Interview with Thomas D. Clark, October 9, 1990

Interview Summary

In this interview, Dr. Thomas Clark recounts his relations with Phi Alpha Theta, an American honor society. The first time Clark became associated with this organization was in 1937 when Phi Alpha Theta held their national meeting on the University of Kentucky campus. Clark received an invitation and at this meeting was named an honorary member. He was also asked to help revive the chapter, which he did once students returned to campus. Clark sees Phi Alpha Theta as a neutral ground in which faculty and students can meet. He also saw it as a channel for publication for students' papers. Clark later became president of Phi Alpha Theta in 1957 and describes his goals for the organization. He credits Don Hoffman for practically running Phi Alpha Theta as secretary and obtaining prestige for the organization. He also gives credit to Fletcher Green, Francis Bowman, and Gilbert [Fight] for their contributions to Phi Alpha Theta.

Interview Keyword

Phi Alpha Theta Professors Organization presidents Annual meetings Conventions

Interview LC Subject

Clark, Thomas Dionysius, 1903-2005 Clark, Thomas Dionysius, 1903-2005--Interviews University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History College environment College teachers. Educators Greek letter societies. Universities and colleges. Universities and colleges--Faculty.

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.