In 2001, President Barker, in coordination with the Clemson University Board of Trustees, set out to create a list of ambitious yet reachable goals for our institution. To do this, they looked at both who we are today and who we want to be tomorrow (namely, a top-20 public university). The goals address academic excellence, research, the student experience and Clemson’s national reputation. These goals stay top-of-mind for our University administrators, and progress toward these goals is continually monitored.
Why is it important for Clemson to work toward these goals? As President Barker pointed out, “Research shows that students who attend top-ranked universities are more likely to graduate on time, will earn higher starting salaries, and are more likely to be admitted to prestigious graduate programs. Top-tier universities are more successful at generating external funding, are more likely to generate spin-off companies, and attract more high-technology industries.” Reaching these goals helps everyone; THAT is why it is so important.
Download the President's Report Card in pdf format.
Academics, research and service
- Excel in teaching, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Increase research and sponsored programs to exceed $100 million a year in research support.
- Set the standard in public service for land-grant universities by engaging the whole campus in service and outreach, including a focus on strategic emphasis areas.
- Foster Clemson's academic reputation through strong academic programs, mission-oriented research and academic centers of excellence, relevant public service and highly regarded faculty and staff.
- Seek and cultivate areas where teaching, research and service overlap.
Campus life
- Strengthen our sense of community and increase our diversity.
- Recognize and appreciate Clemson's distinctiveness.
- Create greater awareness of international programs and increase activity in this area.
- Increase our focus on collaboration.
- Maintain an environment that is healthy, safe and attractive.
Student performance
- Attract more students who are ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school classes and who perform exceptionally well on the SAT/ACT.
- Promote high graduation rates through increasing freshman retention, meeting expectations of high achievers and providing support systems for all students.
- Promote excellence in advising.
- Increase the annual number of doctoral graduates to the level of a top-20 public research university.
- Improve the national competitiveness of graduate student admissions and financial aid.
Educational resources
- Successfully complete our current capital campaign and a subsequent one.
- Rededicate our energy and resources to improving the library.
- Increase faculty compensation to a level competitive with top-20 public universities.
- Increase academic expenditures per student to a level competitive with top-20 public universities.
- Manage enrollment to ensure the highest quality classroom experiences.
Clemson's national reputation
- Promote high integrity and professional demeanor among all members of the University community.
- Establish a Phi Beta Kappa chapter.
- Have at least two Clemson students win Rhodes Scholarships.
- Send student ensembles to perform at Carnegie Hall.
- Have at least two Clemson faculty win recognition by national academies.
- Publicize both national and international accomplishments of faculty, staff and students. While maintaining full compliance, achieve notable recognition with another national football championship, two championships in Olympic sports and two Final Four appearances in basketball.
Approved by the Clemson University Board of Trustees, January 26, 2001