The College of Architecture, Art and Construction has appointed Todd Usher as director of the Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program. A four-time Clemson graduate and nationally recognized builder, Usher brings more than 30 years of industry, entrepreneurial and academic experience to the role.
“Todd brings a rare blend of scholarly research, applied knowledge and real-world leadership,” said Ece Erdogmus, dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Construction. “His focus on sustainable development and stakeholder collaboration will continue to elevate the MRED program’s impact across the region and the nation.”
Usher holds a Ph.D. in planning, design and the built environment, as well as master’s degrees in construction science and management and business administration from Clemson. He is the founder and president of Addison Homes, a Greenville-based firm specializing in high-performance, resilient and sustainable construction. Addison Homes has earned numerous U.S. Department of Energy Housing Innovation Awards under his leadership, along with accolades from the National Association of Home Builders and the U.S. Green Building Council.
“The future of the MRED program is bright,” Usher said. “We’re focused on growing both student enrollment and student opportunities — from increased engagement with the real estate development community to expanded involvement in academic and applied research. We’re also excited to extend our reach to undergraduate students through new course offerings and a potential minor in real estate development.”
Since 2021, Usher has served as a faculty member in the MRED program, teaching graduate courses in construction operations, building systems and sustainable real estate practices. A frequent speaker at national building science and energy efficiency conferences, he also leads Addison Consulting, which supports professionals and organizations working toward high-performance, building science-driven construction standards.
In addition to his business and academic acumen, Usher brings an abiding love for Clemson to his leadership role.
“From my first day on campus as an undergraduate, I understood that there is truly ‘something in these hills,’” he said. “I love the Clemson community and the unique sense of family that connects Tigers everywhere. Whether it’s a surprise ‘Go Tigers!’ in a distant airport or a Clemson ring spotted on a train in Italy, I’m reminded time and again that Clemson is more than a university, it’s a lifelong connection to something special.”
