Dear Students,
We live and learn in a classic college town that welcomes more than 10,000 college students each year from the four colleges in our area. As part of being a member of a caring and inclusive community, it is important that we represent the Clarkson Values in our interactions with each other and with those who call Potsdam home all year round.
It has been brought to our attention that on Saturday, September 3, 2022, there was a student coordinated event in the Village of Potsdam, which included heavy use of the Fall Island Park and public access points as well as private properties that go along the Raquette River. This event, which was not affiliated with the University, encouraged high risk activities and resulted in significant trash that the persons responsible for it then neglected to clean up.
As Clarkson students who are adult members of the Potsdam community, it is our expectation that you will conduct yourself in a manner that shows respect for one another and the environment we share with our larger community. The Clarkson Value of Integrity calls upon us to act with honesty and accountability in our actions as the foundation of our relationships with others.
The unacceptable behavior from some students during this event received the attention of multiple local agencies, including law enforcement and public works employees dedicated to keeping the Village of Potsdam as a welcoming home to all. The actions of some reflected poorly on Clarkson students. Students who are found responsible for any associated violations of the Code of Student Conduct will be held accountable for their actions in the local community.
Responsible members of the community clean up after themselves, respect private property, and hold each other accountable. If you see a peer acting in a manner that will negatively impact someone or something, it is everyone’s responsibility to intervene and live Clarkson Values by leading by example.
If you participated in leaving trash in the Potsdam community during this event, we encourage you to begin restoring your relationship with the community through local community service opportunities. Let us all be proud and responsible community members moving forward.
Sincerely,
Brian Grant, Vice President for Student Affairs
Kelsey Pearson, Interim Dean of Students
Troy Lassial, Assistant Dean of Students
