Bittersweet is the perfect word to describe this time of year as graduation rolls around. As we begin our transition out of FY26, I simply want to say thank you to the class of 2026: from those of us returning in the fall, know that you will be missed more than words can express.
Clemson saw a huge change in administrative leadership with the December 2025 retirement of former President James P. Clements. This graduation is the first in 12 years for which he will not be standing on the stage to shake the hands of those receiving their diplomas.
With this change, connectedness to the Clemson family is more important than ever. Graduates, as you embark on your postgraduate journey after your time at Clemson, take with you the knowledge that you will forever have a home here. And even more importantly, that although the place itself is incredibly special, it’s the people who make it.
As it does every year and even each semester, Clemson will look different when we return in the fall, with the absence of you, the current senior class.
As Joe Sherman, class of 1934, once wrote, “If you will but close your eyes and drift awhile, you too will recall the names and faces and personalities of those who meant the most to you while the privilege of being among them was yours.”
What a perfect reminder to be still in this time of immense, inevitable change: at this point, you’re finishing up exams and final projects, you’ve (hopefully) earned the credits and taken the classes, clocked numerous hours in Cooper Library, walked the dikes, eaten ice cream at Spill the Beans, shared laughs and memories with those you love and ultimately, lived your Clemson experience.
Through classes, clubs and organizations, on- and off-campus jobs and so much more, you have all formed relationships with the people around you in one way or another. Allow me to remind you to stay in touch with these people — in my humble opinion, success within your professional career has a world of more meaning when you have a community to surround yourself with.
Take a breath and remember that at some point in your life, you were once in a very similar position you now find yourself — turning the page from one chapter, and stepping through the open door in front of you. Try to embrace the unknown instead of worrying about it — just look at how college worked out!
Now, it wouldn’t be a classic commencement issue opinion article without the cliche, overused quote “don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened.”
With this commencement issue, The Tiger celebrates the graduating class of 2026 — especially our very own seniors, all of whom will leave a legacy at Clemson in their individual ways.
Kat Pugh is a junior English major from Clayton, California. Kat can be reached at [email protected].
