A leader at Clemson for more than two decades, Brett Wright retires from University

The Clemson community has known Brett Wright, Ph.D., as an impactful, fair and kindhearted leader.

Wright has held numerous roles at Clemson during his 22-year tenure at the University. He started as chair of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (PRTM) where he served for twelve years. Following that, Wright was asked to serve as dean of the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS), which he did for four years. In most recent years, Wright has served as special assistant to the provost and director of both the Tigers United University Consortium and Robert H. Brooks Sports Science Institute (RHBSSI) for more than a decade each.

In a letter to Wright read aloud at a retirement celebration, President Clements said, “Your collaborative approach to leadership, education and global engagement has directly supported Clemson University’s vision of remaining one of the nation’s very best public research universities. But your work extends far beyond our main campus. You have spent your career identifying and solving global problems while redefining what it means to say, “Go Tigers!”

Clemson Celebrates Wright

On April 30, the Clemson community came together at the Clemson Outdoor Lab to celebrate Wright’s retirement.

Provost Bob Jones, former CBSHS Dean Larry Allen, current CBSHS Dean Leslie Hossfeld, COB Dean Wendy York, PRTM Chair Bob Barcelona, Senior Associate Athletic Director Kyle Young and RHBSSI Interim Director John DesJardins spoke to Wright’s accomplishments.

“I was honored to have such influential Clemson leaders and dear friends join us at the event, and I am proud to have worked alongside them for many years,” noted Wright.  

Though retiring, Wright plans to continue collaborating with colleagues on various ongoing projects both domestic and abroad.  

Programs in Great Hands

Wright will be passing on his leadership roles with the Tigers United University Consortium and Robert H. Brooks Sports Science Institute to Rob Baldwin, Ph.D., and John DesJardins, Ph.D., respectively. Baldwin and DesJardins began leading program operations early in 2024.

“The provost selected two very capable individuals to carry forward the missions of these Clemson organizations, and I am confident they will do great things,” said Wright.

“As interim director of the Robert H. Brooks Sports Science Institute, I am very grateful to Brett for his leadership and mentorship,” reflected DesJardins. “He has positioned the Institute for strong and vibrant growth and impact in the years to come, and he will be missed by all of our constituents.”

Wright officially retires from Clemson on May 15, 2024.