Clarkson University Appoints Dr. Michelle B. Larson as Its First Female President
On February 5, 2025, Clarkson University officially announced a pivotal moment in its history: the appointment of Dr. Michelle B. Larson as its 19th President. This significant declaration marks a milestone as Dr. Larson becomes the first female leader of the university in its 128-year history. With an impressive background in physics and extensive leadership experience in both academia and non-profit organizations, she is set to steer Clarkson University into a transformative future.
Dr. Larson previously served as the President and CEO of The Adler Planetarium in Chicago, a position she held since 2013. Her tenure there exhibited her dedication to science and education, aligning perfectly with Clarkson's commitment to STEM disciplines. "Naming Dr. Larson as Clarkson's next leader is a significant milestone for the institution," stated Nancy Reyda, Chair of the Clarkson Board of Trustees. "Michelle has the personal character and a unique combination of professional experiences that will empower her to lead Clarkson effectively."
The search for Clarkson University's next president was an inclusive process, featuring contributions from diverse groups within the university community, including students, faculty, alumni, and trustees. After an extensive review of over 50 applicants, Dr. Larson's achievements in academia and her flair for strategic business leadership distinguished her as the unanimous choice of the Search Committee.
Dr. Larson holds a bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree in physics from Montana State University. Her career encompasses notable academic leadership roles, including Vice Provost at Utah State University. Throughout her journey, she has notably collaborated with NASA to forge partnerships aimed at enhancing public engagement with science.
Reflecting on her new role, Dr. Larson expressed excitement about the opportunity to champion and celebrate the remarkable success stories of Clarkson's students and faculty, stating, "My vision aims at ushering in a new era where we celebrate and amplify Clarkson's achievements."
Having a deep appreciation for colder climates, which she attributes to her upbringing in Alaska, Larson and her family are expected to transition smoothly to Clarkson's Potsdam campus situated in the picturesque Adirondacks. During her visit to the campus, she resonated deeply with Clarkson's approach to experiential learning in STEM fields. "The environment at Clarkson is incredibly supportive. The ability for students to dream, innovate, fail, and ultimately succeed is genuinely remarkable," she stated.
Under her guidance, Clarkson aims to harness the grit and determination of its student body, a spirit encapsulated in the university's longstanding motto, "a workman that needeth not to be ashamed." Despite being ranked 113th in U.S. News & World Report's engineering schools, the university maintains a humble presence that Dr. Larson plans to amplify.
As she prepares to take on her new role on April 1, 2025, Dr. Larson is keen on integrating herself into the Clarkson community and working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students. "I deeply honor this opportunity and am committed to shaping a bold future for Clarkson University," she declared. Previously, her husband, Dr. Shane Larson, an accomplished astrophysicist, will join the faculty at the Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Looking ahead, Dr. Larson's administration promises an era filled with innovation and heightened appreciation for the university's community, encouraging curiosity and collaboration to tackle global challenges. As Clarkson University continues to be a beacon of technological education and research, Dr. Larson’s leadership is anticipated to illuminate a path forward, affirming the institution's vital role in shaping the future of STEM education.
Dr. Larson previously served as the President and CEO of The Adler Planetarium in Chicago, a position she held since 2013. Her tenure there exhibited her dedication to science and education, aligning perfectly with Clarkson's commitment to STEM disciplines. "Naming Dr. Larson as Clarkson's next leader is a significant milestone for the institution," stated Nancy Reyda, Chair of the Clarkson Board of Trustees. "Michelle has the personal character and a unique combination of professional experiences that will empower her to lead Clarkson effectively."
The search for Clarkson University's next president was an inclusive process, featuring contributions from diverse groups within the university community, including students, faculty, alumni, and trustees. After an extensive review of over 50 applicants, Dr. Larson's achievements in academia and her flair for strategic business leadership distinguished her as the unanimous choice of the Search Committee.
Dr. Larson holds a bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree in physics from Montana State University. Her career encompasses notable academic leadership roles, including Vice Provost at Utah State University. Throughout her journey, she has notably collaborated with NASA to forge partnerships aimed at enhancing public engagement with science.
Reflecting on her new role, Dr. Larson expressed excitement about the opportunity to champion and celebrate the remarkable success stories of Clarkson's students and faculty, stating, "My vision aims at ushering in a new era where we celebrate and amplify Clarkson's achievements."
Having a deep appreciation for colder climates, which she attributes to her upbringing in Alaska, Larson and her family are expected to transition smoothly to Clarkson's Potsdam campus situated in the picturesque Adirondacks. During her visit to the campus, she resonated deeply with Clarkson's approach to experiential learning in STEM fields. "The environment at Clarkson is incredibly supportive. The ability for students to dream, innovate, fail, and ultimately succeed is genuinely remarkable," she stated.
Under her guidance, Clarkson aims to harness the grit and determination of its student body, a spirit encapsulated in the university's longstanding motto, "a workman that needeth not to be ashamed." Despite being ranked 113th in U.S. News & World Report's engineering schools, the university maintains a humble presence that Dr. Larson plans to amplify.
As she prepares to take on her new role on April 1, 2025, Dr. Larson is keen on integrating herself into the Clarkson community and working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students. "I deeply honor this opportunity and am committed to shaping a bold future for Clarkson University," she declared. Previously, her husband, Dr. Shane Larson, an accomplished astrophysicist, will join the faculty at the Coulter School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.
Looking ahead, Dr. Larson's administration promises an era filled with innovation and heightened appreciation for the university's community, encouraging curiosity and collaboration to tackle global challenges. As Clarkson University continues to be a beacon of technological education and research, Dr. Larson’s leadership is anticipated to illuminate a path forward, affirming the institution's vital role in shaping the future of STEM education.
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