Dear Faculty and Staff,
The Spring semester is well underway, and even with challenging winter weather, it has been energizing to see our faculty, staff and students active and engaged across campus. I know how much hard work and dedication go into keeping our University running every day, and I am sincerely grateful for all that you do.
This past year brought significant challenges for universities across the country, including Clemson. We worked through those headwinds systematically, with a strong focus on our land-grant mission of education, research and service. One of higher education’s most complex challenges was the uncertainty surrounding evolving federal funding policies, including research. Also, expenses were poised to outpace revenues, which is a pressure currently facing almost every institution of higher learning. Today, we have greater clarity regarding these challenges, which will help us finish fiscal year 2026 in a strong position and plan for success in the years ahead.
I am pleased to share that our intentional work to manage expenses – through strong policies, careful procedures and a proactive approach – is making a real difference in the University’s financial future. This is a direct result of your diligence, discipline and responsible stewardship. We know that holding back funds creates challenges. But because of your commitment and partnership, Clemson remains financially strong and stable.
Because of this progress, we are now in a position to responsibly ease certain restrictions. In planning our path ahead, we received valuable feedback from faculty and staff that has helped to prioritize spending plans going forward. We will be releasing sequestered funds in key areas such as research start-up funds, professional development funds and indirect cost recoveries. College and division leadership will create implementation plans that will vary between units. In the coming weeks, division and college leadership will share more about what these updates mean for your area.
As we make these adjustments, it is important to note that we are releasing sequestered funds within units – not adding “new dollars.” Our financial reality continues to require agility and disciplined expense management as we move forward. This reflects the broader environment facing higher education today.
This is a period of transition for our sector, and Clemson will continue taking strategic, forward-looking steps, rather than returning to previous spending models. We remain committed to managing our resources with care.
Once again, thank you for all that you do for Clemson University, the state of South Carolina and future generations of Tigers. Together, I am confident we will ensure Clemson remains financially strong for the next 136 years – and that we will continue to lead the way Fiercely Forward.
Sincerely,
Robert H. Jones, Ph.D.
Interim President, Clemson University
