Parents and families play a special role in the Clarkson experience.

Working in partnership with parents and families to keep communication lines open, we encourage you to participate in your student's education and help them make the most of every day at Clarkson.

Families receive our Parent and Family E-Newsletter providing important information and student life highlights. Make sure to add or update your email address via the link below to ensure you receive Parent and Family E-Newsletters. You can also make a difference for every student through your participation in the Clarkson Fund.

Add or update your email address

View our archive of Parent and Family E-Newsletters

Join the Parent & Family Facebook group to connect with other Clarkson families, ask questions, and share resources!

Parents and Families Give our Students Strength

Parents and Students at Hockey Game

The success of our students is Clarkson's priority. Our academic programs are ranked nationally by U.S. News & World Report, and we are one of the smallest schools in the category only with 3,000 students. That means your student will receive more personal attention in our rigorous programs.

We emphasize stretching boundaries because we want all of our students to pursue and achieve their life goals. Students can explore multiple departments fields of study or extracurricular activities. With a curiosity that crosses disciplines, our students are encouraged explore their various interests. Perhaps that's why one out of every five Clarkson graduates is a CEO, vice president, or owns a company.

As a Clarkson parent, you may want to get involved in our parents association, which promotes active parent and family involvement in the University. But the first thing we encourage you to do is come to Potsdam and take a look at the University in person. We think you will like what you see.

Office of Student Life Diversity and Inclusion AccessABILITY Services

Does your student need more support on campus?

Our professional staff members are here to help your student navigate life at Clarkson. If you are concerned about your student, please encourage them to reach out to any of these available resources. 

Student Success, Diversity and Inclusion

Staff members in this department provide a number of programs and services designed to help students reach their academic and professional goals. Programs within this department include:

Learn more about Student Success, Diversity and Inclusion services

Office of Student Life

The Office of Student Life (OSL) assists students in developing into well-rounded individuals through community service, co-curricular programming and social events. 

Learn more about volunteer opportunities

View upcoming student events and view our student clubs and organizations

Career Center

The Career Center is dedicated to helping students reach their career goals. Staff members work to offer customized services to all Clarkson students who are looking to plan for a rewarding career, find the right co-op or internship, develop professional and leadership skills, improve job search skills and connect with the best job and graduate school opportunities. 

Learn more about Career Center services

 

 

 

Student Health and Counseling Center (SHAC)

The Student Health and Counseling Center (SHAC) not only cares for our students, but empowers them to become active participants in their physical health and mental wellbeing. The Center offers health services such as a campus clinic for illness and injury, immunizations, flu vaccinations, physicals and referrals as well as counseling services for anxiety, adjustment to change, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, sexuality and more. 

Learn more about services offered by the Student Health and Counseling Center. 

Residence Life

Our Residence Life staff works to provide our students with a comfortable and positive living environment. They oversee our residential spaces and our large staff of student employees. 

Learn more about Residence Life

International Center

The International Center is the hub for all international activity on the Clarkson campus, including assisting students with studying, performing research or working abroad as well as helping international students and visitors on campus by providing immigration services and support. 

Learn more about student opportunities to study, perform research or work abroad.

Learn more about coming to Clarkson as an international student or visitor. 

Commencement Ceremonies

Clarkson offers four graduation ceremonies each year for various bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs. We encourage you to learn more about our different ceremonies and stay up to date on information as it becomes available throughout the year by visiting the Commencement website.

Join Us for Family Weekend

Family Weekend 2019 will be held on Friday and Saturday, October 18th and 19th, 2019

We're putting together the final plans for Family Weekend 2019, but this will give you an idea of what's in store. Check back for updates!

Lodging

If you are planning on attending this year’s family weekend and need lodging, we encourage you to make reservations as soon as possible. Please see this link for lodging information: www.northcountryguide.com. 

Join the Parent and Family Association

The Parent and Family Association represents all Clarkson parents and guardians, and promotes their active involvement in the University. Once enrolled parents and guardians become lifetime members of the Association. The Parent and Family Association facilitates interaction and support between the University and parents providing insight into the life of your student.

A Parents Committee, representing parents and guardians from each class year of students, leads the Association and many parents contribute their time, expertise and support to plan association programs like Career Center, Admission Mentor and the Parents Fund. The Parents Committee encourages every parent and guardian to take an active role in the life of the University by offering creative suggestions, feedback and volunteering their support.

Recent News

Clarkson University Completes Renovation of New Conference and Events Space at Old Main on Downtown Campus
Son of Clarkson University Professor Wins Gold Medal in Chess Championship
Clarkson University Unveils New Golden Knight Mascot & Athletics Logos