Clemson President Tumbles with Daughter at Graduation Ceremony

CLEMSON, S.C. – Clemson University President James Clements became an internet sensation during his daughter Grace’s graduation on Thursday.

A video posted on social media captured the moment Grace excitedly ran up to her father, resulting in both of them tumbling to the stage. The crowd responded with cheers as the president helped his daughter up, kissed her on the head, and embraced her again.

Grace graduated alongside eight peers from the ClemsonLIFE program, designed to support students with intellectual disabilities in gaining independence and job skills. “ClemsonLIFE teaches independence, job skills… and apparently, how to sack a university president,” Clements joked in his Instagram post.

The program gained attention last fall when another student, Charlie, celebrated being accepted into his fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha. Grace was also active in Greek life, having been a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority for three years. The sorority honored Grace after her graduation, stating, “What a privilege it has been having her as our sister. We love you SO much and can’t wait to see all you accomplish!”

This heartwarming graduation incident highlights the supportive community at Clemson University while also celebrating the achievements of students in the ClemsonLIFE program.