Clark Atlanta University’s history is rooted in the story of two prestigious institutions—each known for academic excellence, leadership, and service—coming together to form something even stronger. From the beginning, Clark College and Atlanta University were built to do more than educate. Separately forging new pathways for Black leadership in the 19th and 20th centuries, and together in 1988 as Clark Atlanta University, our impact has increased in scale and ambition.
Today, we continue the academic tradition that has produced thinkers, teachers, creators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. We are shaping lives, cultivating innovators, and expanding what’s possible for students and communities. When our strengths are combined, CAU emerges as a university with a proud heritage and a clear purpose—to prepare graduates who lead with knowledge, integrity, and impact.
