Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is a historic institution located in Atlanta, Georgia that has been a cornerstone of higher education for over 150 years. Founded in 1988 through the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College, CAU has a rich history of providing quality education to African American students and preparing them for leadership in their communities and beyond.
The roots of Clark Atlanta University can be traced back to the founding of Atlanta University in 1865. Atlanta University was established by the American Missionary Association to provide an education for newly freed slaves and to train teachers and leaders in the African American community. Over the years, Atlanta University became known for its strong emphasis on social justice, civil rights, and academic excellence.
In 1869, Clark College was founded as a liberal arts college for African American students. Clark College was known for its commitment to the liberal arts and sciences, as well as its dedication to nurturing the intellectual and cultural development of its students.
In 1988, Atlanta University and Clark College merged to form Clark Atlanta University. This merger brought together two prestigious institutions with a shared mission of providing opportunities for African American students to excel academically, socially, and professionally.
Today, Clark Atlanta University continues to uphold its legacy of excellence in education and leadership development. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in fields such as business, education, social work, arts and sciences, and more. With a diverse student body and a faculty of dedicated scholars and researchers, CAU provides a supportive and stimulating learning environment for all its students.
In addition to its academic programs, Clark Atlanta University is also known for its commitment to community service and social justice. The university’s Center for Civic Engagement and Social Justice works to empower students to become active citizens and leaders in their communities. Through service-learning projects, internships, and leadership development programs, students at CAU gain hands-on experience and make a positive impact on the world around them.
As Clark Atlanta University looks to the future, it continues to build on its legacy of excellence and innovation. The university is constantly expanding its academic offerings and research initiatives, and is committed to preparing its students to be leaders in a rapidly changing world. With its strong foundation in history and its forward-thinking approach to education, Clark Atlanta University is truly a historic institution forging the future.