Clemson taps Georgia's Ben Ayers as next president

Key Points:

• Clemson swiftly moved to hire Georgia provost Ben Ayers as its 16th president after Kevin Guskiewicz unexpectedly decided to remain at Michigan State despite initially accepting the Clemson job.
• The Clemson Board of Trustees scheduled a meeting to approve Ayers’ contract and officially introduce him as president, with Ayers set to start in early August.
• Ben Ayers has extensive academic leadership experience, having served as Georgia’s provost for one year and previously as dean of the Terry College of Business for 11 years, overseeing a large academic unit and budget.
• Ayers holds degrees from Alabama and Texas, and has been recognized by University of Georgia President Jere Morehead as a proven and respected leader with strong ties to faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external partners.
• Kevin Guskiewicz was initially expected to replace long-time Clemson president Jim Clements but ultimately chose to stay at Michigan State after meeting with Clemson stakeholders and wrestling with his decision.