Clemson University has named Todd Usher, a nationally recognized builder and four-time alumnus, as the new director of its Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program. The appointment places an experienced leader in sustainable construction at the helm of a key program within the College of Architecture, Art and Construction.
Usher brings over three decades of combined industry, entrepreneurial, and academic experience to the role. His background is deeply rooted in high-performance building practices, a focus expected to shape the future direction of the university's real estate education.
Key Takeaways
- Todd Usher, a four-time Clemson graduate, will lead the Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program.
- He is the founder of Addison Homes, a firm known for its award-winning sustainable construction.
- Usher plans to grow student enrollment and increase engagement with the real estate development community.
- The appointment signals a continued emphasis on sustainable and resilient building practices within the program.
A Leader with Deep Roots in Sustainable Building
Todd Usher is not new to the intersection of academia and practical application. He is the founder and president of Addison Homes, a Greenville-based company that has carved out a niche in high-performance and resilient construction. The firm's work has earned it significant recognition over the years.
Under his leadership, Addison Homes has received multiple U.S. Department of Energy Housing Innovation Awards. The company has also been honored by the National Association of Home Builders and the U.S. Green Building Council, cementing its reputation as a leader in sustainable building methods.
What is High-Performance Construction?
High-performance building, a core part of Usher's expertise, focuses on designing and constructing homes and buildings that are highly energy-efficient, durable, and provide excellent indoor air quality. This approach often involves advanced building science, superior insulation, high-efficiency windows, and airtight construction to reduce long-term operating costs and environmental impact.
This industry experience is complemented by a robust academic foundation, much of which was built at Clemson. Usher holds a Ph.D. in planning, design and the built environment, a master’s degree in construction science and management, and a master's in business administration, all from the university he will now serve in a leadership capacity.
Shaping the Future of Real Estate Development Education
Since 2021, Usher has been a faculty member in the MRED program, teaching graduate-level courses. His classes have covered construction operations, building systems, and sustainable real estate practices, giving students direct access to his specialized knowledge.
In his new role as director, Usher has outlined a clear vision for the program's growth. He aims to expand its influence by increasing both student numbers and the opportunities available to them.
"The future of the MRED program is bright. We’re focused on growing both student enrollment and student opportunities — from increased engagement with the real estate development community to expanded involvement in academic and applied research."
A key part of his strategy involves bridging the gap between graduate studies and undergraduate education. Usher mentioned plans for new course offerings and the potential for a new minor in real estate development, which would introduce core concepts to a broader student audience earlier in their academic careers.
Program Expansion Goals
- Increase Student Enrollment: Grow the size and diversity of the MRED student body.
- Community Engagement: Foster stronger ties with real estate professionals and firms.
- Research Opportunities: Expand student involvement in applied and academic research projects.
- Undergraduate Outreach: Develop new courses and a potential minor to attract undergraduate interest.
A Blend of Scholarly and Applied Knowledge
University leadership has expressed confidence that Usher's unique background will be a significant asset. Ece Erdogmus, dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Construction, highlighted the value of his combined expertise.
"Todd brings a rare blend of scholarly research, applied knowledge and real-world leadership," Erdogmus stated. "His focus on sustainable development and stakeholder collaboration will continue to elevate the MRED program’s impact across the region and the nation."
This dual focus is critical in a field like real estate development, where theoretical knowledge must be balanced with the practical realities of construction, finance, and market dynamics. Usher's career demonstrates this balance, as he not only builds sustainable homes but also consults for other professionals through Addison Consulting, helping them adopt high-performance, building science-driven standards.
His role as a frequent speaker at national building science and energy efficiency conferences further positions him as a thought leader whose insights will now directly shape the curriculum and direction of the MRED program.
A Lifelong Connection to Clemson
Beyond his professional qualifications, Usher brings a deep personal connection to the university. As a four-time graduate, his history with Clemson spans a significant portion of his life and career. He described this connection as a powerful motivator in his new leadership position.
"From my first day on campus as an undergraduate, I understood that there is truly ‘something in these hills,’" Usher said. He spoke of the strong sense of community that defines the Clemson experience.
This personal commitment, combined with his extensive professional and academic credentials, positions him to lead the MRED program into its next chapter. The appointment is seen as a strategic move to ensure future real estate developers are equipped with the knowledge to create sustainable, resilient, and economically viable projects for the 21st century.
