Interview with Thomas D. Clark, January 16, 1987

Interview Summary

In this interview, Dr. Thomas D. Clark discusses his involvement with the Committee of Fifteen, a centennial planning committee at the University of Kentucky. Clark explains that this committee was also responsible for an analysis of the university intended to investigate the future of the university. Clark was appointed as chairman of the committee, and states that he appointed other members of the faculty to subcommittees to issue reports on the various colleges. Clark recalls that faculty members were supportive and he believes that this committee had a lasting affect on the university. During this time, Clark also served as chairman for the committee for arts and science lectureship, and wrote the basic program in the College of Arts and Sciences. Clark also served as chairman for the planning committee for the Mississippi Valley Historical Association and the Organization of American Historians. Clark describes the university's centennial celebration in 1965, and recalls that he was not impressed with President Lyndon Johnson's speech. Clark also discusses awards given to 100 distinguished alumni to symbolize the university's one hundred years, and the struggles of the Committee of Fifteen to select this group.

Clark describes the search for a new president to replace President Frank Dickey. As a member of the committee, Clark recalls meetings to discuss what the University of Kentucky needed in a new president. Clark discusses the decision to hire John W. Oswald, and his disagreements with the rest of the committee. Clark describes various controversies on campus and how politics complicate university matters. Clark also provides his opinion of President Dickey, who he feels was never able to pull the university together.

Clark touches on his role as a faculty representative to the board of trustees. He explains why it is important to have faculty members on the board of trustees. He discusses various issues that came before the board like changing the university's retirement system and the motion to dissolve the university school. Clark also talks about faculty salary issues and explains why some faculty members never got the money they deserved.

Interview Keyword

Chandler, Happy, 1898-1991 College administrators--Rating of College administrators--Selection and appointment. College environment College presidents College teachers--Social conditions Johnson, Lyndon B. (Lyndon Baines), 1908-1973 Universities and colleges--Administration. Universities and colleges--Faculty.

Interview LC Subject

Clark, Thomas Dionysius, 1903-2005 Clark, Thomas Dionysius, 1903-2005--Interviews Kentucky--Politics and government Politicians--Kentucky University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.