Clarkson University

Clarkson University was founded in 1896 as the Thomas S. Clarkson Memorial School of Technology following the death of Thomas Streatfeild Clarkson, a local businessman and civic leader. His three sisters, Lavinia, Elizabeth, and Frederica, donated land and funds to establish a school in his memory. The school opened with 17 students and initially focused on civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. In 1913, the institution was renamed Clarkson College of Technology and began offering four-year degrees. The college grew steadily throughout the 20th century, adding graduate programs and new facilities. It became Clarkson University in 1984 to reflect its expanded academic offerings. In 1999, Clarkson merged with Union Graduate College, establishing a presence in Schenectady. The university has produced notable alumni, including astronaut Owen K. Garriott and several CEOs of Fortune 500 companies. Clarkson celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2021 and continues to focus on technology and innovation.