University of Richmond alum in Alaska supports UR Here Giving Day every year

Each year, the success of UR Here Giving Day relies on the generosity of the University of Richmond community, especially its Spider alumni – no matter where they are.

John Clark, G’78, has been vital to the campaign’s success. As one of UR’s only donors living in Alaska, Clark’s support has helped secure participation from all 50 U.S. states for four years. He has given to his alma mater for more than three decades overall.

A retired biometrician for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), Clark attended UR as an undergraduate for three years before deciding to join the Peace Corps, which required him to transfer to SUNY Brockport in New York so he could learn Spanish. He taught science and math in Peru for two years before returning to UR for a graduate degree in biology. He then earned a Ph.D. in oceanography from Old Dominion University before moving to Juneau to begin his career with ADF&G.

Focusing on Chinook salmon (the largest Pacific salmon species) and shellfish, Clark designed surveys and gathered statistical data to analyze the evolving marine populations and changing fishing patterns across the Alaskan coast. Much of this research took place on commercial boating and diving expeditions that Clark greatly enjoyed.

“I have so many memories it’s hard to choose one,” he said. “I remember swimming through a kelp forest and following a rare wolf eel – it’s a magical world down there, seeing all the plants and animals. And getting to sit on the boat and watch the sun set – a coworker once said to me, ‘many people pay to do this, and we’re getting paid to be here.’”

Clark and his wife, Cathy Botelho (also a retired marine biologist), live in a log cabin that they built by hand on Lena Cove, a scenic coastal area along Juneau's Glacier Highway.

“These days, I spend my time keeping up with house chores and maintaining our firewood supply,” he said. “We have a 22-foot fishing boat, so we go out and fish to keep our freezer stocked for the seasons. We also love spending time with our granddaughter.”

Clark said he gives back to UR to pay it forward for future Spider students. He especially enjoys supporting the Boatwright Memorial Library, which was his “second home” on campus. 

“I owe Richmond a debt of gratitude for getting me through my master’s program,” he said. “I think a big part of the college experience for students is the social environment – I grew up and matured so much. I’m very grateful for the time I had there." 

Save the date for UR Here Giving Day 2026, taking place April 8-9.