Clemson University Cleared of Wrongdoing in Newry Development Controversy

State Inspector General finds no violations, but recommends increased transparency

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:18pm

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The South Carolina Office of Inspector General has concluded its investigation into Clemson University's involvement in the Newry development controversy, finding the university was not involved in any wrongdoing or violations regarding the proposed 600-acre, 5,200-home project. However, the OIG recommended Clemson increase transparency around external development proposals and require annual disclosures from university personnel.

Why it matters

The Newry development project had drawn scrutiny from local residents and officials due to its scale and potential impact on the small town. The OIG investigation aimed to determine if Clemson improperly influenced or participated in the project, which the university had previously stated it had minimal interest in.

The details

The OIG investigation found that Clemson was approached by developers associated with United Homes Group in 2023 about the Newry project, which included plans for residential homes, a village center, a charter school, and a Clemson satellite campus. However, the university stated it had only participated in preliminary discussions and the developer's pursuit of an arrangement with Clemson ended by November 2024. The OIG concluded Clemson 'did not initiate contact, offer endorsements, or engage in any form of advocacy or decision-making on the project.'

  • The OIG investigation was launched in early 2025.
  • The OIG released its concluding statement on April 2, 2026.

The players

South Carolina Office of Inspector General

The state government agency that conducted the investigation into Clemson University's involvement in the Newry development project.

Clemson University

The public research university located in Clemson, South Carolina, which was the subject of the OIG investigation.

United Homes Group

The development company that proposed the Newry project and approached Clemson about a potential partnership.

Jim Clements

The former president of Clemson University, who was examined by the OIG for his involvement in the Newry project.

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What’s next

The OIG recommended that Clemson amend its disclosure requirements for the university president to mandate annual written disclosures of outside employment or compensated professional activities. The university was also advised to adopt a university-wide policy requiring all personnel to complete an annual affirmative attestation of any outside employment or compensated professional activities.

The takeaway

While Clemson was cleared of any wrongdoing in the Newry development controversy, the investigation highlighted the need for increased transparency and disclosure requirements at the university level to avoid potential conflicts of interest or undue influence on major local development projects.