Clarkson University Joins The Ogdensburg Promise as Founding Campus Partner in New College Access Initiative

Bridging Futures, Building Deams: The Ogdensburg Promise Launches Groundbreaking Last-Dollar Scholarship & Student Support Program

Clarkson University is proud to join The Ogdensburg Promise (TOP) as a founding campus partner, helping create new pathways to higher education for eligible graduates of Ogdensburg Free Academy. Announced today during a special ceremony at OFA, the initiative combines last-dollar financial support with individualized student coaching to help participants enroll in and complete college or workforce training programs.

The Ogdensburg Promise (TOP) is a place-based scholarship and workforce initiative for eligible graduates of Ogdensburg Free Academy who meet City of Ogdensburg residency and other program requirements. Beginning with eligible members of the OFA Class of 2027, TOP will provide last-dollar support for eligible education costs, based on the student's approved pathway, and connect students with two Promise Pathway Coaches who help them plan, apply, enroll and progress toward completion.

Learn more: The Ogdensburg Promise

TOP is partnering with Clarkson and the other three members of the Associated Colleges of the St. Lawrence Valley as the founding campus partners for the program, to expand opportunities for eligible OFA graduates pursuing higher education and trades in St. Lawrence County. 

"Consistent with our founding purpose, Clarkson University is grounded in supporting young people to pursue their dreams and make an impact from the launchpad a college education provides. The Ogdensburg Promise brings a community together around that idea, pairing meaningful financial support with the guidance students need to turn their ambitions into action. Clarkson is proud to be a founding partner in an initiative that invests in North Country talent, creates new pathways to education and careers, and strengthens the region we all call home,” said Clarkson University President Michelle B. Larson.

As the first initiative of its kind in the North Country, The Ogdensburg Promise has already secured nearly $4 million toward an initial fundraising goal of $6 million through the support of individuals, families, alumni, businesses, foundations and community partners.
One Promise. Three Pathways. Two Coaches.

“TOP was created around one conviction: The future of Ogdensburg depends upon the future of its people. By reducing financial barriers and connecting students with guidance, TOP is designed to expand opportunity, strengthen the regional workforce, give families another reason to remain in or choose Ogdensburg, and restore confidence in what the community can become,” said ?.

Eligible students can pursue three pathways: public college, a TOP private university partner, or an approved skilled-trade, technical or vocational certification. 

TOP's two Promise Pathway Coaches will help students and families understand eligibility, explore careers and education options, complete applications, navigate financial aid, meet deadlines and connect with appropriate resources. They will also coordinate with OFA, partner colleges, approved training providers and workforce organizations.

Moving ahead, Clarkson will work closely with The Ogdensburg Promise, OFA students and their families to help participants identify educational pathways, navigate the admissions and financial aid process, and pursue their academic and career goals.

For more information about The Ogdensburg Promise, visit theogdensburgpromise.com.