Barker recaps Year at Clemson University

Clemson University President James F. Barker addressed faculty and staff Thursday at the year-end general faculty meeting with a summary of accomplishments during the academic year and a message of gratitude for their support during his presidency. Barker highlighted a number of milestones the university celebrated in 2012-2013, including the 150^th anniversary of the Morrill Act, which created the nation’s land-grant university system; the 50^th anniversary of Harvey Gantt’s enrollment at Clemson, which desegregated the university; and the university surpassing its $600 million goal in The Will to Lead capital campaign. The year also saw Clemson’s largest freshman class; the restructuring of the Eugene T. Moore School of Education and the College of Health, Education and Human Development; and the opening or construction of new facilities at the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research in Greenville and the Restoration Institute in North Charleston. Barker thanked faculty and staff for their encouragement during his medical leave and for their support throughout his term as Clemson’s president. Several awards to recognize faculty and staff were given during the meeting as well. Also recognized Thursday were faculty members who are retiring and receiving emeritus status.