Over the past few weeks, The Tiger has been reaching out to leaders across Clemson to ask them to write letters to the class of 2030. The Tiger collected 14 letters from 14 leaders, ranging from the University’s executive leadership team to the dean of each college, the director of Clemson Athletics and the city of Clemson’s mayor.
Clemson would not be the incredible place it is today or the special family it continues to be without these leaders, who exemplify pillars of service, leadership, scholarship and character in the roles they hold on and off campus. I hope these letters serve as a source of inspiration, advice and insight into how their respective departments, colleges and fields can shape the journeys that lie ahead for each and every one of you. And if you ever have the opportunity to meet one or multiple of these individuals, absolutely take it!
Letters from Clemson University’s Executive Leadership
Clemson University Interim President — Robert Jones
Welcome to Clemson University! I hope you are excited to visit your future home away from home where you will have an amazing experience and make lifelong memories with new friends. I am glad you are here for summer orientation! If you are little nervous about starting your journey as a Tiger, not to worry! You will find yourself among a friendly group of fellow “Class of 2030” students who will quickly make you feel at home.
You are about to begin your academic journey at one of the best public research universities in the country, where you will learn from our world-class faculty and engage with our dedicated staff. We are all committed to providing the No. 1 student experience. I encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities available to you. Interact with your future classmates, explore and ask questions, learn about all the resources available to you, plan to join a social or service organization, connect with Clemson through social media and — most importantly — support each other as fellow Tigers.
I once sat in your shoes as a newly accepted Clemson student. I eventually earned Clemson bachelor’s and master’s degrees, then years later came back to serve as Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost for 11 years, and I will be retiring from Clemson as the President — a position I never dreamed would happen when I started as an undergraduate student. For me, and for hundreds of thousands of living alumni, Clemson University has become a special place in our hearts.
You are already a valued member of the Clemson Family and the greater Clemson Community, so wear the Tiger Paw with pride knowing that you are the newest keepers of our values and traditions.
I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer. Before you know it, you’ll be back here for New Student Convocation. Get ready to start your Clemson Experience and Go Tigers!
Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost — J. Cole Smith
Welcome to the Clemson University family and to Ready, Set, Roar! The Clemson Family has over 200,000 living alumni, and in my own travels, I see Tiger Paws and Clemson class rings all over the world. And now, with your arrival, the Clemson Family just got even stronger.
At Clemson, we often say that we prepare students for meaningful careers and successful futures after graduation. While that is certainly true, the real credit belongs to you, the student. Your effort, determination, curiosity, and willingness to show up, take risks, and grow are what ultimately shape your success. During this orientation experience, we hope you will begin to discover the countless opportunities Clemson provides to help you thrive academically, socially, and personally.
As you begin your journey at Clemson, we invite you to embrace the values that define our Clemson community: integrity, respect, diversity, patriotism, excellence, and self-reliance. These values are shared by Clemson University’s Board of Trustees and its leadership, including my own office.
Most importantly, please know this: you belong here at Clemson, exactly as you are. Your unique experiences, perspectives, and talents are what make our community stronger.
As a proud Clemson graduate myself, I take more pride than you might imagine in welcoming you to the same school that shaped my own life many years ago. I am excited to see the amazing things that you will accomplish during your time here. Go Tigers!
Vice President for Student Affairs — Doug Hallenbeck
Welcome to Clemson University. It is an exciting time as we welcome our newest group of Tigers to campus. We are thankful you have chosen this great University to be your home.
Be proud to be part of the Clemson Family! This year, we received nearly 67,000 applications from talented students across the country and around the world, making this one of the most competitive applicant pools in our history. Your hard work, leadership and potential stood out.
As you spend time on campus, I hope you quickly discover that Clemson’s culture and community are truly different. We care deeply about our students and the experience they have here. That commitment is reflected in our outcomes — we retain 94 percent of first-year students and graduate 88 percent within six years. We take seriously the responsibility of supporting and caring for every student who calls Clemson home.
You will learn from world-class educators who are deeply committed to your success both inside and outside the classroom. Within the Division of Student Affairs, our team is equally dedicated to helping you grow through experiences that build leadership, connection and community. Your Clemson experience officially begins with Weeks of Welcome, which starts during Move-In and continues throughout the first six weeks of the semester. These events and opportunities are designed to help you connect with others, learn how to be successful and find your place within the Clemson community.
Our goal is to create the No. 1 Student Experience, and there are countless ways to make Clemson your own — by joining a student organization, participating in intramurals or club sports, serving others or simply meeting new friends in your residence hall. Enjoy the journey ahead. Clemson is a unique place, and we are excited to see all you will accomplish. Please know that my door is always open. If I can ever be of assistance, my office is located on the second floor of Sikes Hall. I wish you nothing but the best as you begin this new chapter. Go Tigers!
Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities — Nicholas Vazsonyi
Dear Incoming Class of 2030:
Welcome to the College of Arts and Humanities, where our motto is “meet the world.” That is what we wish for you during your time with us. We encourage you to travel abroad at some point during your studies, and we also try to bring the world to campus. We emphasize writing and ethics in our courses, and several of our departments focus on pre-law pathways to prep you for the LSAT and law school. Many of our faculty come from Ivy League and other top-flight graduate schools and have become internationally recognized scholars. We bring artists from around the globe to perform at the Brooks Center, and we support Clemson’s first international living-learning center, Passport, to foster language learning and cultural interaction. If you have musical talents, please come join one of our choirs or instrumental groups, or even Tiger Band. It’s a chance to express yourself and connect with fellow students outside your major. Also, be sure to make space in your course schedule for classes in the humanities — such as literature, languages, history or philosophy — that will help you learn not only how to thrive in your career but to think about some deeper questions, examine how you intend to live your life and make a positive difference with those near and dear to you, and in the wider world.
Dean of the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences — Leslie Hossfeld
Class of 2030,
I am delighted to welcome you to the Clemson Family, and I look forward to the role the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences will play in your academic journey!
Over the next four years, you will learn from outstanding faculty and have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences, conduct research, explore new ideas and discover passions that will shape the course of your future. You will be challenged in ways that will expand your perspective, sharpen your critical thinking and prepare you for opportunities far beyond the classroom. I encourage you to embrace every moment.
Clemson is more than an academic institution — it is a place where you will find your voice, strengthen your confidence and uncover your potential. As you begin this new chapter, remember you are surrounded by a community that believes in your success and is committed to helping you thrive.
Many of you will take courses in CBSHS during your time at Clemson, and my hope is that you will feel inspired to step out of your comfort zones and equipped to accomplish your goals as we build people and communities together.
Best of luck — and go Tigers!
Dean of Clemson Libraries — Christopher Cox
Welcome to Clemson, Class of 2030! During your time on campus, I hope you take time to visit the R.M. Cooper Library — voted the #1 study spot on campus in The Tiger’s Best of Clemson issue for many years running. Did you know that we also have five other libraries to serve you? The Gunnin Architecture Library in Lee Hall, the Education Media Center in Tillman Hall, Special Collections and Archives in the Strom Thurmond Institute and branch libraries at the CU-ICAR campus in Greenville and the Charleston Design Center all have different collections, resources and spaces that are available to our students.
Our collections and online resources are available to you 24/7 on our website (libraries.clemson.edu), and our dedicated team of research librarians is happy to help you find what you need, learn how to conduct and cite research, visualize data, and more. We have more than 3 million physical and electronic items in our collections, from books to journal articles to presentations and papers, and if we don’t have what you are looking for, chances are we can get it for you through Interlibrary Loan. You will also find an AI Literacy and Resources Hub on our website to help you learn about and navigate the unique tools and challenges that AI has brought to higher education.
Want to save money on textbooks? We have those, too, with a collection of more than 100 commonly used textbooks that you can check out for free. We also have a collection of more than 400 technology items available for checkout, such as cameras, recording equipment, tripods, and more, and our Adobe Studio and Makerspace (on the fifth floor of Cooper) has the expertise and the equipment to help you make all of your creative projects a reality.
Your academic success is our top priority, so please do not hesitate to ask questions and seek help — that’s why we’re here! We can’t wait to meet you as you begin your Clemson journey. See you soon! Go, Tigers!
Dean of the College of Education — Kristin Gehsmann
To the Class of 2030,
Welcome to Clemson University! No matter what major you choose, your journey here begins with something important: a belief in the power of education. Teachers, mentors, coaches, family members, and others have helped shape who you are and opened doors along the way. At Clemson, you will encounter even more people who will challenge you, support you, and inspire you to grow.
In the years ahead, you’ll experience the energy and traditions that make Clemson special—from unforgettable Saturdays in Death Valley to hands-on learning, research, service, internships, and friendships that will shape your future. Clemson is a place built around curiosity, discovery, and the pursuit of ideas that improve lives and communities.
As you begin this next chapter, I hope you continue to reflect on the impact education has had on your own life and consider how you might use your talents to make a difference for others. Every day, Clemson graduates strengthen schools, organizations, and industries across South Carolina and beyond. In the College of Education, we are proud to prepare students for meaningful work that changes lives, and we invite you to explore the many opportunities available here, regardless of your career path.
Class of 2030, we are excited you are here. I cannot wait to see the energy, ideas, leadership, and passion you will bring to Clemson University and to the world beyond our campus.
Go Tigers!
Dean of the College of Science — Cynthia Young
Fall is an exciting time at Clemson University as our classrooms and labs fill once again with students. Amid the eventful start of the semester, we reserve particular enthusiasm for welcoming our first-year and transfer students — those of you just embarking on your Clemson journey.
No matter where your interests take you — whether chemistry, genetics, data analytics, physics, or becoming an MD — we’re thrilled to welcome you to the Clemson University College of Science. We look forward to helping you learn and grow by supporting you with world-class faculty tackling the big scientific challenges of tomorrow and preparing the next generation of scientists to continue their groundbreaking work (that means you!).
The College of Science is committed to providing students the opportunity to combine discovery, learning, and engagement by participating in our high-impact, signature learning experiences through research, internships, entrepreneurship and study abroad programs.
I encourage you to get involved with research alongside our faculty. Intern with one of our industry partners. Invent something for the Catalyst competition (think “Shark Tank”). Study abroad and expand your worldview. Connect with peers through COSMIC — our award-winning peer-mentoring program, or in SCISAB, my student advisory board.
Whatever you choose, the College of Science is ready to help you accelerate your path to getting there.
Welcome — and go Tigers!
Dean of the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences — Anand Gramopadhye
Dear students,
Welcome to Clemson University, and thank you for choosing a major in the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences. We are excited you are here. By earning your place in this strong and selective academic community, you have already demonstrated talent, determination and the potential to make a real impact.
The next few years will challenge you, inspire you and shape your future in ways you may not yet imagine. Clemson is far more than a place to earn a degree. It is a place where you will discover new passions, build lasting friendships that will stay with you for a lifetime and create memories you will always cherish.
Plan early. Work hard. Stay curious. Be happy. Have fun. Make the most of every opportunity.
Your classroom experience will be important, but some of the most meaningful growth will happen beyond the curriculum. I encourage you to immerse yourself fully in University life. Participate in Creative Inquiry and undergraduate research projects. Pursue internships and co-op experiences. Explore study abroad, civic engagement activities, entrepreneurship programs and student organizations. Consider a minor or leadership program that complements your degree and broadens your perspective.
Your courses will challenge you, but you will not face those challenges alone. Our faculty, advisors and staff are deeply committed to your success. Ask questions early, seek help when needed and support one another along the way.
From your very first year, you will have opportunities to learn by doing and to work on projects that address real-world challenges in areas such as healthcare, robotics, energy, advanced materials and computing.
You have chosen a very special place to begin this journey. There is an unmistakable spirit at Clemson, and now you are part of it.
Take pride in that. Dream big, exceed expectations and make the very most of your Clemson experience.
Go Tigers!
Dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Construction — Ece Erdogmus
Dear Clemson students,
Welcome to Clemson University.
As you begin your journey, you are joining a community where ideas move. They are imagined, shaped and brought to life. In the College of Architecture, Art and Construction, our work lives along a continuum. We design, we create, and we build. Each step matters. Each perspective strengthens what comes next.
That includes you.
Whether your path is grounded in art, design, or construction, your voice and your way of seeing the world are essential here. Artists challenge how we think. Designers connect ideas to experience. Builders turn vision into reality. Together, these disciplines do more than coexist. They rely on one another to solve problems, tell stories, and shape communities.
At Clemson, you will learn by doing. You will test ideas, refine your craft and collaborate across disciplines in ways that prepare you for meaningful impact. Our faculty and staff are here to support you as you grow, not only in skill, but in confidence, curiosity and purpose.
You belong in this work. And the world needs you!
I look forward to seeing what you will design, create, and build here and beyond.
Welcome to Clemson!
Dean of the Honors College — Sarah Winslow
To all of our newest Tigers — welcome to Clemson University! We’re thrilled you’re joining our community. And to our incoming Honors College students in particular, we look forward to meeting you during your Honors orientation programs and events.
College offers countless opportunities for growth, connection and discovery — and Clemson provides many ways to become involved both inside and outside the classroom. As you begin your first year, give yourself time to adjust and settle into a routine. Start by committing to a few activities or organizations that genuinely interest you, then expand your involvement as you become more comfortable balancing academics and campus life.
If there is one piece of advice I hope you carry with you during your time here, it’s this: be open to new experiences and perspectives. Try something outside your comfort zone. Spend time with people whose backgrounds, ideas and viewpoints differ from your own. Those moments often shape us in unexpected ways and may even lead you toward goals you had never imagined for yourself — and that’s part of the value of a college education. Learning what does not fit you can be just as meaningful as discovering what does.
As you pursue new opportunities, remember to care for yourself along the way. Academic success is strongest when supported by healthy habits, strong relationships and a sense of balance. Make time for rest, stay connected to others, nourish yourself well and continue doing the things that bring you happiness and purpose.
If you are not currently part of the Honors College, there will be opportunities to apply after beginning your Clemson journey. I encourage you to learn more about the experiences we offer — including interdisciplinary coursework, research and travel funding, service-learning opportunities and a supportive community of scholars — by visiting our website for application information and important deadlines.
Wishing you a year filled with learning, growth and new possibilities. We are excited to have you here.
Dean of the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business — Wendy York
We are excited to welcome you to Clemson University and the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business! Congratulations on reaching this milestone and taking the next step in your academic journey. You should be proud of yourself and all you have accomplished to get to this moment.
Clemson is truly a unique and special place that will support you throughout your time here. At the Powers College of Business, it is our priority to provide every student with the best experience possible. We do this by offering business-focused academics, hands-on experiential learning, innovative Signature Programs and meaningful professional development opportunities.
Though the path to graduation is not easy, we’re here to support your success! I encourage you to make the most of your Clemson Experience and embrace learning opportunities, make connections and enjoy these next years as a student.
Welcome to the Clemson Family and Go Tigers!
Director of Clemson Athletics — Graham Neff
Dear Clemson Newcomers,
My name is Graham Neff, and I am now in my fifth year serving as the Director of Athletics.
On behalf of the Athletic Department, I am proud to welcome you to the Clemson Family! Our University is incredibly unique, and whether you’ve grown up a Clemson fan or are experiencing it for the first time this fall, you’re in for something special.
Our department’s mission is simple: we strive to grow people and community by creating life-changing experiences through athletics.
Varsity athletics at Clemson is a tradition that spans over 130 years, and our rich history and vibrant offerings remain central to creating the number one student experience. We are dedicated to enhancing opportunities for all students at Clemson University. A thriving athletics program creates a tremendous campus atmosphere that defines who we are.
Our athletic events provide a unique opportunity to showcase our collective spirit, unity, and pride. They offer us a chance to cheer on our dedicated student-athletes, experience unforgettable moments, and create lasting memories. The energy and enthusiasm you bring to our stadiums, fields, and arenas make a significant impact on our teams’ performances.
As Clemson students, you have the privilege of attending regular-season home athletic events for free. This is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your Tiger pride, build community, and enjoy some of the nation’s best collegiate sports competition.
Clemson is a place where students receive an exceptional education while supporting an athletics program recognized nationwide. Our teams, across all sports, are known for their commitment to excellence, discipline, teamwork, and leadership—qualities that embody Clemson University’s values.
Each season brings outstanding achievements on and off the field across our 21 varsity programs. Just this past season we saw:
ACC Championships in Gymnastics and Women’s Indoor and Outdoor Track.
NCAA Tournament Appearances in Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Men’s and Women’s Golf, Gymnastics, Lacrosse, Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Softball, Men’s and Women’s Tennis, and a bowl appearance in Football.
Some of the nation’s top future professional athletes with athletes in the NFL, NBA, MLB, and MLS.
A Graduation Success Rate of 96 percent, among the best in the nation.
Our passion should always be displayed respectfully, honoring our opponents, officials, and fellow fans. In creating the best environment possible, I urge you to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and class. Our conduct reflects not only on ourselves but on the entire Clemson community.
Remember: we are not just spectators, but ambassadors of our University. Clemson is known for excellence in academics, athletics, character, and respect.
For the latest information on our programs, download the ClemsonTigers app, follow our teams on social media, and check your email often. Consider joining the IPTAY Collegiate Club, one of the most engaged student groups in the nation, which offers valuable benefits, including football ticket access and priority points upon graduation.
Thank you for your support, and welcome to Clemson!
Go Tigers!
Dean of the College of Veterinary Science — Steven Marks
Welcome to Tiger Town!
On behalf of the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine, welcome to Clemson University and the Clemson Family.
This is an exciting time in Clemson’s history as we prepare to welcome the inaugural class of 80 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) students this August. As South Carolina’s first college of veterinary medicine, we are proud to help shape the future of veterinary education while addressing the growing need for veterinarians across our state and beyond.
The DVM program is a four-year professional degree that prepares graduates for rewarding careers dedicated to animal health, public health and scientific discovery. We are excited to be the newest college in the Clemson Family, and we are glad you’re here, too. We look forward to all you’ll accomplish as part of the Clemson community.
Have a wonderful year, and as always, Go Tigers!
Letter from the city of Clemson
Mayor of Clemson — Robert Halfacre
Welcome to Clemson!
Orientation marks your first step into the Clemson family. We’re so excited to see you here, and I hope you’re every bit as excited to embark on this journey. Remember, no matter where you start out, the Tiger Paws lead all of us back home to Clemson.
As you familiarize yourself with campus, you’ll find incredible opportunities, and you’ll see changes and improvements everywhere. The same is true for our city! There is an enormous amount of activity and so much “good” happening around town. I do hope you’ll notice. Here are a few things you can look out for now and when you return in the Fall:
Recreation: Our parks have made a number of upgrades, including the addition of a new skate park and splash pad at Clemson Park and pickleball courts at Nettles Park (a partnership with the University). Improvements also continue on Abernathy Park, and the Green Crescent Trail is progressing. More miles of trail to come for pedestrians and bikers alike!
Arts/Culture: Near the end of 2027, a new multimillion-dollar Arts Center will open at Nettles Park, with construction currently underway. Until then, from beginners on up, you can register now for fall classes at their facility on Butler Street. And mark your calendars, because Pumpkinpalooza is back again this year – bigger and better than ever! We’ve also been busy sprucing up the city with more public art for you to discover.
Downtown: A new era for downtown Clemson has begun! For the past few months, we’ve been implementing the community-driven plan to transform College Avenue into a more accessible, pedestrian-friendly destination for shopping, dining and year-round enjoyment. Our downtown is not only full of thriving businesses to explore but it is also the heart of our community’s most cherished events, so we’ve committed to having this phase largely completed by the time you return in August.
Orientation is a busy time, but I hope you will take a few moments to explore the City. Then, when you officially move in this Fall, make sure to carve out some afternoons to really explore. As you do, I ask you to practice good stewardship of these amenities and respect for your surroundings as well as all of the families who proudly call this place home year-round. It is all of our responsibility to take care of our city and the people who live, work, and play here.
Most of all, be safe, Tigers, and best of luck this school year!
