DATE: January 16, 2008

CONTACT: Clay Steadman, (864) 656-3414
STEADMN@clemson.edu

WRITER: Robin S. Denny, (864) 656-2061; 207-1162 (cell)
robin@clemson.edu

Clemson family saddened by loss of former trustee

CLEMSON — Clemson University has suffered the loss of emeritus trustee and alumnus Paul W. "P.W." McAlister.

A graduate of Clemson College's Class of 1941 with a bachelor of science degree in textile engineering, McAlister became a businessman and an attorney in Laurens. He earned his law degree from the University of South Carolina in 1953.

McAlister was a life trustee of Clemson University from 1972 to 1983, and had served as chairman and vice chairman of the board before his retirement. He also served on Clemson's board of visitors.

In 1978 he received the university's highest honor, the Clemson Medallion, and the Alumni Association's Distinguished Alumnus Award for his service to university and the community at large.

McAlister was a member of Clemson's Trustee Oak Society for cumulative giving, and his trust supports the Clemson National Scholars program.

A strong believer in and advocate for education, McAlister had been a member of the Laurens School District Board of Trustees and was involved in service endeavors at Wofford College and Emory University.

"P.W. McAlister represented the very best of  Clemson. His integrity, intelligence, leadership and commitment to Clemson set a standard all of us strive to meet. He will be greatly missed by the entire Clemson family," said James F. Barker, president of Clemson University.

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