By De Anne Anthony, Class of 2014 and Savannah Mozingo, Class of 2015
There was no better way to introduce Clemson’s 15th president to his new home than with the warm welcome he received from various student organizations during his tour of the campus on Sunday, Jan. 13. Undergraduate Student Body President Kayley Seawright organized a walk that included some of the university’s most significant landmarks to engage Clements in the rich history, school spirit and sense of family that brings together Clemson faculty, staff and students.
From listening to groups like Scabbard and Blade expound upon Clemson’s rich military heritage to running down the hill through a tunnel of cheers and shimmying orange and purple pompoms, Clements seamlessly shifted between his role as both a sharp leader and an exuberant family member filled with Tiger pride.
Graciously
At every stop during his tour, Clements greeted each individual with a handshake and an attentive ear as he heard each group offer their excitement and concern for the growth of the university. After every question and answer period, he thanked everyone with a handshake and posed for photographs.
Looking to the Future
While viewing the Greek quad and walking to Fike Recreation Center, Clements spoke with Seawright and Student Senate President Drew Casella about key issues facing campus. At Fike, Clements was greeted by the intramural and club sports organizations. All-American flag football player Christian Bright spoke with the president about the condition of the intramural fields and the desire to have more space and safety features.
Learning from the past
Clements shared the company of former Clemson ROTC instructors, Col. Lance B. Young, Col. Ed DeJulio and Col. Sandy Edge as he walked through the Scroll of Honor Memorial. The three colonels shared various details of the university’s ROTC program and the achievements of the proud young men and women who dedicated themselves not only to the school, but also their country. During his tour of the Woodland Cemetery, Clements learned about the rich history of this resting place from guide Trent Allen, author of Clemson – There’s Something in These Hills, which details the unique history of Clemson University.
Appreciating the present
After his campus tour, Clements relaxed and enjoyed refreshments in the Carillon Gardens with the members of CLEMSONLiVE. When asked for his advice for students who wanted to enter higher education, he responded, “Well, you have to want to make a difference in people’s lives, and care about the impact you will make within students lives and an institution.” He looked around the gardens seeing the interaction between all the students that participated in his welcome tour. “And speaking of impact, I’ve been in higher education for 25 years and I’ve never seen anything like what I experienced today.”
View photos of the president’s tour.
See the What’s Happening at Clemson video that features the president’s tour.
