Clemson University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Clemson University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Clemson University advances its mission as a premier research institution, fostering innovation and providing comprehensive educational programs across diverse fields to shape future leaders and contribute to societal progress.

Leadership Roles at Clemson University

  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Regina Steele
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jason Eichelberger
  • President - James Barker
  • President - Webb Smathers
  • President - Abigail Sanches
  • President - Jack Greiner
  • President - Isabella Marusich
  • Chief of Staff - Toby Kirkland
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Clemson Leadership Signature Program & Chief Marketing Officer - Dillan Smith
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer, Clemson Computing & Information Technology - Carla Rathbone
  • Regina Steele - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Regina Steele, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Clemson University, directs the comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal management of the institution. Steele oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, treasury functions, and financial planning, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainability of Clemson University. This critical role involves managing the university's assets, investments, and revenue streams to support its extensive research, educational programs, and campus development. By providing strategic financial guidance, Steele ensures that resources are allocated effectively to advance the university's mission in science, engineering, and beyond. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer's responsibilities include maintaining compliance with financial regulations, managing risk, and optimizing financial performance to support long-term institutional goals. Regina Steele's leadership ensures the financial integrity and operational capacity of Clemson University, enabling its continued growth and impact.

    Jason Eichelberger - Chief Operating Officer

    Jason Eichelberger, the Chief Operating Officer at Clemson University, directs the operational framework supporting the institution's extensive educational and research initiatives. Eichelberger oversees the efficient functioning of campus services, administrative departments, and resource allocation, ensuring seamless integration across all university operations. This leadership role involves optimizing processes to enhance productivity and support the strategic goals of the university, aligning with its land-grant mission. By managing day-to-day operations, Eichelberger ensures that faculty and students have the necessary resources to pursue academic and scientific advancements. The Chief Operating Officer's focus remains on driving operational excellence and fostering an environment conducive to learning and discovery, directly impacting the university's ability to deliver high-quality educational programs and conduct impactful research. Eichelberger's strategic oversight extends to facilities management and campus infrastructure development, crucial for supporting Clemson University's growth and its commitment to science and engineering.

    James Barker - President

    James Barker, the President at Clemson University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic, research, and operational endeavors. Barker guides the university in fulfilling its land-grant mission, fostering an environment of innovation, and advancing its standing as a premier science- and engineering-oriented research university. This executive role involves setting institutional priorities, overseeing major initiatives, and ensuring the university's continued growth and impact. By championing academic excellence and research endeavors, Barker cultivates a culture of discovery and learning. The President's responsibilities extend to external relations, including engagement with government, industry, and alumni, to secure resources and support for Clemson University's objectives. James Barker's vision and leadership are instrumental in shaping the future of the university and its contributions to society.

    Webb Smathers - President

    Webb Smathers, the President at Clemson University, leads the institution with a focus on advancing its strategic objectives and enhancing its academic and research prominence. Smathers directs the university's efforts to provide comprehensive educational programs and certificates, emphasizing science and engineering disciplines. This leadership position involves guiding institutional development, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring the university's responsiveness to evolving societal needs. By setting a clear vision, Smathers promotes a culture of excellence and innovation among faculty and students. The President's role includes advocating for the university's interests, building key partnerships, and overseeing the effective allocation of resources to support its mission. Webb Smathers' strategic guidance is crucial for maintaining Clemson University's position as a leading research institution and driving its continued success.

    Abigail Sanches - President

    Abigail Sanches, the President at Clemson University, provides executive leadership and strategic vision to guide the institution's comprehensive mission. Sanches oversees the university's commitment to research, education, and public service, ensuring alignment with its land-grant heritage and focus on science and engineering. This role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering a dynamic academic environment, and driving initiatives that enhance the university's impact. By championing innovation and academic rigor, Sanches cultivates opportunities for faculty and student success. The President's responsibilities include managing key relationships with stakeholders, securing necessary resources, and ensuring the effective operation of all university divisions. Abigail Sanches' leadership is vital for advancing Clemson University's reputation and its contributions to knowledge and societal progress.

    Jack Greiner - President

    Jack Greiner, the President at Clemson University, directs the strategic trajectory and operational excellence of the institution. Greiner champions the university's core mission of providing advanced educational programs and conducting impactful research, particularly in science and engineering fields. This leadership position involves setting institutional goals, fostering a collaborative academic community, and ensuring the university's continued growth and relevance. By prioritizing innovation and student success, Greiner cultivates an environment where groundbreaking discoveries and transformative learning experiences flourish. The President's responsibilities include engaging with external partners, managing institutional resources, and overseeing the implementation of strategic initiatives. Jack Greiner's guidance is essential for maintaining Clemson University's status as a leading research institution and expanding its influence.

    Isabella Marusich - President

    Isabella Marusich, the President at Clemson University, provides decisive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's multifaceted operations. Marusich guides Clemson University in its pursuit of academic distinction and groundbreaking research, with a particular emphasis on science and engineering disciplines. This executive role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring the university's capacity to address complex global challenges. By championing educational excellence and research advancement, Marusich empowers faculty and students to achieve their full potential. The President's responsibilities include cultivating strategic partnerships, overseeing resource management, and driving initiatives that enhance the university's societal impact. Isabella Marusich's leadership is fundamental to Clemson University's ongoing success and its commitment to shaping the future.

    Toby Kirkland - Chief of Staff

    Toby Kirkland, the Chief of Staff at Clemson University, serves as a key advisor and strategic partner to the university's leadership, facilitating the execution of institutional priorities. Kirkland manages critical projects, coordinates interdepartmental initiatives, and ensures effective communication across the university's diverse academic and administrative units. This role involves streamlining operations and enhancing organizational effectiveness to support Clemson University's mission of research and education. By acting as a central point of coordination, Kirkland drives strategic alignment and operational efficiency, enabling leadership to focus on long-term vision and development. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing for board meetings, managing executive calendars, and overseeing special assignments that advance the university's objectives. Kirkland's strategic input and operational support are vital for navigating the complexities of a major research institution and ensuring its continued success in science and engineering fields.

    Dillan Smith - Chief Marketing Officer, Clemson Leadership Signature Program & Chief Marketing Officer

    Dillan Smith, the Chief Marketing Officer, Clemson Leadership Signature Program & Chief Marketing Officer at Clemson University, spearheads the strategic marketing and communication efforts for both the university and its specialized leadership program. Smith develops and executes comprehensive marketing strategies designed to enhance brand visibility, attract prospective students, and promote the university's extensive educational offerings and research achievements. This dual role involves crafting compelling narratives that highlight Clemson University's strengths in science and engineering, as well as the unique value proposition of the leadership program. By overseeing digital marketing, public relations, and brand management, Smith ensures consistent messaging across all platforms. The Chief Marketing Officer's leadership drives engagement with key stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community, reinforcing Clemson University's position as a leading research institution. Dillan Smith's expertise is critical in communicating the impact of the university's programs and fostering a strong institutional identity.

    Carla Rathbone - Deputy Chief Information Officer, Clemson Computing & Information Technology

    Carla Rathbone, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Clemson Computing & Information Technology at Clemson University, plays a pivotal role in advancing the institution's technological infrastructure and digital services. Rathbone collaborates with the Chief Information Officer to develop and implement IT strategies that support Clemson University's research, teaching, and administrative functions. This leadership position involves overseeing the delivery of essential IT services, managing technology projects, and ensuring the security and reliability of the university's digital environment. By focusing on innovation and efficiency, Rathbone enhances the technological capabilities available to students, faculty, and staff, thereby supporting academic excellence and scientific discovery. The Deputy Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing IT operations, supporting enterprise systems, and driving the adoption of new technologies to meet the evolving needs of a major research university. Carla Rathbone's contributions are essential for maintaining Clemson University's technological edge and facilitating its educational and research missions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Clemson University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Clemson University?
    Clemson University is led by Regina Steele (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), along with executives such as Jason Eichelberger (Chief Operating Officer) and James Barker (President).
    Who is part of Clemson University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Clemson University includes leaders such as Regina Steele (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer), Jason Eichelberger (Chief Operating Officer), James Barker (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Clemson University have?
    Clemson University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Clemson University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Clemson University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Chief Operating Officer, President, President, President.