The Roaring 10 – Page 2 – Clemson Alumni Association

Claire Reddeck Bowman, ’03, M‘08

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Claire Reddeck Bowman of Charleston, SC as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Bowman is an associate for McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture, where her focus areas are higher education and senior living. At McMillan Pazdan Smith, Bowman was selected to participate in the Leadership MPS program, which introduces young leaders to all aspects of the firm in order to prepare them for additional leadership roles in both projects and the operations of the firm.

While previously living in Greenville, Bowman served as president of the board of directors for the Pendleton Place children’s shelter and provided design assistance for the renovation of an adjacent property into offices and meeting spaces for family engagement. She also served on the board of directors for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Greenville chapter and regularly attended and organized mentoring sessions and events with the Clemson AIA-Student Chapter.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Tyrone Oliver Gayle ‘10

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Tyrone Oliver Gayle of Washington, DC as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Gayle is the Press Secretary for United States Senator Kamala Harris. He moved to Washington, D.C., after graduation and began his career on the Press and Communications team at the Center for American Progress. Gayle joined the Kaine for Virginia campaign in 2011, during which he developed a close relationship with now Virginia Senator, Tim Kaine.

In 2015, Gayle moved to New York, where he served as a key member of the Hillary for America’s Communications team. He was named a ‘Rising Star’ by Campaign and Elections Magazine and after the 2016 presidential election, Tyrone joined Senator Kamala Harris’ office in his current role. Gayle has spent the last few years mentoring young people of color in politics.

In 2016, Tyrone was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer, which required an invasive surgery and 21 days of recovery in the hospital. As he continues to receive chemotherapy, he is often comforted by his D.C. Clemson community.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Noelle Cabato Holdsworth ’11

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Noelle Cabato Holdsworth of Atlanta, GA as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Holdsworth is employed by T-Mobile as an Employer Brand Manager focused on Culture & Brand and has received numerous internal accolades. She was recently selected to serve on the Talent Brand Alliance Board, an organization for Employer Brand and Recruitment Marketing professionals.

From 2014 to 2016, Holdsworth served as an Executive Board Member for T-Mobile’s Diversity & Inclusion Multigenerational Network. She has continued her work with Diversity & Inclusion focused efforts by helping establish the Atlanta Chapter and serving on the Chapter’s Executive Board since 2017.

As Co-Chair of the Clemson Alumni Association’s Atlanta Clemson Club Community Service Committee, Noelle has organized partnerships with Covenant House, a non-profit that supports homeless youth, and Wellspring Living, an organization that serves survivors and those at risk of childhood sexual abuse and exploitation, including sex trafficking victims.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

France L. Jackson ’11, M. ’13

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized France L. Jackson of Hillsboro, OR as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Jackson is a recipient of the Gates Millennium Scholarship which allowed her the opportunity to earn her Bachelor’s and Masters of Science in Industrial Engineering degrees from Clemson University. She is one of only two African-American women to be the first to obtain a Ph.D. in the Computer & Information Science & Engineering Department at the University of Florida.

Jackson is employed by Intel supporting global projects that affect how we experience technology daily by creating and testing innovative software experiences that are optimized for Intel Architecture. She has served on projects such as Hands 2 Love, utilizing her knowledge and skills to help children with congenital upper limb differences participate in sports that are drone-powered. As a STEM advocate, France participates with several organizations that help expose girls and underrepresented minorities to STEM careers.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Aliza Darnell McGuire ’12

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Aliza Darnell McGuire of St. Louis, MO as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

McGuire began her career at Erwin Penland (now known as EP + Co.) in Greenville, SC, as a public relations account assistant and quickly rose to the position of Senior Content Manager, where she worked with national clients, such as Verizon, Disney XD and Chick-fil-A. She currently works as the Prevention Services Coordinator at Epworth Children and Family Services, one of the largest social service agencies in St. Louis.

While in her master’s program, McGuire continued to volunteer, serving with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri and Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Program. She served as the Clemson Young Alumni Council’s President-Elect for the last three years and is currently serving as the Clemson Alumni Association’s St. Louis Clemson Club Secretary.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Susan Ridgeway Nunamaker ’01

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Susan Ridgeway Nunamaker of Seneca, SC as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

A former accountant, Nunamaker is a second-career educator who is dedicated to enlightening the community about the importance of education. In 2014, Susan joined the Central Elementary School transformation team as the instructional coach and helped the school to become a top-performing school in the district while increasing 132 positions in state rankings over the course of only one year (2014-2015).

She joined the faculty at Clemson in 2017 as the program coordinator for the M.Ed. in Teaching and Learning and has coordinated numerous partnerships between Clemson and local schools to encourage exposure to higher education. Nunamaker was honored as the 2018 University Supervisor of the Year for Early Childhood Education due to her dedication to mentoring and guiding future teachers to improve the craft of teaching for the benefit of students across the State of South Carolina and beyond.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Allison Marshall Puechl ’09

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Allison Marshall Puechl of Raleigh, NC as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Puechl is a Gynecologic Oncology Fellow with Duke University Medical Center. While a resident at Duke University, she was selected as Administrative Chief Resident, and in this role, was responsible for the scheduling of 32 residents. Puechl is a three-time recipient of the Charles B. Hammond Research Grant and has used the grant award to research various cancer treatments.

Puechl is involved in the medical community, serving on the Society of Gynecology Oncology Education Committee, Duke Department of Ob/Gyn Wellness Committee, and Duke Graduate Medical Education Council. She also spends a great deal of time mentoring students regarding their career paths. After joining the group in 2015, Allison has served on the executive board of the Clemson Alumni Association’s Clemson Women’s Alumni Council as the secretary.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Don Allen Sharpe, Jr. M ’17

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Don Allen Sharpe, Jr. of Swansea, SC as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Sharpe is currently employed as the Student Services Program Coordinator at Midlands Technical College, where he advocates for quality access to education, strong mentoring to both traditional and non-traditional students, as well as a commitment to overall quality within the higher education setting.

Sharpe served as his division’s representative on Staff Council and eventually was elected by the entire college staff to serve as Chair of Staff Council. He regularly volunteers at the Lexington Recreation and Aging Commission Senior Citizens Center and tutors students in Lexington School District Four in the humanities.

In 2018, he was selected to join Leadership Lexington County, and his cohort has already raised significant funds for an educational outreach charity. Sharpe recently completed his term as a Board Member of the Clemson Alumni Association’s LGBTQ+ Alumni Club and participates in Clemson Alumni’s Second Century Society.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Dan “McKee” McKeithan Thomason, Jr. ’13

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Dan “McKee” McKeithan Thomason, Jr. of Charlottesville, VA as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Thomason is currently enrolled as a student at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Prior to attending Darden, he was the Assistant Vice President of Commercial Lending at Congressional Bank. He began his career at BB&T as a 2014 graduate of their Leadership Development Program and later worked as a Portfolio Manager on BB&T’s Commercial Real Estate team in Washington, D.C.

Thomason volunteers with Junior Achievement as a member of their Associate Leadership Council and was responsible for organizing BB&T’s Bowl-A-Thon event benefitting JA, which raised over $35 thousand each year. He is involved with JA Finance Parks and also volunteers in classrooms to teach financial literacy and work readiness.

Thomason works regularly with the Clemson Alumni Association’s Baltimore/Washington, D.C. Clemson Club and has earned a position on the Regional Board of Directors and Young Alumni Committee. He successfully organized a new event, the Young Alumni Sunset Cruise, for the DC Club which drew over 50 attendees each of the last two years.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

John B. Wright, Jr. ’10

October 1, 2018/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized John B. Wright, Jr. of Anderson, SC as one of the 2018 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Upon graduation in 2010, Wright worked in the financial services industry before joining his family’s business in 2012. Since then, he has personally brokered or developed more than $40 million of commercial real estate, many projects that have been well publicized and helped grow the local economy.

Wright is the youngest-ever chairman of the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and has been recognized by the SC School Boards Association for his commitment to public education. He is a member of the Anderson University Board of Visitors, an active Rotarian, a graduate of Leadership Anderson, and an active member of Newspring Church.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Mark Nicholas Ziats, ’07

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Mark Nicholas Ziats of Dexter, MI as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Ziats is a resident physician in a combined internal medicine–medical genetics training program at the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan Health System. He holds a B.S. in biochemistry from Clemson, an M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine and a Ph.D. in human genetics from the University of Cambridge. Ziats has published more than 20 journal papers and started a biotechnology consulting firm. He co-founded Autism Explained, an organization that produces a podcast to explain scientific findings about autism to a lay audience. He is a long-time volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and has been active on Clemson’s College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences’ Alumni Board. He mentors Clemson students in the Calhoun Honors College and through the Tiger Ties program.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Joseph Cyrus Semsar, ’09

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Joseph Cyrus Semsar of Washington, DC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Deputy chief of staff for the United States Office of Personnel Management, Semsar oversees organizational and operational effectiveness. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Clemson and a Master’s of Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania’s Fels Institute of Government. Semsar began his career with Teach for America as a corps member and national staff member. Named Teacher of the Year, he helped bring NBC to his school for a $3 million renovation. A Coca-Cola Scholar, Semsar stays involved with the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation through coaching new scholars and training at the Leadership Development Institute. He served as president of Clemson’s Young Alumni Council and is now a board member of the Alumni Association.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Connelly-Anne Bartle Ragley, ’05, M ’08

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Connelly-Anne Bartle Ragley of Columbia, SC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

With a double-major in political science and communication studies, Ragley is a government relations associate at Denny Public Affairs. She is involved with the Junior League of Columbia and serves on the board of directors for Senior Resources Inc. Ragley has mentored students in Clemson’s College of Business and at the University of South Carolina while participating in Columbia College’s Institute for Leadership and Professional Excellence. Ragley has served as an at-large member of the Clemson Young Alumni Council and sponsored Clemson’s 2016 Fall Band Party in Greenville. She also hosts a luncheon each fall for the Clemson delegation of the South Carolina Student Legislature, in which she participated as an undergraduate.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Kevin Michael McKenzie, ’97, M ’01, Ed.D. ’10

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Kevin Michael McKenzie of Chesapeake, VA as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

With degrees in management, industrial management and career and technology education, McKenzie is vice president and chief information security officer of Dollar Tree Stores Inc. Formerly Clemson’s chief information security officer, McKenzie serves on the Strategic Advisory Board for the International Consortium of Minority Cybersecurity Professionals. He was previously a state constable reserve police officer; was named the Volunteer of the Year for Clemson University’s Police Department; and he serves as a deacon in his church. McKenzie taught courses at Clemson in information systems and has collaborated on numerous federal research grant proposals with Clemson faculty. He currently serves on Tidewater Community College Technology Advisory Board.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Steven McMillian Hughes ’17

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Steven McMillian Hughes of Columbia, SC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

A management major, Hughes founded and is director of program development for Know Money Inc., a nonprofit organization that educates millennials on managing and growing their money. He also has a weekly money segment on the CBS affiliate in Columbia. Hughes has partnered with Transitions South Carolina to help homeless clients build a financial foundation and become house-secure. Selected by the World Economic Forum to lead a global initiative called the Global Shapers Community, he is the founding curator of the Columbia hub. Hughes has worked with Clemson’s Emerging Scholars, Omega Psi Phi fraternity and the Clemson Career Workshop. He has also helped to start an endowment at Clemson to create scholarships for minority students.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

John Mark Hendrick III, ’08

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized John Mark Hendrick III of Chapin, SC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Director of governmental affairs for the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, Hendrick, a political science major, has worked on local, state and national political campaigns. He served as an aide to the lieutenant governor of South Carolina and as the director of public policy for the South Carolina Baptist Convention. A captain in the South Carolina State Guard, Hendrick also serves on the national council for the American Israel Public Affairs Commission and on the board of directors for the Coastline Women’s Center. He volunteers with the Lexington Sertoma Club; Katrina’s Kids; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Columbia; and First Baptist Church of Columbia. He is a past member of the Clemson Young Alumni Council and participates in the Second Century Society.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Adam Thomas Haldeman, ’09

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Adam Thomas Haldeman of Seneca, SC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

After majoring in ceramics and materials engineering, Haldeman joined Tetramer Technologies where he has led the development of more than 100 new advanced polymer materials. He co-founded H2 Home Help LLC, which rebuilds homes to restore families and revitalize communities in Upstate South Carolina and serves as an elder at United Assembly of God in Seneca. Haldeman has mentored Clemson students through internships, co-ops and the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates program. He serves on the Undergraduate Curriculum Advisory Board for Clemson’s materials science and engineering department and collaborated on research with Clemson’s Center for Advanced Fibers and Films.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Capt. Kevin Joseph Fitzsimmons, ’08

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Capt. Kevin Joseph Fitzsimmons of Swansboro, NC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

After graduating with a political science degree, Fitzsimmons joined the Marine Corps, serving in 1st Battalion, 8th Marines, and was deployed twice to Afghanistan. He was selected as the top lieutenant in the battalion and was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal; and the Combat Action Ribbon. He was then selected to serve as an instructor at The Basic School and Infantry Officers Course. Fitzsimmons is currently the weapons company commander for 2nd Battalion 6th Marines. He has volunteered for the Marine Corps Marathon and supports the Clemson chapter of Sigma Nu.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Elizabeth Armstrong Boylan, ’08

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Elizabeth Armstrong Boylan, of Houston, TX as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

A political science major with a career in government affairs, Boylan is currently the government and public affairs manager for North America at Solvay. She has volunteered with the Junior League of Houston; the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo; and the Former Texas Rangers Association. Boylan was president of the Houston Clemson Club for four years where she developed a scholarship for local students. She has supported Clemson’s Washington program in the political science department; the study abroad “Democracy Building in Post-Conflict Societies” course; and she co-founded, and is now chair of, the Clemson Balkan Foundation

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Suzanne Pickens Alvarez, ’11

October 30, 2017/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Suzanne Pickens Alvarez of Charlotte, NC as one of the 2017 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

A double-major in communication studies and business management, Alvarez works as a senior account executive in the Client Services Team at Luquire George Andrews in Charlotte. Her charitable work has raised more than $150,000 for the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Comprehensive Cancer Center; she was membership chair of the junior committee of the Shepherd Center Society; and she created an endowment to benefit Student Affairs at Clemson University. She serves on advisory boards for Greek life and student affairs at Clemson, as well as supporting Tiger Brotherhood and Blue Key.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Keenan Adams ’10

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Keenan Adams of Denver as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Adams received both a master’s degree in forest resources (2007) and a doctorate in wildlife and fisheries biology (2010) from Clemson. He is currently the supervisory wildlife biologist for the United Sates Fish and Wildlife Service of the National Wildlife Refuge System in Colorado.

Adam was described by his nominator, professor Patricia Layton, as a “superhero for wildlife conservation crisscrossing the country like a caped crusader on a vital mission.” In his role he is the division chief of biological resources for the Mountain-Prairie region, responsible for administering branches of wildlife health, inventory and monitoring of invasive species, ecological assessment and conservation planning.

Adams held many high-level positions in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, including assistant manager at Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge and deputy project leader for the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex in Vero Beach, Florida.

In 2014, Adams was promoted to division chief of biological resources for the Mountain-Prairie Region, becoming the youngest person ever selected for that position.

He gives regularly of his time and skills to many different community organizations, including the Omega Psi Phi service fraternity where he participates in the Omega Leadership Academy Mentorship Program which targets at-risk African-American middle- and high school-age males for mentorship, development of life skills and exposure to professional and college opportunities. He also provides pro-bono photography services for community projects and events through the local city council district.

He continues his loyalty to Clemson through research projects and published papers with his former Clemson faculty members. Recently, he traveled back to Clemson to perform a seminar to help students find employment with the federal government.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Manning Crapps ’06

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Lexington resident Manning Crapps one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Crapps received his degree in economics from Clemson in 2006 and began his banking career with BB&T, where he rose to become the financial center manager for the Northeast Columbia office. He now works at First Community Bank, where he is the bank’s expert in solutions for business retirement plans.

In 2010, Crapps was part of a group of Lexington residents in their mid-20s who formed the Lexington Beautification Foundation, a volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to beautifying the scenic and historic community of Lexington, as well as stimulating civic pride and teamwork. The group started the Lexington Wine Walk on Main, which has become a signature event in the town and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Crapps currently serves as the President of the Lexington County Clemson Club.

Manning also recently began his first term on the Clemson University Board of Visitors, a seat traditionally held by an older representative. Manning and wife, Katie (class of 2006), have a four-year-old daughter and four-month-old son, yet rarely miss an opportunity to spend time in Clemson, whether it’s a football game, other sports or alumni events.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Lily Eyraud ’12

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Lily Eyraud of Charlotte as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Eyraud graduated with a degree in financial management and accounting and is currently enrolled pursuing a Master of Business Administration through the Cross Continent Program at Duke University. She works as a financial planner at TIAA-CREF where she analyzes client finances up to $4 million in net worth and performs in the top three financial planners at the company.

Eyraud has served her community as a United Way Young Leaders Council member since 2013, is the communications lead for the Charlotte Clemson Club and has been a Regional Recruitment Coordinator for Gamma Phi Beta Sorority since 2014.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Capt. Nelson Faerber III ’09

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Capt. Nelson Faerber III of Tucson one of its 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Faerber graduated from Clemson with a construction science management degree in 2009 and went on to earn his law degree from Florida State University in 2013.

He was recruited by Coach Dabo Swinney and attended Clemson on a full athletic scholarship as a Clemson Tiger football player. He was named the Clemson Football 2008 Special Teams Player of the Year and was a three-time Special Teams Player of the Game. In addition, he was a three-time recipient of the athletic department’s Academic-Athletic Award for his on- and off-the-field efforts.

Soon after being commissioned an Air Force officer, JAG Corps deployed Faerber as deputy staff judge advocate for the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Freedom Sentinel and NATO’s Resolute Support Mission – a position typically held by attorneys well above his rank. During that deployment, he advised 43 commanders located at 12 forward operating bases.

In his career as an attorney, Faerber has provided free legal assistance to more than 230 clients. This work saved approximately $40,000 in legal fees. His support ranges from helping with wills, powers of attorney, landlord/tenant issues, divorce, adoption and many other legal issues.

He maintains his ties to Clemson as a member of the Tiger Letterwinners Association and the Arizona Clemson Club.

He currently serves in the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps as a judge advocate general, providing legal assistance to a community of more than 20,000 Airmen and their families.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Jamilah Frazier ’15

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Jamilah Frazier of North Charleston as one of its 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Frazier received her master’s degree in public administration from Clemson in 2015 and works at Charleston/Dorchester Mental Health, where she coordinates accreditation and quality improvement. She also owns her own business providing workplace CPR and first aid training.

She volunteers for several local organizations, including Bridges of SC (formerly Hospice of Charleston), the Charleston Area Justice Ministry, the YWCA and the Charleston chapter of Jack & Jill.

She maintains her ties to Clemson as an advisory member of the Charleston County Clemson Club, previously volunteered for Tigertown Bound receptions and worked with Clemson’s admissions office to recruit alumni for Clemson events in the area.

In 2015, she helped the Clemson Black Alumni Council coordinate the Clemson Minority Students Success Initiative Homecoming Panel Discussion/Networking Event in partnership with the Clemson Master of Public Administration Program and Clemson Online.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Paul Halphen ’10

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Greenville resident Paul Halphen as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Halphen received his degree in financial management from Clemson in 2010. He went to work for First Citizens Bank and Trust, where he was ranked second out of more than 200 leaders for new portfolio volume.

After spending three years with First Citizens, he joined Sun Solutions, a print and sign company, where he was consistently ranked in the top two among his team in sales.

He is currently an investment manager at Kairos Real Estate, responsible for acquisitions/dispositions, development and construction, and asset management.

Halphen gives his time and skills to multiple community and professional organizations. Current and past leadership positions include Greenville Chamber PULSE, SC Chamber of Commerce Business Week, City of Columbia Revolving Loan Committee, Greenville District 25 Housing Development, Youth Corps, LeadSC, and Healthy Learners.

He keeps close to his alma mater by serving on Clemson’s Library Leadership Board, mentoring students in its College of Business and previous service as President of the Columbia Clemson Club and the Clemson YAC.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Ben Leader ’10

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Ben Leader, of Charlotte, as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Leader received his bachelor’s degree in political science from Clemson in 2010 and his law degree from the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law in 2013. In law school, he was named a Webster’s Research Scholar and clerked for Chief Judge John C. Martin of the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

After law school, Leader served as a law clerk for the Judge John C. Hayes III of 16^th Judicial Circuit of South Carolina. Since September 2014, Leader has worked for the Elrod Pope Law Firm as an associate attorney. He is a member of the York County Bar, the North Carolina Association for Justice, the South Carolina Association for Justice and the South Carolina Injured Workers’ Advocates organizations.

Leader is a member of the Rotary Club of Rock Hill, where he serves on the administration committee. He also presents annual distracted driving presentations to local high school students in and around York County, and works to raise money for the Harper Gault Annual Scholarship. He currently serves on the executive board for the York County Clemson Club.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Maj. Brock Lusk ’15

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Maj. Brock Lusk of Walhalla as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Lusk went through Clemson’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history in 2002 and was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force. He came back to Clemson and earned his master’s degree in history 2015. In between, he served on multiple deployments in support of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and rose from the rank of second lieutenant to major.

Outside of the combat zones, he has held leadership positions in a wide range of Air Force units, including the 12^th Space Warning Squadron at Thule Air Base in Greenland, where he served as a missile warning crew commander; the 10^th Missile Squadron, where he was a missile combat crewmember in command of a flight of 10 nuclear-armed Minuteman III missiles; He worked for four years at Special Operations Command Central with multiple deployments across the Middle East, before transferring to the 315^th Operations Support Squadron as a traditional reservist.

Lusk currently serves as the director of operations and assistant professor of aerospace studies for the Clemson Air Force ROTC. He is responsible for training and counseling Air Force officer candidates through all aspects of the ROTC process. He teaches courses on leadership studies, national security and preparation for officer duty.

Lusk’s devotion to his alma mater is demonstrated by the countless hours he has devoted to a number of community projects:

He volunteered to organize a “ball run” in honor of Clemson’s Military Appreciation Day. This meant organizing a 30-mile relay run in which Clemson cadets ran a game day football from the Maj. Rudolph Anderson Jr. Memorial in Greenville to Memorial Stadium.
He organized a cleanup effort for a local cemetery where several veterans are buried. The cemetery was in extremely poor condition and his efforts ensure the veterans, many of whom are African-American, have a final resting place that honors their commitment and sacrifice.
He has given many lectures on Clemson World War I alumni history at the Pickens County Museum and meetings of the South Carolina Air Force Association and is currently enrolled to teach at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute.
He has devoted hundreds of hours to researching Clemson’s military alumni.
As a direct result of his research, seven additional names were added to Clemson’s Scroll of Honor. He also discovered an unknown fourth alumnus who had been awarded the Medal of Honor.
He is a member of the board of directors of the Clemson Corps, an alumni organization devoted to preserving Clemson’s military heritage and supporting its ROTC programs.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

David Newton ’10

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized David Newton of Mount Pleasant as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Newton earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Clemson in 2008 and a master’s degree in 2010. He is currently pursuing his master of business administration degree from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, where he enrolled as a 2017 merit fellowship recipient.

He has worked for Ingevity Corporation in Charleston since 2010 and has held several sales and leadership roles throughout that time. He started his career with Ingevity as an asphalt design and testing engineer and currently serves as a marketing and product manager for Ingevity’s North American asphalt modification business.

He served as an executive board member for the Carolina Youth Development Center and helped reshape the future of the Charleston Big Brothers and Big Sisters programs. He has also served on the Young Philanthropist Society Steering committee of the Trident United Way.

Newton has kept his ties to Clemson strong by remaining engaged with the Glenn Department of Civil Engineering, supporting a team of researchers in his field of asphalt pavements. He also stays involved with the varsity men’s soccer team for which he was team captain from 2007 to 2009.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Brian Park ’10

October 21, 2016/in The Roaring 10

The Clemson University Young Alumni Council (YAC) has recognized Brian Park of Atlanta as one of the 2016 “Roaring 10” – young alumni who have made an impact in business, leadership, community, educational and/or philanthropic endeavors.

Honorees were selected based on their continued efforts to uphold the university’s core values of honesty, integrity and respect and to demonstrate an “ever-loyal” relationship with Clemson University.

Park earned bachelor’s degrees from Clemson in economics and political science in 2010 and a master’s degree in economics in 2014. He carried his Clemson values to law school at the University of Virginia (JD, 2014), where he was elected president of the student body and served as an editor for the Virginia Environmental Law Journal. He also served as a peer adviser for an incoming section of first-year law students, guiding and mentoring a section of 30 students through their arduous first year of law school, and continues to serve as his class manager for the law school’s annual giving campaign efforts.

He is a corporate associate at King & Spalding LLP, where he represents both publicly traded and privately held companies in mergers and acquisitions, capital raising transactions and general corporate governance matters.

He volunteers his time serving with several community organizations. He was elected to the national Blue Key Honor Society board of directors and received the Gregory Lee Smith Exemplary Blue Key Member Award and Scholarship in 2011 in recognition of this hard work and accomplishments. He leads King & Spalding’s efforts in the Youth About Business program, where he coaches high school students as they structure and negotiate a mock business transaction.

The primary mission of Clemson YAC is to support the goals of the Clemson Alumni Association specifically on matters pertaining to Young Alumni. Clemson YAC exists to connect Young Alumni with the University, assist Young Alumni in the transition from active student to alumnus, facilitate fellowship, personal growth and professional development opportunities for young alumni and formally represent Young Alumni interests to the Clemson Alumni Council. The purpose of these efforts is to affect seminal influence on young alumni so they may continue to be connected and contributing alumni for a better Clemson throughout their lives.

Captain Joseph Branch II ’05

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Captain Joseph Branch II is a 2005 Clemson graduate and a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School. He has been deployed eight times since graduation in 2005. Over the years he has been selected for the most coveted duty positions in his profession and his outstanding performance in the U.S. Army Special Operations command led to his selection as an Army Inter-Agency Fellowship with the National Geo-Spacial Agency where he is assigned today.

He remains active in local veteran affairs initiatives in the military communities where he resides. He was responsible for over 20 community engagement events annually in the Savannah area for Ranger families and the local communities. He and his family are also very active in their church community. He is an avid supporter of Clemson’s ROTC program and Tiger athletics. He is able to provide both formal and informal mentoring to Clemson alumni in the military. When able, he and his family travel back to Clemson for athletic events.

Jessica Barron Martin ’07, M’09

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Jessica Barron Martin is a 2007 undergraduate and 2009 graduate of Clemson University, this honoree is an engaged and active member of her community. She graduated from Clemson’s Masters of Real Estate Development program and began her career with Wells Fargo as an analyst in the real estate group in Central Florida. When in Florida, she was a weekly volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida, served on the Key Initiative Board for Ronald McDonald House, and was President of the Greater Orlando Clemson Club.

Now serving as Vice President in Wells Fargo’s real estate group and living in Charleston, she is a Board Member of the Carolina Youth Development Center (the oldest publicly funded orphanage in the United States), President of Clemson in the Lowcountry, a Board Member of Clemson University’s Real Estate Alumni Society, and former Co-Chair of Wells Fargo Lowcountry Volunteer Chapter.

Harrison Trammell ’06

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Harrison Trammell is a 2006 graduate of Clemson University in Civil Engineering, this honoree is an associate at Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, LLP in Charleston, SC. After graduating from Clemson, he continued his education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Law. He has numerous professional credentials to his name including his Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) AP credential and he is a part of the U.S. Green Building Council in the South Carolina Chapter.

His dedication to his community is evident in his service to his church, Mount Pleasant Presbyterian, where he is on the Stewardship Campaign Committee and part of the Net Ministry Team.

He was highly dedicated to Clemson as a student and has continued his commitment to Clemson after graduation. During his time at Clemson, he was a member of Blue Key Honor Society and was the Tigerama Director in 2005, one of the nation’s largest student-run pep rallies. He was also a member and President of the Student Alumni Council. After graduating he was an at-large member of the Clemson Alumni Council from 2012-2014 and President of the Clemson Young Alumni Council from 2013-2014.

Dr. Darris Means M’07

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Dr. Darris Means is highly committed to post-secondary education and Clemson University. He graduated from Elon University in 2005 with his Bachelor of Arts in political science and sociology, and graduated from Clemson in 2007 with his Master of Education degree in Counselor Education with a concentration in Student Affairs. Following that, he received his PhD from North Carolina State University in Educational Research and Policy Analysis with concentration in higher education.

He then went to work with the Elon Academy, a university based college access and success program at Elon University for high school students with a financial need and no family history of college. He helped gain a 100% rate of the students in the program being accepted and enrolled in college. He is now an assistant professor at the University of Georgia in the Department of Counseling and Human Development Services and College Student Affairs Administration Program. He has received numerous awards over the years including Clemson University’s Outstanding Alumni for the Master of Education/Student Affairs Program. He currently serves Clemson on the Higher Education/Student Affairs advisory board.

Matthew Bundrick ’07

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Matthew Bundrick is a 2007 Clemson graduate in Graphic Communications who currently serves as the Director of University Web Services at Clemson, managing a team of talented professionals who design, develop, and support www.clemson.edu. In his previous position as assistant director, he played a critical role in the website’s redesigns and success with strategic initiatives such as the Degrees Site, Newsstand, ClemsonTV and the Master Calendar. He has also been highly involved with the Staff Senate since 2010 and served as President from 2014-2015.

While representing Clemson University staff, he led efforts for Clemson being recognized as a “Mother-friendly Employer” by the SC Breastfeeding Coalition and which contributed to staff giving dollar amount increasing 20% in a single year. He is a certified member of Clemson Young Professionals. He is dedicated not only to his Clemson University community, but also his local community where he serves as a volunteer firefighter in Oconee and Anderson counties.

Matthew Pencek ’10

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Matthew Pencek graduated #1 from the Calhoun Honors College in 2010 with a 4.0 GPA in Accounting. He passed his CPA exam immediately after graduation and started post-grad at a Big 4 accounting firm, KPMG. He was later recruited by MorganFranklin Consulting where he now leads teams of consultants that advise businesses who are transitioning from private to public companies.

He is a leader in the field for MorganFranklin and has been an integral part of many high profile IPOs. He has been nominated as a ‘Top Consultant Under 35’ by trade associations. He has a heart for service and works with Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, and Junior Achievement where he has served as a fundraising lead for MorganFranklin in order to teach financial literacy to underprivileged youth.

He stays involved with Clemson through the Baltimore/DC Clemson Club where he has coordinated volunteer events. He is also a CBBS mentor through the Tiger Ties program and currently advises a junior business student, putting his mentee in touch with his professional contacts. He also stays involved with Tiger Brotherhood and Blue Key Honor Society, organizations with which he was involved while in Clemson.

Scott Sampson ’08, M’10

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Scott Sampson graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications Studies in 2008 and received his Master in Human Resource Development in 2010 from Clemson. He started working for Clemson University five years ago where he started as the Phonathon Director in the Annual Giving office for the first 2.5 years.

During this time, he helped to increase the program’s revenue by 32%. He then moved into a position as Young Alumni Annual Giving Officer where he has put together many events that bring young alumni together, teaching them the importance of private giving. Young alumni giving has increased each year while he has been in this position. He volunteers at his local church and is highly involved in the student chapter of the Clemson Fellowship of Christian athletes. He served on the student leadership team as a senior in college and this fall, he will join the Adult Chapter of FCA to better serve this dynamic organization.

After volunteering in the Alumni, Annual Giving, Public Affairs and Donor Services offices while in school, he now serves Clemson University both as an employee and as an ambassador with passion and devotion to the school. He enjoys giving campus tours to prospective students and families.

Stephanie Sox ’07

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Stephanie Sox graduated from Clemson in 2007 in Agricultural Education and then began working for the SC Department of Agriculture as a Market News Reporter. She worked closely with Clemson Extension agents across South Carolina to present the program at local and regional Cattemen’s meetings. In 2011, she accepted the position of Executive Director of the South Carolina Soybean Board. She works for the 1800 soybean farmers of the state and is responsible for administering the soy checkoff program. She also serves as the Certified SC Grown Palmetto Series project manager where she acts as the liaison between Clemson and Carolina sports marketing departments and SCDA.

Because of her dedication to the agricultural industry, she was selected as a 2014 National Top Ten Finalist for the American Farm Bureau Excellence in Agriculture Award. She is involved in many philanthropic endeavors including being an active member of Farm Bureau, a member of Spring Hill Young Farmers, and an active member of her church where she plays the flute in the church orchestra. She continues to give back to the university by being a guest lecturer for an agricultural education class each year since graduation. She is also a College of Agriculture Forestry and Life Sciences (CAFLS) Alumni Board member.

Rick Joye ’97, M’07

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Rick Joye graduated in 1997 with a degree in Chemical Engineering and again in 2007 with his Master in Business Administration (4.0 GPA). He is an executive at Michelin North America where he has held a variety of leadership and managerial roles. He is currently a supply chain manager responsible for ten manufacturing plants in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. From transforming the industrial supply chain to managing the Greenville plant through the 2008 downturn, he has had a significant impact on Michelin’s business throughout his career.

He is the founder, chairman, and executive director for Sustaining Way, an interfaith non-profit that brings together diverse individuals and organizations to find and proliferate affordable ways to care for people while caring for the environment. They do this through working with their partners in the purchase and upgrade of an underutilized property in a strategic location and the employment of an individual with skills and passion for sustainability.

This individual lives in the home and serves as the house coordinator. The home and landscape is sustainably remodeled to serve as an education center, demonstration site, and base of operations for the coordinator in working with the community to proliferate sustainable practices. With over 35 partners, their initial project, Annie’s House, is located just off the Swamp Rabbit Trail in the historic downtown Greenville, SC neighborhood of Nicholtown. Rick also serves on the board of directors for Genesis Homes, an affordable housing provider in the Upstate. While in college, he was dedicated to Clemson by serving on Clemson’s Student Engineering Advisory Council. After graduation, he served on the Clemson’s MBA Corporate Board.

Brian Collie ’04, M’06

October 20, 2015/in The Roaring 10

Brian Collie graduated with a mechanical engineering degree from Clemson in 2004 and then received his Master of Business Administration degree from Clemson in 2006. He went on to receive his Juris Doctorate at Charleston School of Law followed by his Master of Laws degree in Taxation from the University of Alabama School of Law. He now leads the tax, estate planning, and real estate practice for Buxton and Collie, LLC, a boutique law firm in Mount Pleasant. He was recently recognized by the Charleston Regional Business Journal as one of the Charleston Region’s 2015 “40 Under 40.”

He has also achieved an AV peer review rating as an attorney, the highest rating of national legal service provider, Martindale-Hubbell. He is a sponsor, donor, and ambassador for The Clemson Emerging Scholars Program. He also spends time in service with the Charleston Kiwanis Club, where he holds a chair on their Board of Directors. He has also served as a member of the Clemson University MBA Alumni Council.