West Virginia University president James Clements will become the university’s next leader beginning January 2014 after outgoing President Jim Barker steps down.

Clements earned a B.S. degree in computer science and an M.S. and Ph.D. in operations analysis from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). Prior to accepting the role of president at WVU, Clements served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Towson University.

Clemson officials and employees expressed much enthusiasm over the decision and believe his personality and leadership qualities are the “right fit” for the institution.

“We are honored to be coming into a great university that has such a great history and I know it has a great future. So we’re thrilled to be part of the Clemson family,” said Clements.

Read the full release from WVU »