Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1468724
Era of David Fithian's bold strategy promises transformation for Clark University and its neighbors BY KATHERINE HAMILTON WBJ Staff Writer P resident David Fithian's strategy for Clark University is crystal- clear: e Worcester school is moving into an era of bigger, broader, and bolder thinking. At a time when other colleges were buckling down, Fithian was stepping for- ward, solidifying his vision with action. In the two years of the coronavirus pandem- ic, he spearheaded efforts to absorb Beck- er College's highly ranked video game design program, purchase a seven-acre parcel of land next to campus, and pro- cure $100 million in capital financing – all before he was officially inaugurated. In contrast with past presidents and in contradiction of at least one long-time community partner, Fithian sees Clark evolving into a household name not just in Greater Worcester but in Chicago, London, and Beijing. "ere had been, when I arrived, a real sense that we're a humble place and the people who need to know about us know about us," said Fithian, who was appointed in January 2020 but officially inaugurated two years later on April 30. "I'm all about humility, but I also think it's important to be able to tell your story. And that's what we need to do: we need to tell the Clark story more deeply and to a broader audience." New kid on the block As Fithian looks to draw a larger au- dience to Clark, the university's presence in its local community may be in for a change. Since the 1990s, Clark has had a significant role in the surrounding Main South neighborhood through the Uni- versity Park Partnership, a revitalization effort meant to benefit both residents and students. is partnership has been facilitated by the Main South Commu- nity Development Corp., which focuses on economic development, education, housing, and recreational initiatives. According to the MSCDC's executive director, Steve Teasdale, Clark's 30-year 12 Worcester Business Journal | May 30, 2022 | wbjournal.com President David Fithian was officially inaugurated on April 30, as the ceremony was delayed two years from his start date by the COVID pandemic. PHOTO | COURTESY OF CLARK UNIVERSITY