Clemson University has awarded the prestigious Class of ’39 Award for Excellence to Joseph Ryan, recognizing his significant contributions to the institution and the broader community. This award, established by the Class of 1939 on its 50th anniversary in 1989, honors a faculty member each year whose outstanding service over a five-year period is acknowledged by peers.
Joseph Ryan serves as the Sue Stanzione Distinguished Professor in Clemson University’s College of Education. He is also the founder and executive director of ClemsonLIFE (Learning is for Everyone), a leading post-secondary education program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. The success of ClemsonLIFE has influenced over 100 colleges and universities worldwide, helping them establish or enhance similar programs on their campuses.
“Dr. Ryan exemplifies Clemson University’s mission to serve students and our state,” said Kristin Gehsmann, Dean of the College of Education. “His visionary leadership in creating ClemsonLIFE has transformed opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and his scholarship and advocacy have influenced policy at the highest levels.”
In 2024, Ryan was named a U.S. Fulbright Scholar to Ireland and has published more than 100 scholarly articles. He has edited the journal *Beyond Behavior* for the past 12 years, and his research on crisis interventions has resulted in policy changes in states such as Louisiana, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. His work has also contributed to proposed federal legislation and expert opinions for federal court rulings aimed at improving the safety of students from minority groups and those with disabilities.
Beyond his academic achievements, Ryan has initiated several adaptive sports programs and the Clemson Letterbox Club, an educational program for children in foster care. He volunteers as a Guardian ad Litem for children who have experienced abuse or neglect and is a retired Captain in the United States Navy Reserve. Additionally, he serves as the faculty advisor and instructor for the Clemson University Flying Club, the oldest flying club in the nation.
Ryan’s name will be inscribed on the monument located in the Carillon Garden at Clemson University, symbolizing his lasting impact on the campus community.
Antonis Katsiyannis, who nominated Ryan for the award, highlighted his interdisciplinary scholarship in special education and his extensive community engagement. “His sustained superior performance and esteemed accomplishments have brought great credit upon himself and Clemson University,” Katsiyannis stated. “Dr. Ryan embodies the spirit of excellence and altruism displayed by the great Class of ’39.”
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Ryan commented, “I am extremely honored and humbled to receive the Class of ’39 Award, especially given that the members of this class exemplify the principle of serving others for the greater good. I can only hope that my contributions to Clemson University and the larger community through my teaching, scholarship, and service over the last 20 years could be considered worthy to be a part of this distinguished community of honorees.”
A reception honoring Ryan will take place on December 16, 2024, celebrating his remarkable achievements and contributions to the university and beyond.
