APLU recognizes Clemson’s economic, community impact

Clemson University again earned national recognition by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU) for excellence in community engagement, innovation and economic development.

The university earned a 5-year extension of its APLU Innovation and Economic Prosperity (IEP) Designation following an external review of its commitment to working with community partners and stakeholders to maximize value and impact.

"We are thrilled to have received a 5-year extension of our APLU Innovation and Economic Prosperity Designation," said Clemson University President Jim Clements. "At Clemson, we are on a mission - to transform lives through the power of education and to provide a path to economic prosperity for all of our Tigers, the citizens of the great state of South Carolina, and beyond. The value of the Tiger Paw has never been higher, and we are dedicated to elevating and positively impacting our communities for generations to come."

To earn IEP designation, universities first complete a rigorous self-evaluation of community engagement programs, gathering input from both on- and off-campus stakeholders to identify strengths and opportunities for enhanced community impact.

IEP designation affirms the impact Clemson's workforce development, research, scholarship and outreach programs have on the economy and regional quality of life.

"Clemson University's re-designation as an IEP University is exciting news, as Clemson continues to play a crucial role in our region's economic development by building partnerships with state, regional, and local organizations," said Julio Hernandez, assistant to the president for community outreach and engagement. "Our University's strategy for the next decade, Clemson Elevate, not only strengthens our commitment to fulfilling our land-grant mission but fosters an environment for research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and so much more. With the amazing Clemson Family we have, we are pressing forward to further our efforts in community and economic engagement for the prosperity of our region."

APLU has awarded IEP designation to 87 institutions across the country. The program is open to both APLU members and non-members.

Clemson first earned IEP designation in 2015. That year, APLU honored Clemson with its annual IEP Talent Award in recognition of its excellence in education and workforce development, citing collaboration with the regional automotive industry to develop meaningful workforce development programs.

"This recognition by the APLU is a testament to the vital role that Clemson University plays in the economic development of the region and state," said Senior Vice President of External Affairs Angie Leidinger. "Working closely with our strategic corporate partners and regional economic development organizations, Clemson is committed to improving the economic competitiveness of South Carolina. The Elevate plan further strengthens our efforts to advance new technologies and deliver exceptional educational experiences to prepare the next generation of talented leaders."

About APLU

APLU is a membership organization that fosters a community of university leaders collectively working to advance the mission of public research universities. The association's U.S membership consists of more than 230 public research universities, land-grant institutions, state university systems, and affiliated organizations spanning across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and six U.S. territories. The association and its members collectively focus on increasing access, equity, completion, and workforce readiness; promoting pathbreaking scientific research; and bolstering economic and community engagement. Annually, its U.S. member campuses enroll 4.3 million undergraduates and 1.3 million graduate students, award 1.25 million degrees, employ 1.2 million faculty and staff, and conduct $58 billion in university-based research.