James P. Clements

James P. Clements is the 15th president of Clemson University, having assumed the role on December 31, 2013. Under his leadership, Clemson has experienced significant growth in academics, research, and fundraising, including record increases in private donations and student applications.

Prior to joining Clemson, Clements served as president of West Virginia University from 2009 to 2013, where he led major initiatives in fundraising, research expansion, and student enrollment.

Clements holds a Bachelor of Science in computer science and both a Master of Science and Ph.D. in operations analysis from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He also earned a Master of Science in computer science from Johns Hopkins University.

An accomplished academic, he has published over 75 papers in fields including computer science, higher education, and strategic planning. He is also the co-author of a widely used textbook on project management.

Beyond his roles in university leadership, Clements has served on numerous national boards and committees, including the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities and the American Council on Education. He has also been a member of the College Football Playoff Board of Managers.

A first-generation college graduate, Clements is deeply committed to expanding access to higher education and fostering innovation across the academic landscape.