Thomas Arkle Clark (1862 – July 18, 1932),[1]: 43 born Thomas Arkle Metcalf and known as Tommy Arkle, was an American academic who was first to hold the position of dean of men at an American university.[1]: 28
Born and raised in rural Illinois, Clark was orphaned at a young age and was adopted by an aunt. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1890, then supervised a local school. Named an assistant professor at the university in 1893, Clark rose to full professor status in 1900. A favorite of university president Andrew S. Draper, Clark was named dean of the College of Literature in 1900, then dean of undergraduates in 1901. This office was later renamed Dean of Men, making Clark the first to hold the title. Clark was known for his ruthless vigilance over students and was particularly opposed to alcohol and automobiles. However, Clark was a friend to the Greek community in the university, rising to lead the national chapter of Alpha Tau Omega and often supporting the system in the press. He also founded Phi Eta Sigma in 1923.
- ^ a b Schwartz, Robert (2010). Deans of Men and the Shaping of Modern College Culture. Palgrave Macmillan. pp. 22–43. ISBN 978-0230622586.