After navigating Bentley University’s financial course through a band of economic conditions, Paul Clemente retired on July 1, 2012, after almost 11 years of service during which he strengthened the university’s financial position and maintained a continuous record of operating surplus. 

“Paul’s leadership enabled the institution to expand our campus facilities, introduce new academic programs, and significantly grow our endowment, despite two major equity market downturns,” Bentley President Gloria Cordes Larson said. In recognition of his accomplishments, Larson and the Board of Trustees named Clemente Vice President Emeritus.

Clemente joined Bentley in 2001. During his tenure he also led the Facilities Management department and helped Bentley achieve independent recognition for exhibiting industry best practices in technology, service, and operations. He oversaw the construction of five residence halls, adding 880 beds, 500,000 square feet of space, 900 parking spaces, a world class library, and added 20 acres to the campus.  

His accomplishments also include establishing a detailed Enterprise Risk Management process and improving financial and operating performance by outsourcing Internal Audit, the Mail Room and the Print Shop. As a board member of the Boston Consortium, Clemente participated in the growth of the consortium into a true co-sourcing center offering risk management and internal auditing to member institutions.  He also participated in the Consortium’s establishment of an aggressive health care cost containment program of which Bentley is a founding member. 

Before joining Bentley, Clemente served six years as CFO of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and also served at Boston University for 15 years where he was associate vice president for financial affairs, comptroller and associate comptroller. While at Boston University he was chairman, vice chairman and member of the Management Team of the Boston University/Chelsea Partnership that managed the Chelsea public school system.