After 12 years of dedicated service to Clemson University through the ClemsonLIFE program, Erica Walters, Ph.D., has stepped down from her role, effective May 1.
Walters joined the University in 2014 as program manager for ClemsonLIFE and was named director in 2024. Prior to Clemson, she spent 15 years as an educator in South Carolina public school systems, serving students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
During her tenure, Walters played a key role in initiatives such as expanding ClemsonLIFE from 20 to 55 students, while continuously training staff and students alike to promote an inclusive campus environment. She also helped advance efforts to promote inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities in national Panhellenic organizations.
These efforts were instrumental in enabling 78 ClemsonLIFE students to join 21 fraternities and sororities. More recently, she contributed to the development of several inclusive study abroad programs with LIFE students visiting Ireland and Costa Rica during their summer breaks.
Walters also helped promote similar post-secondary education programs by supporting student advocacy at the South Carolina State House and serving on local, regional and national advisory boards to advance employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Through her leadership and collaboration with colleagues, students and community partners, Clemson University has become the national leader in inclusive post-secondary education. Dr. Joe Ryan, the Sue Stanzione Distinguished Professor of special education and 2023-24 U.S. Fulbright Scholar to Ireland, is the founder and Executive Director of ClemsonLIFE and will continue to oversee the program.
The experienced staff is fully prepared to continue supporting our students as they progress in their academic, social, and independent living paths next fall. The University and the College of Education will continue to evaluate the program’s needs and adjust as necessary.
