Clarkson Phalanx Honor Society Recognizes Daniel Kent with Commendable Service Award
The Phalanx honorary society at Clarkson University has recognized Daniel Kent, owner and operator of Kent Family Growers, as a 2026 recipient of the Phalanx Commendable Service Award.
The award was presented April 18 during Clarkson’s annual University Recognition Day ceremony. It honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to service and community impact within the university and the surrounding region.
Kent was nominated by members of the Clarkson community for his contributions to community well-being, collaboration with faculty and students, and commitment to providing food access across the North Country.
“Many Clarkson employees participate in his Community Supported Agriculture program; you will not find another community member who has a higher impact on our well-being,” one nominator said. “His weekly newsletter brings insight, warmth and connection, and his ability to bring people together across backgrounds is unmatched.”
Through Kent Family Growers, Kent has built a community resource focused on sustainability, resilience and access to fresh, local food. His work addresses ongoing challenges in modern agriculture while maintaining consistent service to the region.
“Dan’s primary purpose is feeding our community,” another nominator said. “He is constantly adapting to meet our needs, and it is difficult to imagine our community without him.”
Kent has also contributed to Clarkson’s academic mission through partnerships with faculty and staff. His involvement has supported research, teaching and experiential learning opportunities. In one collaboration, his engagement helped reshape a faculty member’s approach to agricultural modeling, contributing to student work recognized at Clarkson’s Spring 2023 Research and Project Showcase.
He has also worked directly with students in courses such as Introduction to Mathematical Modeling, providing feedback on projects and supporting applied problem-solving.
Beyond campus, Kent has supported regional initiatives, including serving as a judge for an annual grant-funded Food Truck Challenge for high school students.
“Dan is a unique asset in our community,” a faculty collaborator said. “He bridges innovation and livelihood in a way that enriches both Clarkson and the broader region.”
Kent has also engaged with university leadership to strengthen connections between local agriculture and the campus community.
Phalanx, Clarkson’s highest recognition for leadership and service, selects award recipients through peer nominations, highlighting individuals’ lasting impact.
