Soul of 78: Dr. Chandra Clark

Associate Professor, The University of Alabama

Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill

In the world of broadcast journalism, seasoned professional Dr. Chandra Clark stands out as a devoted educator, advocate, and storyteller.

The Oakman native grew up the youngest of five children, with a 13-year age gap between her and her oldest sibling. As a result, she spent much time around adults.

"My mom and I would go on what she called pop visits; just popping in to check on people," Chandra says. "Most of these were older people, and I loved hearing their stories."

Chandra notes that those stories, and the ones she would hear daily as she watched network news, sparked her initial interest in a career in media. "Everyone has a story, and those stories are valuable culturally and historically. I was always fascinated with how those stories could unfold on the opposite side of the world and be so important that they would be told in my living room in Oakman, Alabama. That fascination never wavered."

When Chandra was 16, her mom took her to an "explorers meeting" at Jasper-based VIP TV to further explore her options for a career in media. During the visit, it became clear to Chandra that broadcast journalism would be her path.

While she was a student at Walker College, Chandra actively sought opportunities to hone her broadcasting skills and was an instrumental part of burgeoning legendary basketball coach Glen Clem's post-game shows. While studying at The University of Alabama, she was part of the three-person team that helped establish the newsroom operation at what was then WDBB-TV. Years later, the station moved to UA's campus and now operates as the renowned WVUA 23. The connections she formed in these roles led to her producing the first newscast for Birmingham-based WBMA, better known as ABC 33/40, in September 1996.

"In every role, I have had amazing bosses, mentors, and support systems, which is integral to what I have accomplished," says Chandra. When I was working on my master's degree and working for University Relations at The University of Alabama, I was presented the opportunity to work as an adjunct professor. My mentor, Pamela Doyle Tran, told me, 'You're what we need in the future because of your love for students and storytelling."

Thus began Chandra's dive into academia, where she seamlessly blends her roles as a professor and a storyteller. Her teaching philosophy revolves around "learning in action," exemplified by her going into the field with her students and providing them with real-world experiences.

In addition to her impactful teaching, Chandra's creative scholarship focuses on journalists' vital role in society. Her award-winning mini documentaries highlight the critical role of broadcast media as "first informers" during natural disasters. Her numerous awards and recognitions, including being named one of Crain's Newspro Magazine's Top 10 Journalism Educators, attest to her outstanding contributions to the field.

As a professor, mentor, and advocate, Dr. Chandra Clark exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling and the profound impact one person can have on shaping the future of an industry. 78