Clarkson, SLU get good 'green' grades in book

Clarkson University, Potsdam, and St. Lawrence University, Canton, both received high marks for their environmental efforts in the 2009 edition of the Princeton Review's "Best 368 Colleges."

It's the first year that the New York-based educational services company has evaluated schools' "green ratings," based on their environmental practices, policies and course offerings. On a scale of 60 to 99, Clarkson scored a 95, while SLU scored 87.

Both universities also are listed among the best Northeastern colleges. Only about 15 percent of America's 2,500 four-year colleges and two Canadian colleges were included in this year's review.

Clarkson again made some of the Princeton Review's most dubious lists: The college ranked third in the country for "This is a Library?" and 12th for "Least Beautiful Campus." The university also was voted No. 15 for "Least Happy Students" and No. 19 for "Class Discussions Rare."

"I have yet to meet a Clarkson student I don't like. I see mostly happy students in my work here — but maybe not if you caught them after a physics exam," said Kelly O. Chezum, assistant to the president for strategic advancement. "Overall, I think students from technical institutions are often more candid in their responses, and I think that fits with our academic environment and the curriculum we have."

Ms. Chezum added the university has taken students' feedback to heart when designing its master plan, which includes upgrades across campus, and will increase study space at the library.

"We are actively taking those comments into consideration by addressing the master plan of the institution. That will help make Clarkson a more welcoming environment," she said.

The surveyed Clarkson students also described their college as "demanding" and "hands-on," saying that "it's hard to achieve good grades, but rewarding when you do."

Clarkson also was included on the "25 Most Connected Campuses" list.

St. Lawrence ranked No. 20 on the "Best Athletic Facilities" list this year, while the students were described as "dedicated to academics and very involved outside the classroom."

"While it's wonderful that our students think highly of our athletic facilities, I think high school students are smart and savvy, and they know this is just one way of assessing colleges," said Lisa M. Cania, SLU's associate vice president for university relations. "We think the best source of information is a visit to the college itself."

SUNY Potsdam and SUNY Canton were not included in the rankings.