Clemson University Foundation welcomes three new members to Board of Directors

The Clemson University Foundation (CUF) has announced the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors: Michael “Mike” S. Connor of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Mindy J. Zatto of Atlanta, Georgia; and a new IPTAY representative, John E. “Rett” Rutland, Sr. of Rock Hill, South Carolina. These alumni-connected leaders bring extensive professional experience and a passion for Clemson’s mission to advance student success, academic excellence and research innovation.

Mike Connor is a 1984 graduate of Clemson University with a degree in mechanical engineering and currently serves as a partner at Alston & Bird LLP in the firm’s Intellectual Property Litigation Group. Based in Charlotte, Connor represents clients in complex patent litigation and intellectual property disputes across a wide range of industries from medical imaging to fiber optics. He has been named to The Best Lawyers in America® and ranked consistently in IAM Patent 1000 – World’s Leading Patent Practitioners since 2016.

A long-standing supporter of the University, Connor is a member of the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Science’s (CECAS) Dean’s Leadership Circle and serves on the Department of Mechanical Engineering’s Advisory Board. He and his wife, Dorothy, are parents to three children, including son Paul Connor ’24, who graduated from Clemson as a mechanical engineering major.

Mindy Zatto is founding principal of Strategic Benefits Advisors, an employee benefits consulting firm that serves corporations across the U.S. With more than 30 years of industry experience, Zatto is a recognized leader in retirement plan administration and benefits consulting. She holds a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and computer science from Harvard University and is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, among other professional credentials.

Her connection to Clemson runs deep: Zatto’s late husband, David Reid ’83, was a chemical engineering alumnus and their son, Tyler Reid ’19, earned a degree in industrial engineering from CECAS. In memory of her husband, Zatto established the David H. Reid ’83 Endowed Scholarship and has continued her generous support of the University with gifts to the Science Dean’s Excellence Fund and the Science Faculty Excellence Fund.

Rett Rutland is a 1996 graduate of Clemson University where he received his BS in Mathematics Teaching before getting his master’s degree in Sport Administration from the United States Sports Academy. Since 2005, he has served York County as a State Farm Agent and currently operates two offices, in Rock Hill and in Fort Mill respectively. Rett has served the IPTAY Board for nine years, most recently serving the last six years on the executive committee. He begins a two-year term as President beginning July 1, 2025.

Prior to becoming a State Farm Agent in Rock Hill, Rutland taught and coached in high school in upstate South Carolina. He also serves on the board for both the Boys and Girls Club of York County and the Young Professionals of York County. He is currently Vice Chair of Girls on the Run Tri County. His commitment to Clemson has been strong since his graduation, as he has been an IPTAY member for 28 consecutive years and served as President of the York County Clemson Club. Rutland and his wife Lynn have two boys: John and Julian, who are both currently students at Clemson University.

“In Mike, Mindy, and Rett we are welcoming three exceptional leaders who not only bring deep expertise in their respective fields, but also a profound personal connection to Clemson. Their insight, passion and commitment will be invaluable as we advance our mission to create lasting impact through strategic philanthropy and elevate Clemson’s future.”

Karen McCauley, president and CEO of the Clemson University Foundation

In welcoming these new members, CUF continues to strengthen its commitment to attracting strategic partners who exemplify professional excellence and personal investment in the University’s long-term success to move Clemson University Fiercely Forward. 

Clemson University Foundation

The Clemson University Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) entity organized to promote the welfare and future development of Clemson University. It was chartered in 1933 to support the University’s educational and scientific goals. It is the responsibility of the board of directors to manage and disburse assets prudently within a policy that encourages the enhancement of the resources of the foundation.