Craig Benson

Craig Benson is an American businessman and politician who served as the 78th Governor of New Hampshire. A co-founder of the pioneering networking company Cabletron Systems, he leveraged his success in the high-tech sector to launch a political career, becoming known for his fiscally conservative policies during a single term in the New Hampshire State House. His tenure was marked by efforts to balance the state budget without new taxes and initiatives to promote economic development, though he was defeated for re-election. Following his governorship, he has remained active in business, venture capital, and philanthropy.

Early life and education

He was born in New York City and grew up in the surrounding area, developing an early interest in electronics and entrepreneurship. He attended Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. His time at Babson College, known for its focus on entrepreneurial studies, provided a foundational education in business management. This academic background directly informed his future ventures in the rapidly expanding field of computer networking during the 1980s.

Business career

After graduation, he worked as a sales engineer for a technology firm before co-founding Cabletron Systems in 1983 with business partner Robert Levine. The company, headquartered in Rochester, New Hampshire, became a major manufacturer of Ethernet networking equipment and a key competitor to larger firms like Cisco Systems. Under his leadership as CEO, Cabletron Systems grew into one of the largest employers in New Hampshire and a significant player on the NASDAQ. The company's success made him a prominent figure in the Silicon Valley of the East and provided the capital for his subsequent political and philanthropic endeavors following its eventual sale and dissolution.

Political career

Capitalizing on his reputation as a successful businessman, he entered the 2002 New Hampshire gubernatorial election as a Republican candidate. He defeated Democratic nominee Mark Fernald in the general election, promising to run state government with business-like efficiency. As Governor of New Hampshire, he faced significant budget shortfalls and opposed the implementation of a broad-based income tax or sales tax, advocating instead for spending restraints. His administration worked with the New Hampshire General Court to close the deficit, supported STEM education initiatives, and clashed with the New Hampshire Supreme Court over the state's responsibility for public education funding. He was defeated in his bid for a second term in the 2004 New Hampshire gubernatorial election by Democrat John Lynch.

Post-gubernatorial career

After leaving the New Hampshire State House, he returned to the private sector, founding the venture capital firm Polaris Ventures and engaging in various technology investments. He has served on the boards of several companies and organizations, including Albany International and the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation. He has also been involved in educational initiatives, supporting programs at his alma mater, Babson College, and other institutions. His continued involvement in economic development efforts in New England includes advocating for innovation in sectors like renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.

Personal life

He married Denise B. Gonyou in 1979, and the couple has two children. A resident of Rye, New Hampshire, he is an avid sailor and has competed in several offshore sailing events. His philanthropic activities have included significant donations to healthcare institutions like the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, New Hampshire, and support for community programs throughout the Seacoast Region. He maintains a lower public profile than during his time in New Hampshire politics, focusing on his business interests and family.

Category:1954 births Category:Living people Category:Governors of New Hampshire Category:American technology company founders Category:Babson College alumni Category:People from Rye, New Hampshire Category:New Hampshire Republicans