From the Dean
Although the beginning of this semester is not typical of any in my past 28 years at Clemson University, much still feels the same. Over the past month, we have welcomed our returning students in addition to more than 1,500 new undergraduates and approximately 350 new graduate students as well as new faculty and staff to our college, and while in-person instruction has been delayed until Sept. 21, our college community is responding with the ingenuity, flexibility and goodwill that we are known for. The in-depth interviews with our administrative team in this issue provide specific details on how the college has adapted to the current situation. As you can see, we are well positioned as always for a successful fall semester and academic year.
Even though they have been working and studying remotely, our faculty and students have continued their wide-ranging research addressing today’s challenges, and this month’s newsletter highlights some of their efforts. In addition to healthcare and wastewater testing for the novel coronavirus, our faculty are also focusing on critical research in nuclear energy and cutting-edge concepts that are changing the automotive industry.
Also featured in this issue is Jennifer Ogle, who has led study-abroad programs that have helped bring clean water to Haiti and much-needed supplies to storm-ravaged Dominica. Now, as the new associate chair in the Glenn Department of Civil Engineering, she is overseeing the adoption of a project-based curriculum that will help create the innovators and leaders of the future.
As alumni, donors and friends, you are crucial to the college’s success. Your generosity, which is always deeply valued, is especially meaningful as we begin this new semester. You can continue supporting the college by clicking the “Make a Gift” button below. Know that I appreciate all you do and have done for us; it is because of the time and treasure you have so willingly given the college that I am both excited and confident about this new academic year.
Stay healthy and safe,
Anand K. Gramopadhye, Dean