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Clemson Board Appoints Benjamin Ayers as New President

7/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Clemson University’s Board of Trustees unanimously selected Dr. Benjamin C. Ayers as president.
The board approved a five-year contract with a $1 million base salary and up to $275,000 bonuses, effective August 1, 2026.
Ayers previously served as senior vice president for academic affairs and provost at the University of Georgia, overseeing 20 schools.
His appointment follows the board’s renewed search after president-elect Kevin Guskiewicz chose to stay at Michigan State.

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Story summary

Clemson University’s Board of Trustees unanimously selected Dr. Benjamin C. Ayers as president.
The board approved a five-year contract with a $1 million base salary and up to $275,000 bonuses, effective August 1, 2026.
Ayers previously served as senior vice president for academic affairs and provost at the University of Georgia, overseeing 20 schools.
His appointment follows the board’s renewed search after president-elect Kevin Guskiewicz chose to stay at Michigan State.