Meet the Team: Clemson Turregano

Introducing Dr. Clemson Turregano, a key figure at Furman’s Center for Innovative Leadership (CIL), whose remarkable career has shaped his current role in global leadership development. With over 30 years of experience, Clemson brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the CIL team. Holding a master’s and PhD in political science, a master’s in public administration, and a master’s in strategy and security, he is a seasoned professional with a unique blend of academic expertise and real-world experience. We sat down with Clemson to learn more about his experience, professional insight and his role with the CIL.

As a combat commander in the U.S. Army, Clemson learned firsthand the crucial role of leadership in military operations. Reflecting on his military career, he emphasizes the importance of training new leaders and instilling a leadership DNA that is inherent in the military culture. Transitioning to civilian leadership development, he discovered a passion for understanding the intricacies of organizational dynamics and the motivations behind human behavior.

During his time at the Center for Creative Leadership, Clemson faced one of his most challenging yet fulfilling projects: the Boundary Spanning Leadership Experience in Baghdad, Iraq. Tasked with bringing together every senior leader from the Department of Defense and the Department of State in Iraq, he successfully orchestrated a program that facilitated crucial conversations and set the foundation for the U.S. removal of combat forces from Iraq in 2010. This achievement, documented in military and State Department history books, showcased his ability to navigate complex scenarios and achieve international impact.

When it comes to client relationships, Clemson emphasizes the importance of building trust and understanding the client’s needs. His approach involves creating meaningful connections, finding similarities and maintaining relationships even after periods of non-engagement. He takes pleasure in sustaining connections with colleagues across the globe, engaging in conversations about life and shared interests, and checking in with one another. Clemson's experience also reflects the joy of having individuals he hasn't collaborated with in years reach out to him, expressing a desire to work together again. These conversations not only rekindle past professional connections but also serve as a testament to the enduring nature of the relationships he builds.

As a senior leadership fellow at CIL, Clemson plays a multifaceted role. Collaborating with the CIL team, he provides valuable insights on teams, facilitates programs and works directly with clients. His involvement extends to developing and delivering programs with coaching components, further enhancing the leadership development experience.

What sets the CIL apart, according to Clemson, is its unique position as the sole provider of senior-level executive development in Upstate South Carolina. Drawn to Furman University by the opportunity to address the absence of local leadership development opportunities, Clemson praises the dynamic team assembled by executive director Garrett Stern and their innovative approach to leadership development. For Clemson, the most exciting aspect of the CIL lies in its team's ability to think outside the box and explore new avenues for leadership development. Their experience-driven approach goes beyond traditional classroom settings, adapting to the ever-changing societal landscape.

Dr. Clemson Turregano's journey from military leadership to shaping innovative leadership programs for the CIL exemplifies a commitment to excellence and a passion for developing world-class leaders who can thrive in a dynamic environment. His impact, both in international endeavors and local executive development, underscores the importance of adaptive leadership in today's world. As the CIL continues to pave the way for leadership excellence, Clemson remains a driving force, contributing his expertise and insight to the next generation of leaders.