Clemson University commemorated the fifth anniversary of the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, marking half a decade since the monumental $60 million gift from Billy and Ann Powers that named the College and catalyzed its rise as a leader in business education.
The two-day celebration, held October 16–17, honored both the Powers family’s legacy and the collective impact of the Clemson Family — alumni, donors, and partners whose ongoing support continues to shape the College’s success. The first evening featured a tribute event, followed by a Friday lineup of a student panel and classroom activations exploring the College’s impact and future-facing initiatives.
“The Powers family’s gift set a new standard for what’s possible at Clemson,” said Brian O’Rourke, Vice President for Advancement. “Their vision went far beyond bricks and mortar — it created an environment where ideas thrive, leaders grow, and innovation drives the future of business. And it’s been the collective support of countless donors who have joined them that continues to propel that vision forward.”
A legacy that fuels future excellence
In 2020, Clemson announced the naming of the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business — a defining moment made possible by the Powers’ transformative gift, which named the College and funded the College’s state-of-the-art twin-building complex. That facility was intentionally designed to support Clemson’s land-grant mission through interdisciplinary collaboration, applied learning and community impact.
President Jim Clements reflected on the ongoing influence of the Powers’ generosity.
“When people hear the name The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, they know the power of that name and the incredible business story and legacy that the Powers have created here in South Carolina. I am so incredibly grateful for all that Billy and Ann Powers have done and continue to do for our great University. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their vision and their amazing generosity.”
Clemson University President Jim Clements
In the years since that gift, the Powers College of Business has earned further distinction. It has been ranked the No. 1 business school in South Carolina. It has also been reaccredited among the top 6 business schools worldwide, positioning Clemson among an elite cohort for global standards of excellence.
Shaping the next generation of leaders
This year’s incoming class statistics reflect the growing interest and confidence in the Powers College of Business. From more than 17,000 applications, 1,179 first-year students were admitted — accounting for 26% of all Clemson University applications. Within that class are 61 Honors College students, 104 Palmetto Fellows, and 513 students from the top 10% of their high school class. These students represent 37 South Carolina counties, 44 states, and 14 countries, underscoring Clemson’s expanding reach and influence. Since 2018, 40,592 students have learned and thrived at the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, made possible with the generous gift.
Dean Wendy York emphasized that the College’s past achievements are foundational to its future ambitions.
“The Powers’ investment launched a new era for business education at Clemson — one that blends purpose with performance,” York said. “As we look ahead, our focus is on expanding access, advancing innovation and deepening partnerships to prepare students to lead in an ever-changing world.”
The next five years: innovation and impact
As the Powers College of Business moves forward, it aims to broaden its signature programs in entrepreneurship, analytics, and other growth areas, while cultivating new opportunities for student success through research, partnerships, and experiential learning. The College’s commitment to faculty-driven applied research will continue to contribute to the economic and social vibrancy of South Carolina and the region.
Billy Powers, reflecting on the College’s trajectory and purpose, offered this message:
“Ann and I wanted to invest in something that would make a lasting difference,” Powers said. “We believed in Clemson’s ability to develop leaders with integrity, creativity, and heart, and it’s inspiring to see that happening every day. The students who walk these halls are the future of business in South Carolina and beyond.”
About the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business
The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business at Clemson University develops innovative, ethical leaders who drive economic and social progress. With nationally recognized programs in accounting, finance, marketing, management, and economics, the College combines academic rigor with experiential learning to prepare students for success in a global marketplace.
