New Fire Chief sworn in; Innovations in research

DAILY NEWSLETTER
OCTOBER 12, 2026

ABOVE THE FOLD

Good morning! Clemson University's new Fire Chief was sworn in last week. Learn how one ecologist takes to the sky to research fungus; The John E. Walker Department of Economics has named a new interim chair.

Billy Moreland receives a fire chief helmet.

What to know today:

William “Billy” Moreland (pictured right) was officially sworn in as Clemson University’s Fire Chief on Friday, capping off his first full week on the job. Moreland comes to Clemson after 30 years with the Fairfax County (Va.) Fire and Rescue Department.

NEWS AND UPDATES

Kimberly Metris in front of a plane with a red play button and text that reads WHAT IS ACTUALLY IN THE AIR?

Clemson molecular ecologist Kimberly Métris has a unique way of researching fungus: from the sky. Flying her single-engine aircraft throughout the region, Métris takes samples that can help provide an early-warning system for forest disease, crop threats or major ecological disturbance.
The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business at Clemson University has named Matthew S. Lewis as the interim chair of the John E. Walker Department of Economics. Lewis joined Clemson in 2013 and was promoted to professor in 2021.

Statewide Spotlights

Clemson doctoral student Akshit Suthar at the Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science is using drones to deliver wildlife recorders into remote wetlands, helping researchers study secretive marsh birds and other difficult-to-observe wildlife.

MORE FROM TIGERTOWN

Special Collections and Archives (SCA) is updating the University's Historic Object Inventory, ensuring that certain items connected to Clemson's history are documented. All faculty and staff are asked to help ensure items remain in their current location and are properly maintained. Historic objects should not be moved or placed in storage without consulting SCA.

UPCOMING EVENTS