In Memoriam: Dwight Clark

It is with profound sadness that the Parami University community mourns the passing of Dwight Clark, Trustee of Parami University since January 3, 2022, and a longtime supporter of the University. He passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at Channing House in Palo Alto.

The world has lost an extraordinary human being — a mentor, educator, and friend whose life was defined by humility, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to young people. Dwight consistently placed others’ interests before his own. Though he lived modestly, he gave abundantly. It was Dwight who made the first-ever donation to Parami University, personally supporting its founding vision in Myanmar. His generosity never ceased; even in his final days, he asked what more he could do for Burmese youth and ultimately pledged nearly all he had to support Parami’s mission.

A former Dean of Freshmen Men at Stanford University and the founder of Volunteers in Asia (VIA), Dwight dedicated over four decades to building cross-cultural bridges between the United States and Asia. Through VIA and later initiatives, he created transformative opportunities for thousands of students to engage in meaningful exchange and service. His life’s work centered on expanding global perspectives, deepening intercultural understanding, and nurturing ethical leadership.

Parami President and undergraduate students visited Dwight Clark following the 2024 summer program in the United States.

Dwight often expressed how fortunate he felt to be associated with both Parami University and VIA. In his own words: “Parami University stands as a beacon of hope for Burmese students whose dreams were shattered by the military coup in early 2021. Parami provides both formal and non-formal educational opportunities, nurturing the minds and spirits of the future leaders of Burma. As a board member, I am deeply moved by the resilience and determination of its students.”

Japan held a special place in Dwight’s heart. As he wrote: “The Dwight Clark Cross-Cultural Program will enable twelve undergraduate students at Parami University to participate in a VIA-organized two-week-long experiential trip hosted at International Christian University (ICU) in Japan, a country that has left an indelible mark on me.”

The Dwight Clark Cross-Cultural Program — a collaboration between Parami University and VIA — was implemented under Dwight’s blessing. The leaders of both organizations worked to realize this vision before his passing, knowing how deeply it reflected his lifelong dedication to cross-cultural understanding. Hosted at International Christian University in Tokyo, the program seeks to cultivate leadership, cooperation, and sustainability among Parami students through immersive engagement with Japanese communities and institutions.

In his letter, Dwight concluded with words that now serve as both blessing and legacy:

“May this program inspire generations of learners to embrace the beauty of cross-cultural understanding. May it encourage them to carry forth the spirit of generosity and kindness, values I have cherished throughout my life. May this help cultivate a world where empathy and compassion reign, guiding us toward a brighter future.”

Dwight Clark deeply believed in the transformative power of education, the dignity of every human being, and the responsibility of leaders to serve others with empathy and compassion. His presence in a classroom was unforgettable — attentive, patient, and profoundly respectful. He saw each student. He believed in their potential.

We owe much of Parami University’s existence and spirit to Dwight. His legacy lives on in every student empowered to lead ethically and serve humanity across borders.

Dwight, you will be dearly missed. May you rest in peace.