Compiled by Russell Bastedo
State Curator
1998

Craig R. Benson (2003-2005). Benson (1954 -) was born at New York City (NY). He completed his undergraduate degree in Finance at Babson College (1977), and his MBA degree at the University of Syracuse (1979).

Benson began his business career working with two Boston area technology companies, Teradyne Inc. and Inetlan (1979 - 1983). In 1983 Benson was a cofounder of Cabletron, and he worked his way up through the company, holding every major position including CEO and chairman (1983 - 1999). He subsequently became a member of the board of directors of Entrasys, another technology company.

Benson ran successfully for governor in 2002, campaigning as a successful businessman prepared to bring technological changes to state government. Many changes in internal operating procedures were made during Benson's single term in office. Defeated in his bid for a second term, Benson has returned to the private sector as of this writing (2006).