In a conversation this month Chris Clark shared about his
personal involvement as a musician and the motivation for beginning the SMART
Foundation.
Chris, you are the CEO for the SMART Foundation. Some may not be aware of your music experience. What is your music background?
Chris: I have been a professional trombone player for over
25 years, having performed with groups such as the Temptations, 10,000 Maniacs
and Toni Tennille. I served as a music coach in the Saddleback, Capistrano and
Irvine schools districts since 1987, and have been the Jazz Director at Newhart
Middle School since 2006. I also served as the Assistant Director for the
Saddleback Church Orchestra from 1989 to 2005.
When did you start begin the SMART Foundation?
Chris: I started SMART (Support Music & Arts) in 2000.
It is a CA 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
What passion stirred in you that moved you to begin the nonprofit organization?
Chris: I saw the need for funding and advocacy support for
school music programs through business partnerships, social enterprise projects
and cause related marketing opportunities.
What goal did you have in mind with SMART?
Chris: The goal of the SMART Foundation is to make sure
music and arts remains a part of our children’s education because it develops
the creative, innovative and imagination skills in graduates sought by 21st
century companies.
Are there other community and advocacy interests and involvements you participate?
Chris: There are a number of important boards and opportunities
that I participate. These allow me to continue pushing forward this important
mission. I see that collaborating with other similar organizations is critical
for mutual and teamwork in the fight for music, arts and opportunities for the
increasing number that will not have this experience as part of their
education. Here’s a list of my community involvements.
VSA CA, Board Member
Support Music Coalition, Member
CA Alliance for Arts Education, Member
Orange County Music Administrators, Member
Southern California Leadership Network, Fellow
Convene, Member
Saddleback Church, Christian Counselor
written by Mike Hatcher
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