Clark University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Clark University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, academic affairs, and student engagement.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Clark University is dedicated to fostering a transformative educational experience that addresses social and human imperatives on a global scale, embodying its motto to challenge convention.

Leadership Roles at Clark University

  • President - Yu Kosaka
  • Golf Club President - Eliot Smith
  • Club President - Kai Cecil
  • President of Clark Men's Ultimate Frisbee Club - Charles VandenBosch
  • Herban Gardeners Club President - Owen Chase
  • President - John Bassett
  • Co-President - Zachary Rutherford
  • Senior President - Meghan Burr
  • Professor, Practice & SPS - David Fithian
  • Director, Strategic Initiatives - Lamara Burgess
  • Yu Kosaka - President

    Yu Kosaka, the President at Clark University, directs the overarching strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Kosaka guides the university's commitment to liberal arts-based research, ensuring that Clark remains a transformative force in higher education. This leadership involves fostering an environment where faculty and students collaborate across disciplines to address complex global challenges. The President oversees the integration of the LEEP model, which combines rigorous academic study with practical world and workplace experiences. Kosaka's role is critical in advancing Clark's national reputation as a college that changes lives. The President ensures that the university's resources are aligned with its core values and strategic objectives, driving forward initiatives in areas such as natural sciences, psychology, and international development. Yu Kosaka's leadership solidifies Clark's position as an institution dedicated to impactful scholarship and societal contribution.

    Eliot Smith - Golf Club President

    Eliot Smith, the Golf Club President at Clark University, manages the operational and strategic direction of the university's golf club. Smith oversees all club activities, including practice schedules, tournament participation, and member engagement. This role involves coordinating with university athletics departments and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. Smith is responsible for fostering a positive and competitive environment for student athletes. The Golf Club President also handles budget management and fundraising efforts to support the club's objectives. Eliot Smith's leadership ensures the continued development and success of the golf program within the broader context of Clark University's commitment to student life and extracurricular excellence. Smith's efforts contribute to the vibrant campus community.

    Kai Cecil - Club President

    Kai Cecil, the Club President at Clark University, leads a specific student organization, driving its initiatives and operational effectiveness. Cecil is responsible for the strategic planning and execution of the club's activities, ensuring alignment with the broader university environment. This leadership role involves managing club resources, coordinating member participation, and representing the organization within the campus community. Kai Cecil's focus is on enhancing the student experience through dedicated club programming and engagement. The Club President works to foster a sense of community and shared purpose among members, contributing to the vibrant extracurricular landscape at Clark University. Cecil's efforts support the university's commitment to providing diverse opportunities for student development and involvement.

    Charles VandenBosch - President of Clark Men's Ultimate Frisbee Club

    Charles VandenBosch, the President of Clark Men's Ultimate Frisbee Club at Clark University, directs the operations and strategic development of the men's ultimate frisbee team. VandenBosch oversees team practices, competition schedules, and recruitment efforts, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and athletic achievement. This role involves managing team finances, coordinating travel for events, and ensuring adherence to university club policies. Charles VandenBosch's leadership aims to promote sportsmanship and competitive excellence within the club. The President works to enhance the team's visibility and participation in collegiate ultimate frisbee circuits. VandenBosch's dedication contributes to the dynamic student life and athletic opportunities available at Clark University, supporting the holistic development of student athletes.

    Owen Chase - Herban Gardeners Club President

    Owen Chase, the Herban Gardeners Club President at Clark University, leads initiatives focused on sustainable gardening and environmental stewardship within the campus community. Chase manages club operations, including organizing gardening projects, educational workshops, and community outreach events. This role involves coordinating volunteer efforts and securing resources to support the club's horticultural activities. Owen Chase's leadership promotes hands-on learning experiences related to environmental studies and urban agriculture, aligning with Clark's commitment to addressing ecological challenges. The Herban Gardeners Club President fosters a collaborative environment for students interested in sustainability and green practices. Chase's dedication enhances the university's engagement with environmental issues and community well-being.

    John Bassett - President

    John Bassett, the President at Clark University, holds a pivotal leadership position responsible for guiding the institution's strategic direction and operational execution. Bassett oversees the university's commitment to its liberal arts-based research mission, ensuring academic excellence and innovation across all departments. This role involves fostering collaborations that address significant social and human imperatives on a global scale. John Bassett's leadership is instrumental in advancing Clark's pioneering LEEP model, integrating academic rigor with practical experience. The President works to enhance the university's national standing and its reputation as a transformative educational institution. Bassett's strategic oversight ensures that Clark University continues to challenge convention and drive meaningful impact in higher education and beyond.

    Zachary Rutherford - Co-President

    Zachary Rutherford, the Co-President at Clark University, shares leadership responsibilities for a specific student organization, driving its objectives and operational success. Rutherford collaborates with fellow leadership to set strategic priorities and execute club activities, ensuring a vibrant and engaging experience for members. This role involves managing club resources, fostering member participation, and representing the organization within the university framework. Zachary Rutherford's focus is on enhancing the student community through dedicated club programming and initiatives. The Co-President works to cultivate a supportive environment that encourages personal and collective growth. Rutherford's contributions support Clark University's broader commitment to student development and extracurricular engagement, enriching the campus life.

    Meghan Burr - Senior President

    Meghan Burr, the Senior President at Clark University, holds a significant leadership position within a student organization, guiding its strategic direction and operational management. Burr oversees the execution of club initiatives, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and the university's values. This role involves managing team dynamics, coordinating complex projects, and representing the group's interests. Meghan Burr's leadership focuses on fostering excellence and driving impactful outcomes for the organization. The Senior President works to enhance the member experience and strengthen the organization's presence within the Clark University community. Burr's dedication contributes to the dynamic student life and the development of leadership skills among students, supporting the university's educational mission.

    David Fithian - Professor, Practice & SPS

    David Fithian, the Professor, Practice & SPS at Clark University, contributes expertise to the School of Professional Studies (SPS) and its practical application of academic principles. Fithian's role involves bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world professional challenges, aligning with Clark's LEEP model of combining liberal education with effective practice. This position focuses on developing curricula and delivering instruction that prepares students for impactful careers. David Fithian's work supports the university's mission to address social and human imperatives by equipping students with relevant skills and insights. The Professor, Practice & SPS engages with industry leaders to ensure the relevance of academic programs and fosters opportunities for student internships and experiential learning. Fithian's contributions enhance Clark's reputation for providing transformative educational experiences.

    Lamara Burgess - Director, Strategic Initiatives

    Lamara Burgess, the Director, Strategic Initiatives at Clark University, spearheads key projects and programs designed to advance the university's long-term goals and institutional priorities. Burgess focuses on identifying opportunities for growth and innovation, ensuring that strategic plans are effectively implemented across various departments. This role involves close collaboration with university leadership to align initiatives with the core mission of liberal arts-based research and addressing global imperatives. Lamara Burgess plays a crucial part in enhancing Clark's transformative educational model, LEEP, by developing and supporting programs that connect academic learning with real-world application. Burgess's work contributes to strengthening the university's capacity to tackle complex challenges in fields such as environmental studies and international development. Lamara Burgess's strategic direction supports Clark's commitment to impactful scholarship and societal change.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Clark University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Clark University?
    Clark University is led by Yu Kosaka (President), along with executives such as Eliot Smith (Golf Club President) and Kai Cecil (Club President).
    Who is part of Clark University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Clark University includes leaders such as Yu Kosaka (President), Eliot Smith (Golf Club President), Kai Cecil (Club President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Clark University have?
    Clark University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Clark University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Clark University includes roles such as President, Golf Club President, Club President, President of Clark Men's Ultimate Frisbee Club, Herban Gardeners Club President.