University Recognition Day and Phalanx

Phalanx is Clarkson University's highest honorary society. Its purpose is to recognize the achievements and promote the interests of students, faculty, staff and other Clarkson Community members in extracurricular activities, scholarship, and athletics at Clarkson.

Don’t let the accomplishments of your fellow classmates, students, professors or co-workers go unrecognized. Nominate them Today!

History of Phalanx & University Recognition Day

Prior to 1929, students who participated actively in campus affairs and also attained high scholastic standing received no special recognition at Clarkson. That year Phalanx was organized to honor such individuals. William M. Farrisee, then associate professor of civil engineering and later dean of students, assisted several members of the Class of 1929 in designating 12 charter members.

Now established as Clarkson's highest honorary society, Phalanx has stimulated campus activities and provided recognition of academic achievement, while promoting the qualities of leadership. Just as Phalanx referred to the formation of ranks in ancient Greece, the society's constitution explains "so does Phalanx mean the formation of those who rank high in the affairs of Clarkson."

The purpose of Phalanx has remained the same throughout its many years: to recognize the achievements and promote the interests of students, faculty, staff and other community members in extracurricular activities, scholarship, and athletics at Clarkson. Full consideration is given to a candidate's leadership qualities, including personality, ability to lead, and ability to follow.

It has been a recent tradition to hold an annual reception honoring members of Phalanx - Faculty, Alumni, Active and Newly Tapped - in the spring.

Nominations

Nominations for Phalanx are currently closed. The nomination period is generally in October of each year. Check back then to nominate a student or colleague.

The Commendable Leadership Award

This award is presented to juniors, seniors, graduate students, faculty, staff, and administration members who have demonstrated outstanding leadership abilities and quality participation in organizations associated with Clarkson and the Potsdam community. The award candidate should exhibit exceptional leadership qualities and the versatility to balance all aspects of college life. The new Phalanx members are selected from the group of Commendable Leadership award recipients.

The Commendable Service Award

A limited number of Commendable Service Awards are presented annually to freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, graduate students, faculty, staff, and administration members who have demonstrated quality in service to their area/organization. The award candidate should be a well-rounded individual who excels in all aspects of college life and is especially dedicated to serving his or her organization.

The Distinguished Service Award

This award is presented to the campus department or organization that has been recognized by the CUSA or University administration. This group will be selected on the basis of service above and beyond the activities for which it has been established. This service shall be of significant benefit to the Clarkson community and/or the surrounding area.