Elite Clemson is not just for the gifted anymore

Clemson is now helping impaired students excel. Intellectual impairment refers to limitations in mental functioning and adaptive skills. No wonder his peers have named Joseph Ryan the Class of ’39 Award of Excellence.

Imagine a major university finding ways to incorporate practical lessons for people with impairments.

Ryan is the Sue Stanzione Distinguished Professor at Clemson University’s College of Education. He is the founder and executive director of the ClemsonLIFE™ (Learning is for Everyone) program, one of the nation’s premier post-secondary education programs for young adults with intellectual disabilities. The program’s success has led ClemsonLIFE to mentor over 100 colleges and universities worldwide, helping them open or expand similar programs on their campuses.

The award, endowed by the Class of 1939 to commemorate its 50th anniversary in 1989, is presented annually to one distinguished faculty member whose outstanding contributions for five years have been judged by peers to represent the highest service achievement to the student body, the University, and the larger community.

His scholarship and advocacy have influenced policy at the highest levels. The Award for Excellence is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary impact on the campus and beyond, and peers are proud to celebrate this honor,” said Antonis Katsiyannis, who nominated Ryan for the award.