TO HONOR LEON E. WILES, CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER FOR CLEMSON UNIVERSITY, ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT, TO EXTEND DEEP APPRECIATION FOR HIS MANY YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE TO THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TO OFFER BEST WISHES FOR A SATISFYING AND REWARDING RETIREMENT.

Whereas, for many years, the State of South Carolina has enjoyed the benefit of the dedication, experience, and leadership of Leon E. Wiles, chief diversity officer for Clemson University, who soon will be retiring after an outstanding career in public service; and

Whereas, in preparation for his career, Mr. Wiles completed his bachelor's degree in psychology, cum laude, from Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas. He earned a master's degree in counselor education from the University of Pittsburgh with high honors and has completed much further study in higher-education administration, management, and other subjects; and

Whereas, during the course of his career, he has served in a professional capacity at seven institutions of higher learning as an academic advisor, counselor, teacher, and administrator. He came to Spartanburg to assume the post of dean of students at the University of South Carolina Upstate, later being promoted to vice chancellor for student and diversity affairs before becoming chief diversity officer for Clemson University; and

Whereas, throughout his career, Mr. Wiles has distinguished himself as an outstanding administrator, effective change agent, and dedicated diversity professional. He served as the administrative advocate and leader for the University of South Carolina Upstate's comprehensive diversity action plan, which was successfully initiated and fully implemented over a thirteen-year period, beginning in 1994. The implementation of this plan resulted in a significant increase in both minority students and minority faculty and staff appointments at the university; created more diverse curricular offerings; established a women's studies center, equal opportunity programs office, and multicultural affairs office; and brought revitalization of the international studies center; and

Whereas, Leon Wiles and Clemson University have received numerous awards for the success of the university's diversity plan, among them recognition for five consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report for educational excellence and diversity; and

Whereas, Mr. Wiles has authored articles on diversity in national publications and has made numerous presentations and consulted with various institutions in his areas of expertise; and

Whereas, Leon Wiles believes strongly in personal involvement with his community and demonstrates his commitment through service in a number of organizations. Past and present affiliations include the South Carolina Minority Affairs Advisory Council, 100 Black Men of the Upstate, City of Clemson Joint University and City Advisory Board, and Clemson University Hispanic Taskforce. In addition, he chairs the Greenville County Compact4 Change, Clemson University United Way Campaign, and Macedonia Baptist Church Foundation Board; and

Whereas, the House of Representatives is grateful for the legacy of consistent commitment and leadership Leon Wiles has bestowed on the people of South Carolina. Taking great pleasure in wishing him all the best as he enters retirement, the members trust he will find much enjoyment in the more leisurely pace of the days ahead. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

That the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, honor Leon E. Wiles, chief diversity officer for Clemson University, on the occasion of his retirement, extend deep appreciation for his many years of distinguished public service to the State of South Carolina, and offer best wishes for a satisfying and rewarding retirement.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Leon E. Wiles.