Bart Proctor Named Honorary Alumnus

The Clemson Alumni Association recognized Barton A. “Bart” Proctor of Key West, FL with the designation of Honorary Alumnus of Clemson University. The distinction of Honorary Alumnus/a is a special recognition intended for steadfast Tiger supporters whose “blood runs orange” but who never attended Clemson.

Bart Proctor has had a significant impact on the fundraising efforts of Clemson University for many years. A 1985 graduate of the University of North Carolina – Wilmington, Proctor is the father of three Clemson graduates, Libby Miller ‘13, Hannah Bennett ‘16 and Katherine Proctor ‘20. His sons-in-law Byrd Miller and Connor Bennett are also Clemson graduates. Proctor has been a dedicated servant to Clemson since his oldest daughter Libby began her degree. Libby, Byrd and Connor also earned graduate degrees from Clemson.

Proctor is the CEO and managing partner of Pye-Barker Fire and Safety, an industry leader in fire protection services and equipment. With over 150 locations across the United States and approximately 4,500 employees, Pye-Barker is one of the fastest growing companies in the country.

One of the first ways Proctor began his support for the future of Clemson University was by serving as the chair for the Littlejohn Coliseum Campaign Committee. Clemson’s men’s basketball coach, Brad Brownell, described Proctor as “truly one of our best: a leader, a citizen and a donor.” He stated, “I imagine most people in our basketball family circle would not have the slightest idea that Bart actually attended another institution.”

Proctor has volunteered on the Clemson University Foundation and the Order of the Oak Board of Directors. He is a former member of the Clemson Athletics Campaign Cabinet and is the first non-Clemson graduate Cornerstone Partner, contributing $2.5M in cumulative gifts to the basketball program.

Clemson Alumni Association Executive Director, Wil Brasington, stated, “The type of dedication and service that Bart has committed to Clemson is usually seen only in those who have earned a degree from our institution. The Honorary Alumnus designation is an opportunity for us to recognize those special members of the Clemson Family who have made a great impact on our university without receiving that degree. It is an honor to be able to recognize Bart in this way.”

In addition to his support for Clemson University, Proctor has served on the boards of the Dee Norton Lowcountry Children’s Center (DNLCC); Life Resources in Mt. Pleasant, SC; and the Ashley Hall School.

The Honorary Alumnus designation was presented to Proctor while surrounded by his family and friends by Wil Brasington; Clemson University President Jim Clements; Men’s Basketball Coach, Brad Brownell; Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff, Max Allen; and Aaron Dunham, Senior Associate Director of IPTAY Major Gifts.

Honorary alumni are selected by the Alumni Association board of directors on the basis of outstanding service, lifelong devotion and loyalty to Clemson University or the Clemson Alumni Association. Nominations for the 2023 Honorary Alumnus/a designation open in October and close January 31. To nominate a deserving person, to review past honorees or to view the award guidelines, visit the Clemson Alumni website at alum