Clark Scholars Program
A. James Clark’s career is a true American success story—rising from civil engineer to the leader of one of the nation’s largest privately held companies. His vision shaped iconic landmarks such as Nationals Park, Atlanta’s Hartsfield Airport, and the U.S. Institute for Peace. Guided by his belief that “hard work matters,” he combined engineering and entrepreneurship with a deep commitment to philanthropy. Through the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation, his legacy continues to support education, health care, and community organizations, reflecting his lifelong values of integrity and service.
From 1987 to 2025, the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation carried forward Mr. Clark’s belief in hard work and giving back by expanding access to education, supporting veterans, and strengthening communities. In its final decade, the Foundation strategically invested in engineering education and community initiatives in Washington, D.C. One of its most enduring legacies is the A. James Clark Scholars Program, launched in 2016 to support promising engineers and leaders nationwide. Now sustained at the University of Maryland through the Clark Scholars Program Network, the initiative continues to empower students and alumni across 11 partner universities.
In 2018, the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation made a transformative gift to the University of Pennsylvania to establish a named scholarship for aspiring engineers. That fall, the inaugural cohort of 10 Clark Scholars joined the Class of 2022.
Since then, 10 students have been admitted each year, building a vibrant community of Penn Clark Scholars and alumni who embody the values and mission of A. James Clark. Together, they represent a growing network of leaders prepared to shape the future of engineering and society. Since that first graduating Class of 2022, the impact of Clark Scholars Program at the University of Pennsylvania has been transformative.
