Clemson University’s board of trustees gathered Wednesday morning to announce Kevin Guskiewicz as the school’s 16th president. The announcement comes after a months-long search following the retirement of former President James P. Clements at the end of 2025.

Guskiewicz currently serves as president of Michigan State University, a position he has held since March 2024. He previously served as the chancellor of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill from 2019 to 2024.

Guskiewicz earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from West Chester University, a master’s degree in exercise physiology and athletic training from the University of Pittsburgh and a Ph.D. in sports medicine from the University of Virginia.

He was also inducted into the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Hall of Fame in 2020 for his research on sport-related concussions.

“In his previous leadership roles at Michigan State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Dr. Guskiewicz developed an impressive record that included innovative student success initiatives, programs that strengthen communities across the state, groundbreaking research and record-breaking fundraising campaigns,” said trustee Cheri Phyfer, who led Clemson’s Presidential Search Committee.

“Beyond his academic credentials, Dr. Guskiewicz brings authenticity, steadiness and a genuine kindness to his leadership style,” she continued. “In his time with us, he spoke with admiration for Clemson’s remarkable trajectory over the past two decades and demonstrated a sincere appreciation for the Clemson Experience. He brings both vision and humility to the role, and we are confident his leadership will guide us to even greater heights.”

Guskiewicz’s contract is for five years, with a base compensation of $1.216 million, of which $884,468 is paid by the Clemson University Foundation. With positive performance reviews, the Foundation’s compensation can increase by $50,000 per year, and incentive compensation for annual goals and metrics can reach up to $250,000, also paid by the Foundation.

“I am deeply honored and incredibly grateful to accept the opportunity to serve as Clemson University’s 16th president,” Guskiewicz said. “To be entrusted with leading a university as respected, ambitious and beloved as Clemson is both humbling and inspiring. Over the course of my career in higher education, I have always believed that universities have the power and responsibility to transform lives and shape the future of communities, locally, nationally and abroad.”

“To Clemson students, you are the reason we are here,” he later said. “Your curiosity, energy, creativity and determination will shape the future of this University and the world beyond it, and I promise to listen to you, to support you and champion your success every step of the way. We will always be strategic, bold and student-focused.”

Guskiewicz also shared his vision for the University under his leadership.

“My vision for Clemson is bold,” he said. “A University that honors its proud traditions while becoming a more forward-looking and globally influential University. A University that continues to elevate academic excellence, expand opportunities, strengthen research and innovation and serve the people of South Carolina and beyond with distinction. Most importantly, a University that never loses sight of its purpose: transforming lives through education, discovery and service.”

This is a developing story. The Tiger will update this article with more information as it becomes available.