Thank You
Jane Smith!
Greetings From
Brian O'Rourke
We’re proud to share this year’s endowment report, highlighting the powerful impact your gifts make at Clemson. The numbers shared by the Clemson University Foundation tell an incredible story—but the true impact is seen in the students and faculty whose lives you’ve touched. Your generosity makes it all possible.
2025 STATEMENT OF ACTIVITY
FIERCELY
FOR CLEMSON
Igniting change through ingenuity, our donor profiles this year include two alumni who want others to have the same opportunity for the cherished Clemson Experience that shaped their lives.
SAM AND BEVERLY STONE
SUPPORTING CHESTER, SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENTS
AND PREPARING TIGERS FOR THEIR FUTURE HEALTH CARE CAREERS
A LEGACY OF GIVING BACK
Dr. Sam ’76 and Beverly Stone established the Stone Family Scholarship Endowment to support students from their hometown of Chester, South Carolina, in pursuing college — opportunities often out of reach for local families. Sam chose Clemson for its strong pre-med program, later earning his medical degree from MUSC and serving Chester County residents throughout his career.
A lifelong Tiger, he volunteered as a sideline physician at Memorial Stadium for more than 40 years. With four fellow alumni, he co-founded Tigers on Call, which connects Clemson students interested in health care with alumni professionals. Through their connected support, the Stones are helping future Tigers follow in their steps.
Tigers on Call, in partnership with the College of Science, gives Clemson students hands-on experiences — earning certifications, joining discussions, and learning from alumni and guest speakers. Alumni mentors offer guidance, networking and continuing medical education opportunities while sharing their own Clemson Journeys.
“We tell students what we would have done differently, so they can save time and get off to a good start. Clemson helped us get where we are. This is our way of paying back."
Even beyond the event, Stone stays connected — inviting students to shadow in his practice, on house calls and as team doctor at Chester High School. Service and mentorship are central to the Stones' philanthropy.
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DALE AND JACKIE REYNOLDS
CREATING UNIVERSITY-WIDE IMPACT BY ESTABLISHING
NAMED ENDOWMENTS IN SIX DIFFERENT COLLEGES
A PERFECT MATCH
Dale ’67 and Jackie Reynolds transformed a Clemson education and Houston career into a lifelong legacy of giving. After earning his mechanical engineering degree, Dale built a successful career in chemical sales with ExxonMobil, where he met Jackie, a fellow professional and Texas A&M alum. Following retirement in 2000, they returned to Pendleton, South Carolina, where Jackie pursued her love of the arts and history, and Dale reconnected with his beloved Clemson.
Their Clemson philanthropy began with a $5 gift in 1969 and has since grown into more than $2 million supporting programs across the University. The Reynolds focused on creating endowments to ensure lasting impact, amplified by ExxonMobil’s 3-to-1 matching program. Their thoughtful, strategic giving has established named endowments in six colleges — a powerful reflection of their shared passions and enduring Tiger spirit.
Dale and Jackie Reynolds have built a 50-year legacy of giving shaped by their passions for engineering, the arts, and animal welfare. Dale funded two endowed professorships in mechanical engineering to attract top faculty. Jackie, named an honorary alumna in 2019, supports historic preservation, performing arts and unrestricted giving. Their Reynolds Endowment for Companion Animals advances small animal health research and veterinary education in the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences.
They've also included Clemson in their estate plans with a faculty endowment in the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine. Together, the Reynolds have turned their passions into lasting impact — supporting the people, program and values that define Clemson.
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VALUE OF THE ENDOWMENT
in millions
FISCAL YEAR 2026 PAYOUT BY PURPOSE
TOTAL: $37,311,254
Each year, endowments pay out 4 percent for donor-designated purposes. The sum of all payouts in the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, is more than $37 million.
ENDOWMENT PAYOUT
in millions
Did you know?
The endowment funds are held and managed by the Clemson University Foundation (CUF). The investment committee of its board of directors, working with the chief investment officer and investment consultants, provides policy and direction for the investment and management of the endowment funds while maintaining prudent fiduciary standards.
Each of the 2,489 endowments managed by CUF essentially operates as an independent account. The assets of the individual funds are pooled and invested as a single portfolio.
The National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) annual endowment study is the most comprehensive annual report on the investment management and governance practices and policies of institutions of higher education across the U.S. As of FY24, the most recent NACUBO study, CUF outperformed the All-Institution average return for the 12th year in a row, and CUF’s 10-year return was in the top quartile for All Institutions (out of 658).
FIERCELY
FOR OUR STUDENTS
Your scholarship gifts make it possible for the following students — and many others — to launch lives of significance by developing the next generation of leaders, creators, healers and changemakers through the unmatched Clemson Experience.
RYAN BARKER
EXPECTED DATE OF GRADUATION:
May 2026
HOMETOWN:
Rochester, New York
MAJOR:
Ph.D., Open RAN Zero-Trust Security
College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences
RIGOR AND RELEVANCE
Those are the words Clemson grad Ryan Barker ’16, uses to describe Clemson’s blend of academic rigor and real-world relevance. "We're not just absorbing knowledge — we're contributing to it."
Barker’s Clemson Journey began long before he enrolled. Growing up in Rochester, New York, he and his father — also a Clemson graduate — bonded over Tiger football and frequent trips to campus. “Clemson already felt like home,” Barker says. “Whenever I step on campus, I feel an instant sense of belonging. Professors invest in your success, and everyone rallies around the same values.”
After earning his undergraduate degree, Barker built a successful career in telecommunications. Eight years later, he took a leap of faith — stepping away from his career and salary to return to Clemson and pursue a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering, supported by the Dr. John J. Komo Fellowship. His mentor, Dr. Harlan Russell, recognized Barker’s industry experience and helped shape a graduate path focused on AI, machine learning, and next-generation wireless systems.
Now, Barker is using his research to make an impact. “I believe these technologies will transform connectivity — bringing high-speed networks to underserved areas, enabling smarter cities, and empowering innovators everywhere,” he says. “This fellowship is literally changing my career path. I’m forever grateful to the donors who make opportunities like this possible.”
CHRISTA TUCKER
EXPECTED DATE OF GRADUATION:
December 2025
HOMETOWN:
Irmo, South Carolina
MAJOR:
Nursing
College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences
READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Christa Tucker, a senior nursing student from Irmo, South Carolina, graduates in December from Clemson's College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences. Inspired by her parents to pursue a challenging and meaningul career, she says, "Nursing offers endless opportunities to grow and be challenged. As I near graduation, I know I made the right choice."
She chose Clemson as South Carolina's top university for its rigorous academics, vibrant student life and extracurriculars. "My first visit wasn't to decide where I'd go — it was to confirm I'd made the right choice."
Supported by the Emily Peek Wallace ’72 Scholarship Endowment for S.T.E.M. and the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Nursing Scholarship, Christa thrives. "These scholarships mean I'm supported beyond my immediate family and friends," she says. "That support has helped me through nursing's rigorous demands." Clinical traning, she adds, has been the most rewarding part. "Being face-to-face with patients and seeing the difference you make reminds you why you're doing this."
Amid a national nursing shortage, Christa plans to return home and serve her community. "When I think about my time at Clemson, I think about everyone who helped me along the way," she says. "It's made such a difference to know there are people who believe in my future. Now, I'm ready to make a difference for others."
DELANEY HOPKINS
EXPECTED DATE OF GRADUATION:
May 2026
HOMETOWN:
Northville, Michigan
MAJOR:
Environmental and Natural Resources
with a concentration in Conservation Biology
College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences
WHEN THE WHOLE WORLD IS OPEN
Delaney Hopkins grew up near the University of Michigan but dreamed of a college surrounded by nature. She found her home at Clemson, where she’s studying environmental and natural resources in a small-town setting that perfectly fits her love for the outdoors. “I would love to work at a zoo, aquarium or wildlife rescue,” she says. “I also love teaching people about the amazing creatures on earth. After graduation, the whole world will be open to me.”
That dream is made possible through the Class of 1953 Golden Anniversary Scholarship Endowment, which helps fund her Clemson education. During college, Hopkins became physically disabled, bringing unexpected medical and accessibility expenses. “Being a college student is expensive, but being a disabled college student is even more expensive,” she says. “Scholarships help offset my cost of living and give my family peace of mind.”
Despite new challenges, Hopkins has thrived — finding strength and community through the Clemson Wheelchair Tennis Team. “I had been an athlete my whole life,” she says. “When I found wheelchair tennis, I felt whole again. I could move freely and channel my competitive spirit. I finally had an outlet and a team.”
Hopkins remains deeply grateful for the support that allows her to pursue her education and passion for the environment. “College opens your eyes to the world,” she says. “The generosity of Clemson’s donors makes that possible. Clemson students will change the world — and donors are helping make our journeys easier.”
FIERCELY
FOR OUR FACULTY
Two of Clemson's leading researchers share their work that is making an incredible difference out in the world – endowed faculty positions like these bring elite talent to Clemson, unlock potential and conduct cutting-edge research that transforms lives in deeply personal ways.
DR. EHSAN MOUSAVI
DENNIS C. BAUSMAN ENDOWED CHAIR IN
CONSTRUCTION SCIENCE AND MANAGEMENT
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Ehsan Mousavi, the Dennis C. Bausman Endowed Chair in Construction Science and Management in Clemson’s College of Architecture, Art and Construction, leads research focused on how indoor environments impact human health. His team studies the intersection of airflow dynamics, ventilation strategies, and indoor air quality (IAQ) in complex spaces like hospitals and schools — where air truly matters most.
Another area of his research uses big data and predictive maintenance to monitor HVAC systems in large facilities, identifying inefficiencies before they become costly failures. “Whether it’s improving infection control through better ventilation or reducing operational costs, our work directly improves health outcomes, energy efficiency and quality of life,” Mousavi says. “That tangible, human-centered benefit is what keeps me deeply engaged.”
Beyond the lab, Mousavi finds fulfillment in the classroom. “Clemson fosters a culture where innovation, teaching and service are genuinely valued,” he says. “Whether guiding undergraduates or mentoring graduate researchers, I find deep satisfaction in the relationships and impact we create together.”
The endowed chair honors the late Dennis C. Bausman, a beloved professor and industry leader who spent 24 years at Clemson. “I am deeply grateful to the donors whose vision makes positions like this possible,” Mousavi adds. “Your faith in my work inspires me to uphold Dr. Bausman’s legacy and contribute meaningfully to the future of construction science and management.”
DR. LAURA FINZI
DR. WAENARD L. MILLER JR. '69 AND SHEILA M. MILLER
ENDOWED CHAIR IN MEDICAL BIOPHYSICS
FIVE-STAR RECRUIT
Renowned molecular biophysicist Laura Finzi was recruited to Clemson to serve as the inaugural Dr. Waenard L. Miller Jr. ’69 and Sheila M. Miller Endowed Chair in Medical Biophysics in the College of Science. She also serves on the faculty of the Clemson University Center for Human Genetics. Before Clemson, Finzi held positions at the University of New Mexico, the University of Oregon, the University of Milano in Italy, and Emory University — bringing with her an impressive record of interdisciplinary research and a deep passion for mentoring students.
Finzi was drawn to Clemson’s strong academic reputation and its collaborative spirit. “The medical biophysics program at Clemson has incredible potential to bring together colleagues and partners from across the University community to advance this area of science,” she says. Her current research focuses on the mechanics of DNA transcription, work that could help unravel how genes are regulated and contribute to advances in precision medicine — tailoring treatments to each patient’s genetic makeup and environment.
The endowed chair, made possible by a $2 million gift from cardiologist Dr. Waenard L. Miller ’69 and his wife, Sheila M. Miller, is one of the University’s highest academic honors. It provides resources to advance both research and education in medical biophysics. Finzi recognizes how transformative that support is. “This endowment is a tremendous honor,” she says. “It’s enabling exciting new research directions — not just for my work but for the entire biophysics community at Clemson and beyond.”
With this support, Finzi’s team is pursuing high-risk, high-reward research and expanding international collaborations. She hopes to see Clemson become a national leader in medical biophysics through the creation of a Center for Physics of Health and Disease — a hub for innovation that could transform biomedical research and save lives. Finzi believes the Millers’ generosity will help train new generations of scientists who will drive discovery and advance human health for decades to come.
THE LIFE OF AN ENDOWMENT
Endowment funds are invested for long-term growth, with an annual payout distribution (currently 4 percent of the 12-quarter average market value) made available in support of donor-designated purposes. This means the University is provided funding for scholarships, faculty support and other academic and student support every year.
Additionally, an annual administrative fee is assessed to endowment funds (currently 1.25 percent of the 12-quarter average market value of each endowment) to support fundraising costs and investment administration costs. This allows for the continuation of a strong fundraising focus at Clemson and enables continued growth of this critical financial resource to the University.
CONSOLIDATED ENDOWMENT PERFORMANCE
AND ASSET ALLOCATION
As of June 30, 2025
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE COMPARISON TO BENCHMARKS AND PEERS
FOOTNOTES:
*1, 3, and 5 Year - Target Benchmark: 42.2% (60% Russell 3000/40% MSCI ACWI ex. US), 8.9% (33% BBG Commodity TR/33% S&P GNR/33% FTSE/EPRA NAREIT Global Real Estate), 12.5% HFRI FoF Composite, 17% BBG Barclays Aggregate Bond, 16.3% Actual PE/VC Performance, 3.1% Actual Private Real Assets Performance. 10 Year - Policy Benchmark: 42% Russell 3000, 28% MSCI ACWI ex. US, 15% BBG Barclays Aggregate Bond, 5% BBG Commodity TR, 5% S&P Global NR, 5% FTSE/EPRA NAREIT Global Real Estate.
**Represents medians for Cambridge Associates All Institutions population of 424 peers for 1 year, 417 peers for 3 years, 411 peers for 5 years, and 388 peers for 10 years.
ASSET ALLOCATION FOR THE LONG-TERM INVESTMENT POOL
Thank You!
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