Ethics In Action Award

In 2014, the Rutland Institute for Ethics Advisory Board elected to name the Institute’s highest honor after James F. Barker, the 14th president of Clemson University, in recognition of the ways he exemplified integrity, thereby bringing ethics into focus in the best possible way: by living it. The award recognized individuals who have made an impact in ethical leadership and/or ethical decision-making. It was an opportunity to celebrate someone who embodies what we want our Clemson student body to emulate. The award was given annually, and was one of the largest programs operated by the Rutland Institute for Ethics.

Past Winners:

2012- Ida Spruill, Assistant Professor, College of Nursing Medical University of South Carolina (given as the Bringing Ethics Into Focus award)
2014- James F. Barker, 14th President, Clemson University
2015- Scott T. Dishman, Founder, The Family Effect
2016- Minor Mickel Shaw, philanthropist and community leader
2018- Joseph P. Riley Jr., former Mayor, Charleston
2019- Tobin Cassells III, CEO, Southeastern Freight Lines Inc.
2020- Dabo Swinney, Head Coach, Clemson Football