Skip to content

Materials Science and Engineering

Esmacher Scholars Program

Thanks to the generosity of MSE Alumnus and MSE External Advisory Board member, Russ Esmacher, and his wife Julie, MSE is proud to announce the Russell ’96 and Julie ‘94 Esmacher Scholars Program. This scholarship program is for current MSE majors or General Engineering students planning to major in Materials Science and Engineering who are passionate about Materials Science and Engineering and want to develop outreach, research, and/or industry professional development skills.

Apply Today

The deadline to apply is Friday, March 13, 2026.

Contact:
Laura Kinard
lkinard@clemson.edu
864-656-1512
AMIC 2122

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the focus areas for scholars?

    Scholars can choose from three areas, each with a faculty advisor:

    1. Research
    2. Industry Engagement
    3. Outreach & Recruiting

    Students may select one area initially, but participation in multiple areas is encouraged as they grow. Note: Areas may be capped if interest is high.

  • What opportunities are available in each area?

    Research

    • Participate in Creative Inquiry projects and undergraduate research.
    • Present research at conferences (MS&T, ACS, APS, etc.).

    Industry Engagement

    • Join Material Advantage for leadership opportunities.
    • Connect with Clemson MSE alumni and industry contacts.
    • Pursue internships or REUs and serve as a liaison.
    • Tutor other students.

    Outreach & Recruiting

    • Assist with recruiting events:
      • Alumni event at MS&T
      • Contact incoming high school students (hometown recruiting)
      • Evening event for General Engineering students
    • Organize alumni tailgates and career fairs.
    • Present research at conferences.
    • Explore creative ideas like entrepreneurship.
    • Seniors can assist program faculty advisors.
  • Can I participate in more than one area?
    Yes! Scholars can start in one area and expand to others over time.
  • How will my performance be evaluated?
    Your faculty advisor will assess your contributions and engagement in your chosen area(s).
  • What are the additional benefits?
    • Opportunities to compete for conference travel funds
    • Support for conference attendance, especially if full scholarship funding isn’t available.
  • What questions should I consider before applying?
    • Time commitment: How much time can you dedicate?
    • Evaluation: How will your progress be measured?
  • Other Opportunities
    • Entrepreneurship and innovative projects.
    • Leadership roles in student organizations.
    • Networking with alumni and industry professionals.
Julie and Russ Esmacher

Russ Esmacher received his Bachelor of Science in ceramic engineering and his Master of Science in materials science and engineering, both from Clemson. In his career, Esmacher has made an indelible mark on the global telecommunications industry. His contributions are profound, shaping the very fabric of the internet. Esmacher’s leadership at industry-leading companies, including Corning, Cisco Systems, Nokia, and Infinera, has been instrumental in developing the infrastructure underpinning the digital age.

Esmacher has also given back to his alma mater with both time and treasure, including service on the advisory board for the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Esmacher was the first graduate of what is now known as the Center for Optical Materials Science and Engineering Technologies (COMSET) and was a key supporter in its creation.

In 2024, Esmacher was selected by the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences for induction into the Thomas Green Clemson Academy of Engineers and Scientists, a testament to his monumental contributions and their enduring impact on society.

Julie earned an undergraduate degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in special education. The Esmachers have three children: Will, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and government; Sara, a senior majoring in marketing; and Gibson, a first-year nursing major.