Dear incoming students:
Now more than ever, I can’t wait to welcome you to Clemson University. Last week’s announcement to move the start of in-person instruction to Sept. 21 was not made easily. It was, however, done based on the latest data and science, and with the health and safety of our students, as well as our employees, in the forefront of our minds.
We know this is not how you expected to begin your Clemson career. These are uncharted waters for higher education – and many aspects of life. We are keenly aware of the strong desire of our students and other members of the Clemson Family to return to some semblance of normal, and I can assure you that is our goal.
Our focus is going to be on making sure you and your classmates get the most out of your Clemson experience from the start. To that end, you will be hearing from all corners of the Clemson community over the next several weeks to introduce you to some of the people, services and programs that make our University so special.
I’m sure you’re aware of the physical beauty of the Clemson campus, but the true beauty of Clemson lies in our people and the energy and commitment devoted to each other’s success.
Our outstanding faculty, passionate staff, our supportive alumni and your fellow students make the Clemson Family uniquely amazing. Please know that we are proud of all that you have accomplished to this point, especially during such a disrupted year, and we are beyond excited about the ways that you will leverage your experiences into changing our world for the better.
And while we can’t physically be together just yet, the passion and engagement within the Clemson community remains high. We are committed to doing everything we can to bring the full breadth of our community and its resources to you to make sure you know you’re a treasured new member of our family.
Over the coming weeks, you’ll have opportunities to attend a virtual student organization open house, hear from academic departments about what to expect in the classroom – virtually and in-person – see current students on social media sharing their experiences, participate in surveys to get your opinion on matters of interest, attend virtual town halls with student leaders and much, much more.
We realize we can’t replicate exactly what it would be like if you were moving into a residence hall in mid-August. We do intend, however, to do everything we can to welcome you to your new home.
I appreciate your patience as we work to minimize the potential for a COVID-19 outbreak at our campuses and protect the most vulnerable, while driving toward the most engaging and enriching Fall semester possible.
I look forward to welcoming you to campus in mid-September and I want you to know how important you are to our University. I hope you will participate in the opportunities we will be offering over the next few weeks to meet some of the great people who will be waiting for you when you get here.
Go Tigers!
Jim Clements
President
