Dear Clemson Family,
Another incredible academic year has come to a close and what an amazing year it has been. Last week, we held eight graduation ceremonies where more than 5,000 of our Tigers received their diplomas and have now become our newest Clemson alums. I am excited to see what each of them continues to accomplish as they begin the next chapter of their lives, and I want to thank all of the faculty, staff, friends and family who helped our Tigers throughout their Clemson journey. Earning a degree is a major milestone, and it was an honor to celebrate with each and every one of our graduates during our commencement ceremonies.
Many of our faculty, staff, and alumni have also been highlighted through various award ceremonies over the past few weeks, where their years of expertise and contributions to their fields of study and society have earned them these much-deserved accolades. From being inducted to the Emeritus College and the Thomas Green Clemson Academy of Engineers to receiving major University awards to being recognized at the Research Symposium, which included our Researcher of the Year, congratulations to everyone who has been recognized this year for their significant and positive impact on Clemson University, the state of South Carolina and beyond.
We are also making great progress on our bold strategic plan, Clemson Elevate, and through your commitment and dedication, we are continuing to raise the bar across the University. Recently, we had the honor of hosting Clemson alumna Vanessa Wyche, director of the NASA Johnson Space Center, to sign the Space Act Agreement. We announced our first-ever Academic Cornerstone gift dedicated to supporting Student Affairs and helping to create the #1 Student Experience in the Country. And we hosted our largest-ever Ring Ceremonies this Spring, where more than 2,000 of our students participated in this timeless Clemson tradition.
I am proud of the work we continue to do here at Clemson University. Together, we are elevating our University to new heights, and I know the best is yet to come. Soon we will welcome a new group of Tigers, through various orientations and, for some, a summer start. I know you will embrace our new students and get them engaged in the many academic offerings and activities we have to offer at this great place we call home.
As we head into summer, I hope you make time to rest, recharge and spend time with your loved ones. I look forward to seeing many of you as we get ready for another academic year in the fall. Congratulations again on an outstanding year and Go Tigers!