Dr. Matthew “Matt” Clark
Professor of Mathematics and Statistics (1992-2024)
Dr. Matthew “Matt” Clark began teaching in 1992 as the only full-time, tenure track Professor of Mathematics and Statistics when the campus was still an extension of Yuba College. A beloved instructor, it seemed that anywhere he traveled, he would run into his former students, who remember his passion for teaching and his trademark style of Converse sneakers, shorts, and T-shirts with math puns.
Dr. Clark served on the WCC Academic Senate every year since the college became accredited in 2008, including three terms as President (2013-2018, 2022-2024). His mentorship of newer faculty and administrators is legendary. He found many ways to support students and campus life, from personally funding student events to buying dozens of pies every March for Pi Day. Dr. Clark was a strong supporter of the WCC soccer teams and cheered them on in their first season. One of Dr. Clark’s final initiatives before his passing was to envision a Math Center on campus to provide tutoring and support and remind people that, yes, math can be fun! Dr. Clark’s family donated his iconic T-shirts to make a memorial quilt that now hangs in the Matt Clark Math Center, (MC)2.
Dr. Clark was also passionate about native plants. The WCC Ag Department has created a native garden in Dr. Clark’s honor, using cuttings from some of his own favorite plants. You’ll find the garden on the east side of the 800 building, outside of one of Dr. Clark’s favorite classrooms to teach in.
Dr. Clark’s legacy at WCC can be seen in the faculty and staff he inspired to go above and beyond in their service to the college, in his many former students who remember his passion for teaching and dedication to student success at WCC, and in current and future students who will be supported through the Matt Clark Memorial Scholarship.