Clarkson University Celebrates Opening of New On-Campus Bookstore Designed by Students
Clarkson University celebrated the grand opening of its new on-campus bookstore with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday ahead of the Clarkson men’s hockey game against the University of North Dakota and just following the Investiture of Clarkson’s 19th President, Michelle B. Larson.
The newly relocated bookstore, operated by Barnes & Noble College, is now housed in the Cheel Campus Center. The new space places the store at the center of student activity and provides easy access for community members attending Clarkson hockey games and other campus events.
The move reflects Clarkson’s commitment to enhancing student life and creating a more vibrant, accessible hub for students, faculty, staff and the Golden Knight faithful.
One of the most distinctive aspects of the project was the extensive involvement of Clarkson students in its design and development. Under the guidance of Erik Backus, Professor of Practice and Howard E. Lechler ’48, MS ’53, HD ’78 Endowed Director in the Construction Engineering Management Program, a team of civil engineering students from the Spring 2025 Capstone Design course developed the plans and specifications for the renovation.
Led by Joe VanDeValk ’25, the team included Gavin Baldwin ’25, Carter Gould ’25, Allison Grant ’25, Grace Hernandez ’25, Tia Katz ’25, Sam Mancabelli ’25, and Logan Wilkinson ’25. Their plans were approved by Potsdam Code Official Greg Thompson in May, allowing construction to begin smoothly. Sanzhar Suleimen ’27, a junior civil engineering student, provided on-site construction oversight throughout the summer. Cutting the ribbon at the Grand Opening was Katz who commented that it was really exciting to see their work come to life and actually get completed over the summer.
The project was completed on time and on budget — a testament to the students’ professionalism and the strong collaboration between Clarkson University and Barnes & Noble College.
“Barnes & Noble College truly values the partnership with Clarkson,” said Bob Puma, Barnes & Noble College Regional Manager. “This was a complex undertaking, which took many meetings and difficult discussions to bring to fruition. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. I’m also quite impressed with the student involvement with the project. This was instrumental in achieving the finished design and the outstanding look and feel of the store.”
“I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the hard work and dedication of the B&N store team, and especially the Store Manager, Evan Hitchman,” Puma added. “This project was undertaken during the busiest time of the year, and Evan and his team held it all together by running three locations simultaneously and minimizing the impact on students. I am so happy to see the store back on campus and located in a very active area. I think this will offer students a much more convenient and accessible location and continue to help foster their success.”
Several local and state leaders joined the celebration, including Potsdam Mayor Alex Jacobs Wilke, Potsdam Chamber of Commerce President Allison Carney, St. Lawrence County Legislator Margaret I. Haggard, Assemblyman Scott Gray, and State Senator Dan Stec, and Alene Thomas of KeyBank.
The on-campus bookstore now stands as a symbol of collaboration, innovation, and student achievement — a space built by Golden Knights, for Golden Knights.
