Professor receives Class of 1939 Award for Excellence

Published: January 12, 2010

CLEMSON — Webb M. Smathers Jr., professor of applied economics and statistics in the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences, has been recognized by his peers and the Class of 1939 as one of Clemson University’s best.

Colleagues and members of the Class of ’39 paid tribute to Smathers in a ceremony in the university’s Carillon Garden Tuesday. His name will be engraved on the base of the bell monument.

The Class of 1939 Award for Excellence, which includes a $5,000 stipend, was established by that class to recognize faculty members for the highest achievement of service to the student body, the university and the community. The recipient also becomes an honorary member of the class.

“There is no higher honor than to be recognized by your peers,” said Smathers. “This award represents the pinnacle of my career.”

“Recipients of the Class of ‘39 Award are among the greats of this university,” said Provost Doris Helms. “Webb is a terrific example of the quintessential teacher, nurturing a love of learning in his students. When it comes to engagement with students, there is no one better.”

“Webb Smathers is responsible for encouraging me to get involved with Faculty Senate and running for Senate president. He has been my safety net when I needed advice and counsel,” said Bill Bowerman, current president of the Faculty Senate.

Many past award recipients were in attendance, wearing their medallions around their necks. Also attending were Jim Sweeny and Tee Senn, members of the original Class of ’39 who graduated 71 years ago.

“Our class members charge you with the responsibility of maintaining the integrity of this award,” said Sweeny.

Smather’s career spans more than three decades of outstanding achievement, with the last 22 years being at Clemson.

“The university is in a time of transition and it is the job of all of us to mentor the new faculty joining our ranks,” Smathers said.

Smathers is adviser to three student organizations, past president of the Faculty Senate and has served on numerous departmental, college and university committees including the Athletic Council, the Grievance Board and the newly appointed President’s Commission on Sustainable Environment. He is an advocate for conservation and is active in several statewide organizations, including the South Carolina Wildlife Federation, and as an appointee by four governors to the state Department of Natural Resources Land, Water and Conservation Board.

Smathers holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of North Carolina-Asheville, a bachelor’s degree in environmental economics from the University of Kentucky and master’s and Ph.D. degrees in agricultural economics from the University of Kentucky.

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