Marek named Clemson Watt Center executive director

CLEMSON — A Clemson University alumnus with diverse experience in advanced technologies, research and development, and test and evaluation programs has been tapped to lead the center that has been called a “game changer.”

Todd C. Marek, Ph.D. has joined Clemson University as the executive director of the Watt Family Innovation Center.

The executive director reports to the executive vice president for academic affairs and provost and provides oversight on collaboration and facilitation of science and technology actions supporting the university’s colleges. Marek also will support the development and execution of the university’s science and technology vision, strategy and partnership activities.

“Research, technology and collaboration are cornerstones of Clemson’s strategic plan,” said Robert H. Jones, Clemson’s executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Dr. Marek is uniquely suited to provide visionary leadership to the Watt Family Innovation Center, which encourages interdisciplinary collaboration to research and provide solutions to complex issues.”

“Clemson has consistently pursued student engagement as a strategic emphasis,” Marek said. “The Watt Family Innovation Center provides the facilities and programs to foster innovative experiences that prepare students to excel in their chosen field. This is achieved through hands-on collaboration, using the latest technologies and techniques for advanced learning.

“I am honored to be appointed as the new executive director. I’m looking forward to working with Clemson students, faculty and the administration with the support of our industry partners.”

Marek has held leadership positions for the past 18 years at the Scientific Research Corp. in Atlanta. He most recently served as senior vice president for the company’s communications, networks and electronics division. He also worked at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Lincoln Laboratory and North Carolina State University.

Marek provided technical and management oversight for four patents and has participated in continuing education courses at Harvard, MIT and Georgia Institute of technology.

Marek started his new position May 9.

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