Clemson Names UGA Provost Benjamin Ayers as President

Clemson University announced on July 9, 2026, that Benjamin C. Ayers has been selected as its next president. Ayers currently serves as the provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of Georgia. This appointment follows a period of uncertainty for Clemson's presidential search after the university rescinded an offer to a previous candidate.

Ayers's selection marks a significant leadership transition for Clemson, a public research university in South Carolina. His experience at the University of Georgia, a large public research institution, is expected to inform his leadership at Clemson. The university's board of trustees made the final decision after a comprehensive search process.

Clemson had previously offered the presidency to another candidate, but that offer was later withdrawn. The details surrounding the reversal were not fully disclosed, but it led to a renewed search. Ayers's appointment is intended to bring stability and clear direction to the university's administration. He is expected to begin his tenure at Clemson in the coming months, taking over from interim leadership.

Benjamin C. Ayers's academic background includes a law degree from the University of Virginia and a bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee. His career has involved various administrative roles within higher education, focusing on academic strategy and institutional development. The university community anticipates his contributions to Clemson's academic and research endeavors.