As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on a crisp edge, there’s a unique energy that sweeps across Utah State University. Fall at USU is more than just a season; it's a time of electric anticipation, with Maverik Stadium coming alive to the roar of the Aggie faithful. The excitement extends beyond the football field, carrying through winter to the Spectrum, where the Aggie basketball teams ignite a similar fervor. For devoted Aggie alum, Clark Whitworth ’82, these experiences aren’t just fond memories — they are a cornerstone of his life, fueling a deep commitment to the university and its student-athletes.
“My father was a graduate of Utah State, and he passed away when I was just eight,” he recalls. “Growing up in Bountiful, my family always cherished sports and athletics. My mother, aunt, and uncle would take me to games at Utah State, and I vividly remember a neighbor taking me to the Spectrum the year it opened. Those moments were magical and left a lasting impression on me.”
Clark’s early memories solidified his decision to attend Utah State University, where he became a fixture at athletic events.
“I decided to go to USU and thoroughly enjoyed my time there,” he says with a smile. “I sat in the front row at the Spectrum and attended every game. Even now, I’m a season ticket holder. I tailgate two stalls from the entry gate — I’ve been doing it since before anyone else was. It’s been neat to watch the student-athletes grow and perform."
His bond with USU Athletics grew even stronger when one his daughters competed on the Aggies’ track and field team, and his son played football for Utah State.
“My daughter ran track, both indoor and outdoor, for four years,” he proudly shares. “It was a positive experience for her, and seeing her compete was incredibly rewarding.”
Clark’s support for USU Athletics goes beyond attending games. He believes in the power of giving back, especially when it comes to supporting the university’s student-athletes through the new USU Athletics Reach and Rise initiative.
“Aggie Athletics is made up of student-athletes, and that’s what our donations are going to support,” he explains. “My family and I have enjoyed every high and every low with Aggie sports. We do what we can to help, and we hope someday, we can make even bigger contributions.”
For Clark, the game experience isn’t just about the thrill of competition. It’s about this unique place and the students who make it exceptional.
“The Spectrum is unbelievable, and the football stadium, when everyone is doing the Scotsman, is something special,” he says. “These student-athletes, they work hard and you can see the result in the successes they achieve on and off the field.”
His passion for USU extends beyond athletics. As a university trustee, he’s seen firsthand the impact of a Utah State education.
After graduating with a degree in accounting from the College of Business (Jon M. Huntsman School of Business) at USU, that he believes, laid the foundation for his success, Clark began his career auditing clients for Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co. in New Orleans, Louisiana. Later, he returned to Utah to work for Deloitte & Touche before joining the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies. Rising through the ranks, he eventually retired in 2019, having led a team of veteran executives and more than 11,000 employees. Prior to becoming CEO, Clark served for 21 years as CFO, overseeing the group’s key revenue-generating divisions, including finance, insurance, real estate and automotive.
“The educational experience and opportunities at USU are amazing,” he notes. “There’s a culture among students that prepares them to be disciplined, hard workers who get the job done. When I graduated in accounting from the School of Business (Jon M. Huntsman School of Business), I went to New Orleans for my first job, and earning a top placement in the company really showed me the quality of education I received at Utah State.”
He also praises the university’s wise use of funds, ensuring that donations like his make a significant impact.
“Your donation is going to have an impact,” he says confidently. “The administration is going in the right direction — change is hard, but it’s necessary to innovate and get better all the time."
His commitment to USU is unwavering, driven by a desire to give back to the institution that gave him so much.
“I'm happy to be able to do a little bit to give back what the university gave to me,” he reflects. “Supporting the students — especially the student-athletes — is really what it’s all about. There are so many good students who deserve assistance, and I’m proud to be able to contribute to that.”
Clark is a father of five, all of whom are USU alumni, and a grandfather to eight. He and his wife, Jennifer, also an Aggie who earned her degree and graduated in 2023, are committed to the welfare and development of young people. As the years go by, his love for Utah State and its athletics program continues to grow.
“Utah State has always been a great university,” he says. “As alumni, we all need to share how great USU is and how much good it does for students and the community in so many different areas. I’m proud to be an Aggie, and I’ll keep doing whatever I can to support this incredible institution.”
For this dedicated alum, Utah State University is more than just his alma mater — it’s a lifelong passion, a source of pride, and a legacy he’s honored to uphold.
Utah State Athletics is committed to providing education, personal development and support opportunities through academic and athletic endeavors. It is USU’s goal for its student-athletes to excel in the classroom and in their personal lives, preparing them for life after college. Create Your Aggie Impact by helping student-athletes at https://www.usu.edu/advancement/campaign/students.