments. An award-winning professor, she was a mentor to many, known for her love of the Victorian novel and her strong, feminist perspectives.  Joan used her skills as an impeccable researcher to contribute to and edit several books by her late husband John J. McLaughlin, including Jefferson and Monticello: The Biography of a Builder (National Book Award finalist) and To His Excellency Thomas Jefferson: Letters to a President. Together, they also co-edited Louisiana Voyages: The Travel Writings of Catharine Cole. Joan was an accomplished author in her own right, with work appearing in Contemporary Literary Criticism, Concerning Poetry, Arizona Quarterly, South Carolina Review, and other periodicals.

Dr. Benjamin Allen Dunn (1941—2023) Professor Emeritus and Director of Forestry and Natural Resources passed on December 25, 2023. Interested in a career that would lead him outdoors, he enrolled in the University of Georgia’s School of Forest Resources where he studied Forestry and served as president of FarmHouse Fraternity. Allen graduated in 1965 receiving his B.S.F. in Forest Resource Management and was simultaneously commissioned a 2^nd Lieutenant in the US Army and was deployed in Vietnam with the Reconnaisssance Platoon of the 2/28^th Infantry Battalion and he served as the Executive Officer of Headquarters Company. In June of 1966, his understrength Recon Platoon was ambushed by the Viet Cong while on what was supposed to be a relatively safe mission, resulting in the entire 16-man patrol being killed. The toughest duty Allen ever performed was identifying the remains of these soldiers who had become his brothers. After leaving the Army, Allen returned to the University of Georgia where he earned his M.F. (1968) and Ph.D. (1971) in Forestry before embarking on a career in academia. He joined Clemson University’s Department of Forest Resources in 1973 and for the next 33 years enjoyed a career in teaching, research, and administration at the University. In addition to being a Professor of Forestry, he served as President of the Faculty Senate from 1990 to 1991, Chair of the Forestry Department from 1994 to 1995, Director of the School of Natural Resources from 1995 to 2001, Associate Dean of the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences from 2001 to 2004, and Director of the Institute of Environmental Toxicology from 2004 until his retirement in 2006. Allen further demonstrated his devotion to education and public service through his work on numerous boards and associations. He was elected to the Pickens County School Board in 1982 and served for 12 years, including several years as Chair. He was a member of the Six Mile Lions Club, served on the Board of the Great Smoky Mountains Association, was active in the Society of American Foresters, served on the South Carolina Forestry Commission, and on the board of the Forestry Association of South Carolina, among others.

Dr. Paul James (Jim) Rathwell (1946—2023) Professor Emeritus of Agriculture and Applied Economics passed on December 19, 2023.  He graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science degree and completed study at Oklahoma State University with a master’s and PhD in Agriculture and Applied Science. During his career, he worked for USDA, Texas A&M and 28 years at Clemson University as an Agricultural Economist. He also taught economics at Tri-County Technical College after retirement from Clemson. His passion was raising Simmental Cattle on his farm in Six Mile. In 2023, he received Pickens County Cattlemen of the Year honors after producing the highest selling bull in Clemson history in the University’s Bull Test program. Jim loved to adopt people and bring them home to try his wonderful cooking. He earned the title “the pickler” with his amazing variety of homemade pickles, relish, and beets.

Dr. George Emmitt Carter, Jr., (1946-2023),  Professor Emeritus of Plant Pathology and Physiology and former Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies, passed away on November 25, 2023. Dr. Carter earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wake Forest University before graduating with a PhD in plant pathology and physiology from Clemson University. He spent the next 36 years at Clemson first as a professor, and then in administration as Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies until he retired. Dr. Carter was an avid fly fisherman, golfer, photographer, bike rider, ACC football official and overall sports enthusiast. Most of all he was a devoted husband, father, granddaddy, and loyal friend. He was well known for his stories which were always filled with humor and wit as well as bragging about his beloved grandchildren.

Lieutenant Colonel Wesley Witcher, Ph.D. (1923-2023), Professor Emeritus of Plant and Environmental Sciences at Clemson University, passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2023. In 1947, Dr. Wesley entered VPI at Blacksburg, Virginia in General Agriculture. In the summer of 1947, he worked with the National Forest Service in Troy, Montana. He graduated from VPI with a Bachelors in Forestry and Wildlife. He then taught in the Pittsylvania County school system for two years and worked with veterans in the area. From 1954-1956, he worked as an Assistant Country Agent in Halifax County Virginia, as a tobacco specialist. In 1956, he returned to VPI, earning a Master’s in Plant Pathology. He next attended NC State in Raleigh, North Carolina, obtaining a PhD in Plant Pathology. In June 1960, he joined the faculty of the Clemson University Department of Botany and Bacteriology, which later became the Department of Plant Pathology. He taught classes, researched, and worked in the Forestry Department. He retired from Clemson in 1988. He was a member of several Scientific organizations and worked for 17 years with Crop Pest regulatory service. He was also a registered Forester in-South Carolina.

Fred J. Stutzenberger, Jr., Ph.D. (1940—2023) Professor Emeritus of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Dr. Stutzenberger was a highly regarded educator who dedicated his life to teaching and inspiring young minds. Born on November 10, 1940, in Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Stutzenberger’s passion for learning began early in life. He attended the Kentucky Military Institute, where his uncle Albert Stutzenberger served as one of his teachers and a mentor in life. He pursued his higher education at Bellarmine University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in science. He went on to obtain his master’s degree from the University of Houston before earning his PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Medicine from Michigan State.  Dr. Stutzenberger’s career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to the field of microbiology and molecular medicine. His research resulted in numerous published articles in various reputable magazines. As a result of his dedication to both teaching and scientific exploration, he became a respected figure within the academic community. Fred was an accomplished author who has been published hundreds of times in microbiology research publications and national shooting sports magazines over many decades. His novel, “Akisni the Healer” is being published now and he will continue to have new articles printed in Muzzle Blasts for years to come. Dr. Stutzenberger’s life was also marked by his military service as a Lt. Colonel in the United States Navy under the United States Public Service during the Vietnam War. Fred served as a scout master for 27 years, in which he mentored dozens of young men, including his own son throughout the years.  The impact Dr. Fred J. Stutzenberger, Jr. had on his colleagues, students, friends, and family cannot be overstated. His dedication to knowledge and his genuine love for teaching served as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 Dr. Robert “Bobby” McCormick, PhD (1946-2023) Professor Emeritus and Dean of Economics. McCormick graduated from Clemson with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1972 and a master’s in environmental economics in 1974, he earned his Ph.D. in economics from Texas A&M in 1978 and came to Clemson to serve vital roles in some of Clemson’s proudest achievements as an institution.  McCormick served as a faculty member in economics at Clemson from 1982-2007, and he became dean of the College of Business in 2014, serving until 2018. McCormick was awarded several Clemson University teaching awards, including the Prince Innovative Teacher of the Year (1998), the Alumni Professor of the Year (2000), the MBA Professor of the Year and the National Scholars Mentor Award (2004 and 2006).  In 2005, McCormick co-founded the Clemson Institute for the Study of Capitalism (CISC), which works with students, the academic community and the public to increase awareness of capitalism’s core principles and institutions. It is the first and only university-based research and teaching center devoted to exploring capitalism’s moral, legal, political and economic foundations. For his lifetime commitment to serving Clemson University, McCormick was honored with the Clemson Medallion in 2022. The Clemson Medallion is the highest honor conferred by Clemson University.

James “Jim” Roland McDonell PhD ( 1949—2023 ) Professor Emeritus of Youth, Family and Neighborhood Life.   Jim was a graduate of Methodist College, UNC Chapel Hill and received his doctorate from Columbia University, New York.   After an early career start at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, Jim joined the Institute for Families in Society at the University of South Carolina (1996-2000). He then moved to Clemson University, where he was a professor and founding member of the Institute on Family & Neighborhood Life and help to establish a PhD in International Family & Community Studies, taught graduate courses, mentored numerous graduate students, and was an active researcher. His research examined neighborhood indicators of child safety and family well-being, focusing on risk and protective factors for child maltreatment, adolescent dating violence, and teen pregnancy. The value of his scholarship was recognized by scholars and community organizations. In 2004, the Chapter of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children named him “Researcher of the Year.” He served as Director of the Institute on Family & Neighborhood Life from 2012 until his retirement in 2017. Upon retirement, Jim became an enthusiastic RV’er. He and Shirley traveled all over the world. Jim enjoyed many hobbies, some of which include hiking, camping, UNC basketball, rock collecting, and book collecting. 

Christopher “Chris” William Foreman, MS (1947—2023), Emeritus College affiliate member, CCIT Retired, made his transition into the Light on Saturday July 29, 2023. Christopher was born September 17, 1947, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania to Martha Jane Fish Foreman and Victor Godfrey Foreman, both educators. Most of his childhood was spent in Bucks County, PA. He received an Associate degree in Electronics from Mercer Community College before receiving his undergraduate degree in Computer Science from Salisbury State University in Maryland. He worked briefly at the Wallops Island Flight Facility in Virginia. He often shared an experience while at Wallops of being able to tweak an algorithm that tracked jets to help them land more quickly. Some colleagues told him it couldn’t work, but he persisted and eventually succeeded. Later Christopher went on to Clemson University to pursue his Master’s degree in Mathematics and Computer Science. The majority of his professional career was at Clemson: first as a mainframe programmer and then as the automation engineer for the University Building Access Control System. His “can-do” mindset and determination helped establish a system in the late ‘90s that is ahead of systems in many universities today. Those who worked with him enjoyed his warm spirit and insistence on meeting over quality lattes. Over the years many of his coworkers were pulled into his various mountain biking adventures.

Farrell Blenn Brown, Ph.D. (1934—2023) Professor Emeritus of Chemistry and Associate Dean of the Graduate School, retired from Clemson University in 1997. Dr. Brown completed his doctorate at the University of Tennessee in 1962.  He was awarded a Welch postdoctoral Fellowship at Texas A&M.  In the fall of 1963, he began a 34 year career at Clemson University.  He taught chemistry at Clemson moving from assistant to full professor with tenure,  prior to joining the academic staff in the Graduate School, serving as associate dean. He spent two years as an interim dean (1995-97) until his retirement. He developed several important relationships that promoted enrollment of international students. He served the Emeritus College in his retirement as a member of the Advisory Board, Policy and Curriculum Committees. In addition, Dr. Brown was a mentor for the Conversations with International Students program, assisting numerous international students enrolled at Clemson.

Joseph “Joe” F. Dickey, Ph.D. (1934—2023) Professor Emeritus of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, passed away on June 7, 2023, at the age of 89. In addition to serving as Alumni Distinguished Professor of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Dr. Dickey was also an Alumni Master Teacher. He served on the Emeritus College Advisory Board from 2013 to 2015 and was a mentor for the Emeritus College (now the International Office) Conversations with International Students. Joe, as a professor of animal, dairy, and vet science. delighted in comparing the human body to animal bodies and the functioning of our organs. He understood much about people because of his work and love of the farm and its animals. He served in the United States Army from 1956-59, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. He served in the 82nd Airborne Division. Joe was instrumental in his nurture of college students along with his wife Ann who predeceased him. Together they entertained masses of college students in their home and created a sense of community that gave those students a sense of place and joy. Dr. Dickey earned his bachelor’s degree from North Carolina State. Following his Army service, he earned his master’s degree at North Carolina State before earning his Ph.D. from Penn State University. He taught at Clemson for 29 years before he retired in 1994.

Raymond Connell Sawyer, Ph.D. (1943—2023) Emeritus Centennial Professor of Performing Arts was born in Lemoyne, Pennsylvania on September 28, 1943 to Gladys Myers Sawyer and Raymond Westfield Sawyer, Jr.  Ray obtained an undergraduate degree from Shippensburg University; a Master’s degree from University of Washington, Seattle; and he received his PhD from the University of Illinois.  Ray and his wife Sharon moved to Clemson, South Carolina, where Ray taught in the department of Performing Acts at Clemson University for 31 years.  Although Ray had many accolades during his tenure at Clemson, one notable accomplishment was his production of the play “American Buffalo,” which was chosen from hundreds of plays to be performed at the Kennedy Performing Arts Center in Washington, DC, as well as at Piccolo Spoleto in Charleston, South Carolina.  The proceeds of the show helped establish a scholarship for aspiring actors and actresses at Clemson University Performing Arts Center.  Ray was a mentor for his students and stayed in contact with some of them until his death.  Ray’s abilities extended beyond being a gifted director and teacher.  He was accomplished at adjudicating, critiquing, and all other aspects of playwriting.  He did not write as much as he would have liked, as he always put the emphasis on his students’ work rather than his own.  This was Ray’s way- always putting others before himself.

Marian Hull Withington, MLS (1930-2023) Professor Emerita of Libraries a graduate of the University of South Carolina, she served as a secretary with the U.S. Department of Air Force at Donaldson Air Force Base in Greenville. She subsequently went on to work at the U.S. Department of State in Bonn, Germany, the American Embassy in Cairo, Egypt and in Washington, D.C. She received a master’s degree in Library Science from Florida State University and was a Reference Librarian for Social Sciences and Humanities at Clemson University from 1964 until her retirement in June 1990. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Greenville Historical Society, and Boscobel Golf Club. For Ms. Withington’s obituary, please see the following: https://thomasmcafee.com/obituary/?first-name=Marian+&last-name=Withington&obit-search=true .

Carolyn Ezell Foster, MA (1925—2023) Professor Emeritus of English died on April 15, 2023, having just celebrated her 98^th birthday. Carolyn held two master’s degrees: one in journalism from Emory University and one in English from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She also had an undergraduate minor in math and said that she particularly loved teaching that subject. She taught for over forty years in many locations – North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Oregon, and California. She spent over fifty years in research, writing, and editing. She moved to Clemson in 1985.  She edited a three-volume series of the lectionary readings used for children’s services at Holy Trinity, as well as at many other churches.

Joseph Leo Gaddis, PhD (1940—2023) Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering on March 14, 2023. After receiving BS and MS degrees in Mechanical Engineering from New Mexico State University, he earned a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin in 1969. Leo worked for LTV Aerospace Corporation in Dallas during the Apollo program where he engaged in advanced spacecraft thermal analysis and spray-flash evaporator technology. He joined the Mechanical Engineering faculty of Clemson University in 1972 where he taught and performed research for 34 years. Leo had many diverse interests including classical music, fly-fishing, physics, baseball, woodworking, handball, travel, and time spent with family and friends. A talented musician, Leo enjoyed singing and playing French horn in local choral and orchestral groups. He was a founding member of Clemson Presbyterian Church, where he used his talents to serve. Memorial services will be at 1pm on Saturday, April 1, 2023, at Clemson Presbyterian Church. The family will greet friends at the church immediately following the service. Surviving are his wife, Jeanie, of 63 years; son, Benjamin Gaddis (Evelyn) of Clemson, SC; daughter, Ettamarie West (Doug) of Arden, NC; brother, William R. Gaddis, Jr. (Linda) of Round Rock, TX; and sister, Wanda Lee Richardson of El Paso, TX. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. For Dr. Gaddis’ obituary, please see the following: https://obits.robinsonfuneralhomes.com/joseph-gaddis. 

Nelson, Robert Bauld, Jr., PhD (1931–2023) Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering on February 22, 2023. After graduating from Victory High School in 1949, he served in the U.S. Army in the Big Red One Division, stationed in Germany. In addition to his duties as a serviceman, he was selected to pitch for the Army’s baseball team that traveled to various U.S. military bases throughout Europe. Following his service, he attended West Virginia University on the GI Bill where he received his bachelor and master degrees in mechanical engineering. He was awarded his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois-Champaign-Urbana in 1963 and joined the faculty of Clemson University later that same year. He retired from teaching in 1989. In retirement, he wrote an instructional book Mechanics of Materials for undergraduate engineering students that was adopted by numerous institutions. Among his many sources of pride and joy were the successes and friendships of his many graduate students along with special research projects with NASA and Langley Air Force Base.  For Dr. Bauld’s obituary, please see the following: https://obits.robinsonfuneralhomes.com/nelson-bauld-jr

Judith  Melton, PhD (1941 – 2023) Professor Emerita of German and Women’s Studies, died on February 8, 2023, just short of her 82^nd birthday, from congestive heart failure due to complications of heart disease.  Judy joined the faculty at Clemson in 1972 after teaching German for several years at the University of Tulsa.  A pioneer in curriculum development, Judy co-founded the Language & International Trade program.  She also co-founded and taught in the Women’s Studies Program and was responsible for creating the Women’s Studies minor which has since evolved into the Woman’s Leadership major.  In 1988 she worked with History professor Don McKale to author Rewriting History: The Original and Revised World War II Diaries of Curt Prufer, Nazi Diplomat. Ten years later she was the single author of The Face of Exile: Autobiographical Journeys (1998), a monograph about German writers who fled Nazi Germany. This research led to the creation of a course Literature and the Arts of the Holocaust which she team-taught with Humanities professor Alma Bennett.  As a result of her caring engagement with students and faculty, she received the Class of ’39 Award for Excellence in 1999.  Judy served several administrative roles during her 35-year career at Clemson.  She was associate department head and then department head of the Language Department as well as coordinator of Women’s Studies.  From 2000 to 2007, Judy served as the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies in the College of Architecture, Arts & Humanities. In addition, Judy served on the board of the Modern Language Association.

Judy Melton retired in December 2007 and later moved to Tryon, NC. A member of the Ohara School of Ikebana where she achieved the highest certification as a teacher of Japanese flower arranging, she eventually became the head of the entire North American chapter of the Ohara School, traveling to Japan and for many years teaching classes, organizing, and participating in exhibitions, and editing the chapter newsletter.  Judy was not only a distinguished professor and woman but a wonderful friend and listener with a quick wit. She loved a cold diet coke (preferably with lemon) and engaging conversation. Judy is survived by her niece, Julie Melton Nations, along with many great and great-great nieces and nephews as well as a multitude of loving friends.

William Pierce “Bill” Yates, Sr. PhD (1943 – 2023), Extension Program Coordinator, Retired and member of the Emeritus College. Bill graduated from Clemson University in 1967 and started to work for Clemson Extension Service as an assistant County Agent. After a year in Chesterfield County, Uncle Sam called, and Bill went to Navy Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. He served about a year of active duty then served as a reserve officer for a total of 20 years. He retired as a Commander in The US Navy Reserve. After his active Navy service he returned to the Clemson Extension Service and graduate school. Bill really enjoyed his different jobs with Clemson Extension because it provided an opportunity to enjoy life and help improve the lives of his fellow man. Dr. Yates retired from Clemson after 30 years. For Dr. Yates ‘obituary, please see the following: https://obits.robinsonfuneralhomes.com/william-pierce-bill-yates.