Clark Atlanta University: Traditions, Motto, and Enduring Legacy

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is a private, Methodist, historically black research university in Atlanta, Georgia. Formed in 1988 through the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College, CAU carries forward the legacies of two institutions dedicated to providing educational opportunities and fostering a "Culture for Service".

Historical Roots and Formation

Clark Atlanta University's origins lie in two distinct institutions: Atlanta University and Clark College.

Atlanta University: Pioneering Graduate Education

Atlanta University, founded on September 19, 1865, was the nation's oldest graduate institution serving a predominantly African-American student body. It began in a boxcar purchased by the American Missionary Association (AMA) for $310 (~$6,520 in 2025) and sent to Friendship Baptist Church. Founded by James Tate and Grandison Daniels, two former slaves, the university initially aimed to educate freedmen and train teachers. Edmund Asa Ware of the American Missionary Association was appointed the first president in 1867.

In its early years, Atlanta University supplied black teachers and librarians to the public schools of the South. By 1869, it offered its first instruction at the postsecondary level. A 1912 catalog shows that Atlanta University had four divisions: the college and the normal school, and each had a preparatory division. Enrollment that year was 403: 40 college students, 62 normal students, 115 high school students in the college prep program and 183 high school students in the normal program. At that time, half of the Atlanta University alumni were employed in teaching.

In 1929-30, Atlanta University shifted its focus to graduate education exclusively, concentrating on liberal arts, social sciences, and natural sciences. Professional programs in social work, library science, and business administration were gradually added. That same year, Atlanta University affiliated with Morehouse College and Spelman College, creating the Atlanta University Center.

Clark College: A Liberal Arts Foundation

Clark College was founded in 1869 by the Freedman's Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, later known as the United Methodist Church. Named after Bishop Davis Wasgatt Clark, the first President of the Freedman's Aid Society, Clark College was the nation's first four-year liberal arts college to serve a primarily African-American student population. The first Clark College class was held in a sparsely furnished room in Clark Chapel, a Methodist Episcopal church in Atlanta's Summerhill section.

In 1871, the school relocated to a new site on the newly purchased Whitehall and McDaniel Street property. Bishop Gilbert Haven, an early benefactor, envisioned Clark as the "university" of all the Methodist schools founded for the education of freedmen. After several relocations, the school acquired 450 acres in South Atlanta in 1880, conferring its first degree that same year. In 1883, Clark established a theology department named for Elijah H. Gammon. In 1888, the Gammon School of Theology became an independent theological seminary, now part of the Interdenominational Theological Center.

Consolidation: Charting a Bold New Future

In 1988, Atlanta University and Clark College consolidated to form Clark Atlanta University. This merger combined the strengths and traditions of both institutions, creating a comprehensive urban research university. The consolidation aimed to enhance academic programs, expand resources, and provide greater opportunities for students. Dr. Thomas W. Cole, Jr., who served as the President of both Atlanta University and Clark College prior to consolidation, became the first President of Clark Atlanta University.

"I'll Find a Way or Make One": The Enduring Motto

"I'll Find a Way or Make One" is more than a motto at Clark Atlanta University; it is a declaration of determination, resilience, and purpose. This phrase reflects the belief that success begins with confidence, preparation, and commitment. CAU empowers students to think boldly, lead intentionally, and take ownership of their future.

The motto embodies the spirit of innovation, problem-solving, and social consciousness that the university seeks to instill in its students. It speaks to the legacy of overcoming challenges and creating new opportunities, a legacy deeply rooted in the history of both Atlanta University and Clark College.

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Traditions and Campus Life

Clark Atlanta University offers a vibrant campus life with a range of traditions and activities. As the real-life backdrop for a modern version of the show that shaped a generation’s understanding and imagination of HBCU culture, CAU fosters a strong sense of community and pride among its students.

The Atlanta University Center

CAU's location within the Atlanta University Center (AUC) provides students with access to a consortium of historically black colleges and universities, including Morehouse College, Spelman College, Morris Brown College, and the Interdenominational Theological Center. This collaboration enriches the academic and social experiences of students, fostering a unique sense of community and shared history.

Athletics

Known as the Panthers, Clark Atlanta University competes in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Division II. Athletics play a significant role in campus life, fostering school spirit and providing opportunities for student-athletes to excel.

Greek Life

All nine of the National Pan-Hellenic Council organizations have chapters established at Clark Atlanta University. Greek life contributes to the social fabric of the university, providing opportunities for leadership development, community service, and lifelong connections.

Academic Excellence and Programs

Clark Atlanta University is known for its programs in Business Administration and Management, Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, Psychology, Biology/Biological Sciences, Criminal Justice/Safety Studies, and Fashion/Apparel Design. The Whitney M. Young Jr. School of Social Work is one of the nation’s top programs and has a rich legacy behind it. The university offers a wide array of academic programs, including Bachelor's, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees, as well as Postbaccalaureate and Post-masters certificates.

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Research and Innovation

CAU is committed to advancing knowledge for progress and for people. From Wall Street-ready finance labs to pioneering research in AI, cybersecurity, and cancer treatment, CAU fuels discovery with purpose.

Notable Alumni

Clark Atlanta University has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:

Ralph Abernathy: Civil rights activist
Pearl Cleage: Author
James Weldon Johnson: Writer
Emmanuel Lewis: Actor
Jacque Reid: Journalist

Campus Landmarks

Gaines Hall (North Hall)

Built in 1869 by architect William H. Parkins, North Hall, now Gaines Hall, was the first female dormitory on the campus of a co-ed school in the US. North Hall was Atlanta University's first purpose-built building.

Fountain Hall

Built in 1882 on the crest of Diamond Hill on the Morris Brown College campus, Fountain Hall is among the earlier structures on the original site of Atlanta University. Historically, the hall is significant for its role in providing higher education to Blacks in the US. Fountain Hall was made a National Historic Landmark in 1975 for its role in providing higher education to African Americans.

Commitment to Service and Community Engagement

Guided by CAU's unique "Culture for Service," faculty and students innovate together, advancing knowledge not just for progress but for people. The university's commitment to service is reflected in its engagement with the local community and its focus on addressing social issues.

A Legacy of Transformation

Clark Atlanta University’s 2018-2023 Strategic Plan guides the University. The new plan is a blueprint for strengthening CAU’s long-term health and sustainability and will build upon areas where CAU’s comparative advantage can have far-reaching impacts.

For more than 160 years, Clark Atlanta University has turned vision into action and action into impact. As a leading HBCU, CAU continues to uphold its mission of providing access to higher education, fostering academic excellence, and preparing students to make a meaningful difference in the world.

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