Thomas D. Clark Foundation Inc.

The Thomas D. Clark Foundation Inc. is a nonprofit organization established in 1994 to support educational initiatives, particularly through its partnership with the University Press of Kentucky (UPK). Named after the renowned historian Thomas D. Clark, the foundation aims to advance scholarship about Kentucky and its broader regional context.

Mission and Activities

The foundation's mission is to enhance educational opportunities by supporting high-quality scholarly and general-interest publications that highlight Kentucky's unique history and culture. Additionally, it focuses on ensuring that the UPK stays current with modern publishing technologies and acts as a strong advocate for the press statewide[1][2].

The Thomas D. Clark Foundation also emphasizes the importance of integrating Black history and culture into Kentucky's educational curriculum. Recognizing the historical omission of these topics in public schools, the foundation is committed to providing educational resources for teachers to address this gap. This initiative aims to foster a more inclusive understanding of Kentucky's and America's history[2].

Financial Overview

In recent years, the foundation has reported notable financial activities. For instance, it has granted significant sums for educational projects and has managed substantial net assets. Despite operating expenses exceeding total revenue in some years, resulting in a net loss, the foundation maintains significant net assets[4][5].

History and Legacy

Thomas D. Clark, a distinguished historian, dedicated his life to promoting scholarship about Kentucky and its region. He played a pivotal role in founding the University Press of Kentucky, and the establishment of the Thomas D. Clark Foundation in 1994 continues his legacy by supporting educational and publishing endeavors[1][2].

Governance and Structure

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Thomas D. Clark Foundation is managed by a board of dedicated volunteers. This governance structure reflects the foundation's commitment to carrying forward Clark's vision through community involvement and volunteer leadership[1][2].

The foundation operates as a public charity, contributing significant funds to grant programs that align with its educational mission[5].

References