Clarkson University Awards Honorary Degree to Kenneth S. Solinsky ‘71
Clarkson University proudly announces it has awarded Kenneth S. Solinsky ‘71 with an honorary doctor of science degree at its spring 2025 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10.
Clarkson recognizes Solinsky with an honorary degree for his technical and business achievements in the development and manufacture of cutting-edge technology; for his life-long commitment and contributions to national defense; and for his passion, vision, and dedication to advancing U.S. manufacturing and engineering education through his philanthropy at Clarkson University.
“Ken Solinsky’s lifelong commitment to advancing technology as both an engineer and entrepreneur embodies the spirit and the mission of Clarkson University. His accomplishments represent an example to Clarkson students of what they are capable of achieving,” said President Michelle B. Larson. “His desire to support students’ pursuit of their dreams through his partnership with the university is inspiring and will make a difference for generations to come. We are proud to award Ken with this honorary degree in recognition of how he has applied his Clarkson education toward excellence.”
Solinsky is a visionary engineer, innovator, and no-nonsense businessman whose distinguished career as a civil servant and serial entrepreneur has led to the widespread development, manufacture, and deployment of night vision and electro-optical devices for the U.S. military and homeland security first responders.
After graduating with a mechanical engineering degree from Clakson in 1971, Solinsky began his career with the U.S. Army's Engineering Training Center and later joined the U.S. Army Night Vision Laboratory. His work led to the production and fielding of the Army’s first Night Vision Goggles, the first Thermal Tank Sight, and the introduction and assessment of night vision systems in Europe. Solinsky received a Secretary of the Army Award for Outstanding Achievement in Material Acquisition, and two Commander’s Awards for Civilian Service.
Solinsky and his wife, Grace, have founded and acquired several companies specializing in the development and production of Night Vision and Electro-Optical Devices for the individual warfighter. Their products have been used by each branch of the U.S. Armed forces, federal law enforcement agencies, and allied nations.
Solinsky holds more than 20 patents related to night vision and electro-optical products. He has won numerous public sector and government awards, including induction into the Association of United States Night Vision Manufacturers Hall of Fame.
In 2021, the Solinskys made a transformative commitment to Clarkson University through the Solinsky Engineering Leadership Challenge—one of the most significant commitments in the history of Clarkson. Their vision and generosity will advance engineering and manufacturing education at Clarkson, ensuring that our graduates are prepared to become the engineering, technology, and business leaders that our country needs to grow our economy and maintain national security.
Solinsky was awarded Clarkson's most prestigious alumni award, the Golden Knight Award, in 2021.
In his address to students at Clarkson University’s commencement ceremony, Solinsky congratulated the graduates on earning degrees in which they developed an excellent set of tools. Those tools, coupled with certain distinct values, would put the students on a path to success.
“Seek a life of purpose. Establish objectives. Delay gratification so you can maximize a lifetime of gratification,” Solinsky said. “Build financial resources. Don’t let obstacles stand in your way. See things as they are and look to make them better. See things that aren’t and create them. Be proactive. Do a good job because you want to, not just because you think your manager is watching. Seek a life of purpose, be passionate, and dream.”
