Barker officially takes over the top administration post
Describing the presidency as “the single honor of my life,” James F. Barker was officially inaugurated last Friday as the University’s 14th president.
Surrounded by dogwood trees and azaleas in full bloom, the ceremony began with a procession of faculty, staff and students, many dressed in full academic regalia, across campus that culminated in the amphitheater. Joining the procession were government officials, representatives of other universities and academic societies, and alumni representing classes from 1927 to 1999.
An international presence was felt with the surrounding of over 70 flags, one for every nation represented in the Clemson student body.
The ceremony continued with the presentation of the colors by the Pershing Rifles, followed by the national anthem.
Lawrence Gressette, chairman of the University Board of Trustees, welcomed the attendees with an introduction of Barker. He said that Barker “adds luster and prestige to the list of Clemson leaders.”
“No one is better suited to lead Clemson into the 21st century,” said Gressette.
Classified Staff Commission President Catherine Bell ensured Barker of the staff’s willingness to communicate to help achieve the University’s goals.
She continued to describe Barker’s enthusiasm for touring the University’s facilities outside of the campus.
Noting that Barker had “love and loyalty for Clemson,” former student body president Wil Brasington expressed the student body’s approval for the new president.
“We [undergraduates] are very proud of you. We are excited about your presidency because you are a Clemson student,” Brasington said. “You have worked tirelessly and are a true role model to Clemson students and Clemson families.”
Speaker of the South Carolina House David Wilkins described Barker as an “old fraternity brother,” noting that they were student-athletes in school.
“He was the student, and I tried to be the athlete,” Wilkins joked to the audience’s delight. He pledged full support and cooperation of the state government to make the University a better institution for generations to come.
Former Clemson student and Lt. Gov. Bob Peeler reminisced about living in the “tin cans” of Johnstone and reminded students to “take with them what [they] learn at Clemson and you can do well.”
Jim Hodges, governor of South Carolina, relayed his confidence in Barker’s leadership.
“I can think of no better person to whom we can extend this [Clemson] legacy,” the governor said. “This is a great day for Clemson University and the state of South Carolina.”
U.S. Rep. Lindsay Graham joked that his 800 on the SAT kept him out of Clemson.
“My job opportunities were limited. That’s why I went into politics,” he said.
On a serious note, Graham challenged Barker to prepare South Carolina’s sons and daughters for the future and pledged support for Barker’s endeavors.
“When it comes to South Carolina and education, we’re going to work very hard for [Barker]. We will work hard to get research money because [the University] has earned it.”
Barker received an academic gown bearing the University seal, which represents his academic authority, as well as a copy of the will of Thomas Green Clemson and the act of acceptance of that will by the state of South Carolina, signifying his legislative authority. Gressette called the will an “official job description” for the presidency and the act of acceptance as a “contract with the people of South Carolina.”
The chain of office, representing Barker’s magisterial authority as “city manager” of the University, which is also a separate municipality, was also bestowed.
“What a combination of joy and humility I feel as I accept the presidency of my alma mater,” Barker said. “It is most gratifying to have president emeriti here today; each has been my teacher.”
Barker continued to look at the University’s redeeming qualities. “Clemson is, at its core, an idea—a wonderful, bold and powerful idea.”
He listed Clemson’s qualities as being inclusive, not exclusive, academically challenging, visionary, indomitable, bold, innovative and radical, distinctive, sensitive to the needs of others, and based on family.
Barker showed his enthusiasm for excellence at the University at the closing of his address. “[I want to] ensure that Clemson will be stronger at the end of my service. A united Clemson is unstoppable.”