Feb. 7, 2011
For Immediate Release

By Phil Carlisle, student news writer

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - “Life is not always easy, but God is always with you,” Dr. Johnnie Clark shared in his message at chapel last week.

“You have to come to grips with reality,” Clark said. “Whether it's the loss of a loved one, not enough money, difficult classes or whatever else it may be, you can overcome it, for the Lord thy God is with thee, wherever thou go.”

Clark, a former pastor of Burnett Avenue Baptist Church in Louisville, was invited to speak in honor of Black History Month. However, his message, which was taken from the Old Testament book of Joshua, was one of hope and inspiration for people of every race.

“Sometimes you're walking around just waiting for God to move,” Clark said. “But you already have the only advantage you'll ever need to achieve the tasks which God has given you.”

Clark was the first African-American member of the CU Board of Trustees and is currently serving in his 11th year on the Board. In November he received the CU Honorary Alumnus Award, which was presented to him by Dr. Michael V. Carter, president of Campbellsville University.

“Dr. Clark has committed his life to helping people live with respect and integrity across racial lines,” Dr. Carter said. “He is an individual who listens carefully, weighs judicially, and when he speaks people listen. He truly has a servant's heart.”

While we are currently celebrating Black History Month, Clark said Black history simply completes American history.
“My history is your history. We have never been alone in our struggle for justice,” Clark said. “We have walked this road together. We made this nation together. And today we defend this nation together.”

In his final message, Clark challenged the students not to lose faith when life gets tough.

“All we have to do is stay on the battlefield,” Clark said. “With God, the victory is already won.”

Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with over 3,000 students offering 63 undergraduate programs, 17 master's degrees and five postgraduate areas. The website for complete information is campbellsville.edu.

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