Dear Clemson:
I write to tell you some great news and to explain why this news is important to you. Another one of Clemson's ten year goals has been achieved.
This weekend the faculty of Clemson University was awarded a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa in recognition of their work and in recognition of the quality of Clemson students. This award culminates a rigorous three-year process, which included reviews of faculty credentials, student achievement and a detailed campus visit and review.
Founded in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious scholastic organization in America. Chapters are normally awarded at institutions whose focus is on the arts and sciences. The review of Clemson determined that although our college structure and approach to the arts and sciences are not traditional, the standards of excellence are very high and meet Phi Beta Kappa standards.
From the perspective of our faculty I see this milestone as continuing the legacy of such great teachers and scholars as D.W. Daniel, English and Communications (Daniel Hall); Mark Bernard Hardin, Chemistry (Hardin Hall); John Lane, English; and a long and distinguished list of Clemson faculty in the arts and sciences.
What it means to our students is that your Clemson degree will have even more value. Those students who will be selected for membership in Phi Beta Kappa will join some of America's finest leaders and scholars over that past 230 years.
Clemson University is indebted to Fant Scholar Jens Holley, Clemson Libraries Department Chair, who coordinated the faculty-driven effort to establish a chapter at Clemson. He and his colleagues brought their Phi Beta Kappa memberships with them when they joined our faculty. Together, they will now build a thriving chapter on the Clemson campus.
I offer my gratitude and congratulations to all who brought this recognition to us.
Sincerely,
James F. Barker, FAIA
President