Clark Atlanta University - Panther Yearbook (Atlanta, GA)

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4r. .i-.'- The record clearly outlines for Clark the high destiny it has always had. An early benefactor, Bishop Gilbert Haven, visualized Clark as the university of all the Methodist Episcopal Church pro- viding education for Negro youth. In- deed, it was to reach far beyond the boundaries of sect, or class, or race and become an institution of which this state and nation can be proud. The history and heritage of Clark means that an investment was sincerely made in the upiift of thousands of the nation's newa-made citizens. it is a task which is not yet complete, neither the uplift nor the citizenship. Among the lasting and continuing contributions of this college is the important matter of producing leaders for the church, the state, and the nation. For almost a cen- tury, Clark College has served this pur- pose well. The impact and influence of the work of its graduates have been Felt in America from shore to shore and beyond its borders in foreign lands, par ticularly in Africa. Yes, Clark College has a rich heritage. It is more than poetic fancy to say that the time is now; for Clark has developed and is currently operating several in- novative academic and social programs in such areas as journalism, freshman studies. health professions. mass com- munications, the southern center for public policy studies and general science. which indicate that she is fulfilling the promise of heI past. The general aim of the college is to provide a learning situation which will offer its students, through many types of activitiesi an opportunity to develop into well-balanced men and women who will be affable and refined in manners, keen and critical in intellect, sensitive and appreciative in nature. Christian in character. broad in interest. efficient in work, and useful in society.

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Opening CLARK COLLEGE . . . a monument Clark College has a rich heritage. The institution was founded in 1869 by the Freedmen's Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church as part of a movement to provide education for the four million freedmen immediately following the Civil War. The times were trying indeed and the fact that Clark was founded at all is something of a miracle. But the greater miracie is the spirit and manner of its founding: the high idealism and Christian faith behind its support, the genuine humanitar- ianism which shaped its character. and the true liberalism which motivated those who worked in its crude buildings. The laying of the cornerstone in 18?? of Christman Hall, the first permanent building at old Clark University, as we were then known. was a significant day in the life of the institution and of Atlan- ta, In addition to leaders of the church attending these exercises were the governor of the state and a senator. two ex-gouernors. the school commissioner, and other distinguished guests. 6 May,1983 t THE YEAR 1H REVIEW . . . an institution The records state also that the citizens of Atlanta contributed $1.000, a stupendous sum in those days, toward furnishing the building. This is a clear indication of goodwill and cooperation. This was more than simple good race relations; it was interraciai cooperation. it provided an unusual example of brotherhood and goodwill across racial and sectional lines. It was, without doubt, a balm for the deep wounds of earlier years. As such. it was and is a contribution which the nation still sore- ly needs! Clark, then, is an institution that can and does call for the cooperative work of northern and southern racial groups, I church leaders, and ieaders of state. This is the way the college started and this is primarily the way in which it has developed and continues to move. Clark was named for the first presi- dent of the Freedmenis Aid Society. Bishop D, W. Clark. it was among the first of Negro colleges to be founded.

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Opening To secure this end, the coliege endeavors to correct deficiencies, to en- courage natural gifts, and to guide students toward an increasing maturity of outlook and emotional control and to a commitment to high purposes. This process involves a growing ethical sen- sitivity both to the values conserved through the social process. as well as the undeveloped potentialities yet to be achieved for the race and human welfare in its broadest relations. While the spirit of Clark College is ever progressive. there are traditions which are held dear. CULTURE: 'Culture for Service is the motto by which we live at Clark. Everyone is expected to give proper respect to classmates and associates and to persons in authority. It is a tradiv tion at Clark to show dignity in pubiic gatherings by being attentive alert and poised, and by never participating in any activity that might distract from the dignity of the individual or cause embarrassment. SPIRITUAL LlFE: Spiritual develop- ment is considered an integral part of college life at Clark, Individuals in the college may find spiritual uplift by at- tending the worship services the yearly Religions Emphasis observance and retreats, through visits to the prayer room in Holmes Hall and through private meetings with the college minister and other associates. COMMUNITY SERVICE: Service to the community offers a stimulating educa tional experience to students who find meaning in having direct contact with human needs. Clark students volunteer to tutor both Children and adults. to en- courage voter registration and bailoting, ministerial 8 May. 1983 t THE YEAR IN REVIEW fl to improve housing and services to neighborhood residences. to support political candidates. to influence changes in law, to provide enrichment experiences to Chiidren. to teach black history. and to perform other tasks to uplift humanity SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT: The college has always been concerned that sociat development should not lag. as increas- ing emphasis is placed on inteliectual growth. Activities to enhance the social life include coilegesponsored dances. organization affairs, receptions, and many other social activities. Clark traditions include: The Induc- tion Service for freshmen which con- cludes Freshmen Orientation Week; Homecoming Activities highlighted by the coronation of Miss Clark the Fri- day night before the Homecoming game; the annual 'Turkey Day Classic Clark Versus Morris Brown, which closes the football season; Founders Day, observed the last Wednesday in February. when seniors don their caps and gowns for the first time; Senior Feilowship sealed in a comA munion hour the Sundayr prior to Com- mencement: and Crogman Day e honoring the late president Crogmah. Clark College takes pride in its modern buildings and beautiful land- scaping. The campus is served by caretakers and security guards who help individuals at Clark College to carry out their share of responsibility for keeping the community a clean, safe, and attractive place in which to live Our buildings are designed, equipped, and maintained in accordance with legal, practical and modern codes.