Three-Semester Schedule.
With the largest class ever to graduate from Clarkson receiving its
degrees in October, Clarkson ended its three-semester per-year schedule begun during the
wartime emergency. One hundred and forty-eight students receiving their degrees in Clarkson's
55th Commencement exercises on October 10 brought to a close the inauguration ceremonies
for President Jess Davis.
"Future in the Air."
In conjunction with the presidents of all institutions of higher learning in
the area, General Courtney Hodges, commanding general of the First Army, initiated a program
in which students were made aware of the advantages offered by the peacetime Army and Air
Force. More than 90 percent of the colleges and universities in the First Army area, comprising
New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and the New England States agreed to appoint a member of
the faculty to handle all liaison between the College and representatives of the Recruiting
Service.
This faculty member was to make him- or herself available for consultation with any
member of the student body who for any reason was forced to discontinue his studies, or whose
plans for the future were uncertain. The faculty were to advise the student of the advantages
available through enlistment in either the Army or the Air Force, and then put them in touch
with local recruiting officers.
Because many students were unable to complete their studies due to the pressures of
family responsibilities, finances, or many other causes, the United States Armed Forces
Institute, through college-level courses, afforded such men the opportunity to complete their
education free of charge while earning a living. Veterans among the undergraduates could enlist
in the division of their choice among the eight divisions stationed in the Zone of Interior, or
Continental United States, and under this "ZI Plan" would be assured of remaining with that
unit for a minimum of three years. Full consideration would be given for previous service
experience in determining the rank and rate of pay of any veterans.
About this program, Dean Farrisee stated:
An Army or Air Force career offers a secure, well-paying future for any undergraduate facing the future
with uncertainty.
Health Plan.
Beginning in September, a new student health and medical plan was put into
operation for students in both Potsdam and Malone. In Potsdam, an agreement was drawn up
between the College and the hospital and doctors to cover the examination and treatment of
students' illnesses and accidents.
A medical clinic was established in the Ross House with an office on the second floor
where a doctor was in attendance every morning except Sunday. Students were requested to
appear between 9:00 and 9:15 a.m. This was a free service with the following benefits:
1. Medical treatment up to $250 per student, per year
2. Hospitalization, 10 days at $6.50 per day
3. Laboratory, X-ray, $10, out-patient
4. Laboratory, X-ray, anesthesia, $35, in-patient
5. Surgery, up to $150
6. Medical care, $50
7. Special medicine, etc., $10
8. Ambulance, $7.50
