Jack T. Clark Foundation History

Jack T. Clark, DDS, MAGD (Master of the Academy of General Dentistry) was a co-founder of the Texas Academy of General Dentistry, the first president and is often referred to as the ‘Father of TAGD.’ Dr. Clark gave a lifetime of service to his Fort Worth Community and his profession, advancing the principle of lifelong learning to provide the public with the best possible care.

A historic overview of what has become the Jack T. Clark Foundation reflects an ever-increasing scope and commitment to public health interests. Initiated in response to specific and narrow needs, over the years, the Foundation’s purpose and mission have developed and grown large. While retaining a focus on strengthening the profession, concern for the oral health needs of Texans continues to build.

The Jack T. Clark Foundation began in the 1980s when Fort Worth dentists honored their fellow professional, Dr. Clark, by offering scholarships to area students attending Baylor Dental School in his name. After establishing a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, they ultimately elected to place it under the auspices of the TAGD. A three-year grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas underscored a focus on oral cancer, working in conjunction with the Dental Oncology Education Program.

Success in that arena prompted the Board to look wider and broaden the scope of the Jack T. Clark Foundation mission, expanding it to address the oral health needs of all Texans affected by cancer. Because the Foundation is dentist-driven and oral cancer is an area in which they can be particularly helpful, we continue to support related educational programs and oral cancer screenings as we develop programs in keeping with the newly-expanded mission.

The Foundation continually works to fulfill Dr. Clark’s legacy of excellent dental education and professional service to the community.

The Jack T. Clark Foundation – History and Selected Accomplishments