“You belong here. Your presence is valuable.” From the moment Associate Dean Kyle Clark set foot on campus, this message has been at the heart of his work at the University of Texas at Austin. As a champion for Black UT, Clark has dedicated his career to creating spaces where Black students feel seen, supported and empowered. Through mentorship, leadership and unwavering advocacy, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the university and its Black community.

Clark’s journey to higher education was anything but conventional. Originally on a pre-med path, he soon realized science wasn’t his calling. Struggling with coursework, he turned to mentorship and education, finding a new passion. With the support of mentors at Oklahoma State University, he majored in psychology and earned a certificate in African and African American studies. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his dedication to supporting underrepresented students. 

“I was once that struggling Black male student trying to find my place at a (primarily white institution),” Clark said. “I know what it feels like to question whether you belong.”

Arriving at UT Austin in 2001 as a graduate hall coordinator, Clark quickly immersed himself in the Black UT community. He became a mentor, an advocate and a leader, working closely with student organizations such as the Black Student Alliance and the Student African American Brotherhood. He understood that Black students needed not only representation but also a support system to thrive.

“If I can help students feel comfort and confidence in who they are and where they’re going, then I’m doing my job right,” he said.

Clark’s presence in Black UT is more than symbolic — it’s active and intentional. Whether advising student leaders, hosting one-on-one mentorship meetings or showing up at events, he ensures that students know they are not alone. He often references a quote from James Baldwin: “Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.” For Clark, visibility is power. By being an engaged and accessible leader, he hopes to inspire students to step into their own leadership roles.

His legacy within Black UT is rooted in the idea of collective progress.

“I hope Black students see that they don’t have to be like me. I want them to leap over me, to go beyond what I’ve done,” he said. 

He reflects on the mentors who supported him and emphasizes the importance of paying it forward.

“I was guided by people who told me, ‘Not only can you do this, but you will. And I’m going to help you get there.’ Now, it’s my turn to do the same for others.”

Clark’s influence extends beyond the Black UT community. 

“It’s important for white students to see Black leadership, to understand that excellence and authority come in many forms,” he emphasized. “Representation matters, not just for those who look like me, but for those who don’t, so they too can see a different perspective on leadership, success and mentorship.”

His work within Moody College is a reflection of this philosophy.

“I want Black students to see themselves as leaders in every space — not just in Black spaces, but across the university,” he said. 

Through initiatives designed to elevate Black voices, he pushes students to challenge themselves, embrace opportunities and break barriers: “We don’t have to wait for permission to take up space. We deserve to be here, and we bring immense value to every room we enter.”

Beyond leadership development, Clark is committed to instilling confidence. He encourages students to embrace their imperfections, take risks and trust in their abilities.

 “Success doesn’t mean perfection,” he said. “It means believing in yourself enough to keep pushing forward, even when things aren’t clear.” 

His legacy at UT is deeply personal. He recalls his own struggles as a Black student navigating higher education and the mentors who guided him through. Now, he strives to be that pillar of support for the next generation.

“I hope students remember that I cared,” he said. “Not just about their academic success, but about them as individuals.” Maya Angelou’s words resonate deeply with him: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” 

Clark hopes his presence leaves students feeling empowered, encouraged and capable of achieving greatness. 

“I’m not here to be the pinnacle of success,” he said. “I’m here to catapult students beyond what even they think is possible.”