The Metropolitan State University of Denver community is deeply saddened by the passing of Douglas Clark, a cherished faculty member, alumnus and colleague in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. Clark, who taught from 2017 until his retirement in fall 2023, passed away in November, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and a passion for education and the environment.
Clark’s connection to MSU Denver ran deep. As an alumnus, he often reflected on his time as a student, balancing work in a grocery store’s produce department with pursuing his degree. His personal experiences shaped his approach to teaching and made him uniquely attuned to the challenges faced by many of his students.
“Doug always said that teaching was his calling and he wished he could have been in the classroom earlier in his career,” said Geography lecturer Sylvia Brady, Ph.D., a colleague and friend. “He loved MSU Denver students and his time here as a student himself. He went out of his way to share books and resources with colleagues. He was a great teacher and friend.”
A life of learning
Clark’s academic journey reflected his deep curiosity and intellectual rigor. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Denver and a master’s degree in English from the University of Colorado Denver. He also completed a bachelor’s degree in Urban Land Use from MSU Denver, followed by a master’s and a Ph.D. in Urban Geography from the University of Denver.
Before joining MSU Denver, Clark worked for 25 years as a geographic-information-system specialist and research associate at the Bureau of Reclamation on remote sensing projects, including many analyzing water-resource capacity in the western U.S. He brought this wealth of professional experience into the classroom, teaching courses such as Western Water Conflict Management, Global Water Concerns and Geography of Colorado.
“Doug was a kind, intelligent and thoughtful colleague,” said Gabrielle Katz, Ph.D., chair of the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Department and professor of Geography. “He brought considerable professional expertise to his teaching, and we all benefited from his perspective. For those of us who had the pleasure of working with him, we miss his presence, contributions and genuinely kind and engaging personality.”
No one was more devoted to students than Clark. He was known for going above and beyond to ensure their success, both academically and personally.
“He was one of the most devoted and conscientious instructors I have ever known,” said Sarah Schliemann, Ph.D., Environmental Science senior lecturer. “Doug never hesitated to do whatever he could to improve his classes. He also genuinely cared about his students’ well-being. We miss him every day.”
Honoring Douglas Clark’s life
Clark’s friends and colleagues remember him as an avid reader, a traveler and an advocate for thoughtful dialogue. He often cycled to campus, embracing a lifestyle reflective of his commitment to the environment and sustainable practices.
Douglas Clark memorial service:
Date: Monday
Time: 3-3:30 p.m.; reception to follow.
Location: Horan & McConaty Funeral Service and Cremation, 1091 S. Colorado Blvd.
