Clemson University announced the creation of a new Jurist-in-Residence (JIR) program to give students and faculty the opportunity to learn directly from distinguished judges and attorneys.
Judge Gary Clary, retired Circuit Court Judge, former state legislator and longtime Clemson leader, has been named Clemson’s first Jurist in Residence.
The Jurist in Residence program will connect students and faculty with experienced legal practitioners who can share expertise on the law, the legal system, the U.S. Constitution and the foundations of government. Jurists in Residence will:
- Mentor students pursuing careers in law.
- Provide support for the William Howell Pre-Law Society.
- Coordinate with the Center for Career and Professional Development to develop internships and placements related to legal careers.
- Lead seminar-style short courses and collaborate with faculty on for-credit courses.
- Contribute to scholarship on law, government and civic life.
- Support the development of an alumni legal affinity group and a Clemson-sponsored continuing legal education program.
While the position does not carry a faculty rank, Jurists in Residence will be guided by the principles of academic freedom and responsibility consistent with Clemson’s mission as a public research university.
Last July, Clemson’s trustees recognized Judge Gary Clary with a resolution honoring his lifelong service and commitment to Clemson University. Clary, a former State Representative and retired Circuit Court Judge, graduated from Clemson in 1970 with a Bachelor of Arts in history. He served as Circuit Court Judge from 1992-2002 before entering the private sector for four years. He has been a mediator, arbitrator, special referee and special master since 2005, and served three terms in the South Carolina House of Representatives.
In 2021, the Board recommended Judge Clary for the Chief Judge and Director of the University Court, where he has served for the past four years. During his tenure on the court, he, along with current Chief Judge Lindsey Simmons, modernized the court’s operations, moved into a new facility and implemented new processes to expedite cases and clear the docket.
“Clemson is committed to providing our students with opportunities to learn from leaders across professions,” said University Interim President Bob Jones.
“The Jurist in Residence program gives our students who are interested in pursuing law a distinctive way to gain mentorship, professional connections and real-world insight. We are especially proud to welcome Judge Gary Clary as our inaugural Jurist in Residence and look forward to the many benefits that this new program will bring.”
The Jurist in Residence program reflects Clemson’s commitment to deliver the nation’s No. 1 student experience by providing opportunities for mentorship, leadership development and professional growth.
