Biography
Education & Certification
• M.Music / Teacher Licensure, Belmont University, Nashville, TN (2008–2010)
• M.A. Music/Vocal Performance, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN (1999–2001)
• B.A. Music, Morris Brown College, Atlanta, GA (1994–1999)
Certified in K–12 Vocal/General Music Education in Tennessee, Georgia, and Washington State
Orff-Schulwerk Level I & II Certified
Courtney D. Clark has a wealth of experience in arts administration, performing, and teaching music. She is committed to creating positive social impact and building up communities by connecting people to—and through—the arts.
She brings to her role a range of valuable skills, including strategic planning, budget management, visionary team leadership in the arts, and driving change and innovation within the performing arts field.
Prior to her appointment as Director of Engagement for the School of Drama at the University of Washington, Courtney led Arizona Opera’s adult learning programs, community engagement, and DEI initiatives as Director of Community Alliances.
Before that, she served as Seattle Opera’s School Programs Manager, leading the curriculum, development, and growth of opera and multi-arts learning programs for students and teachers across Washington State.
Courtney is also a tenured public school Music Educator and Arts Integration Specialist, having previously taught K–5 music education, where she integrated arts into core subjects to enhance students' creativity and learning.
As an opera singer, Courtney has performed in concerts and solo engagements in the U.S. and abroad, and was a tenured chorister for Nashville Opera.
A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Courtney is actively involved in arts education advocacy in Washington State. She has served on numerous committees and boards, including ArtsEd Washington, the Statewide Arts Advocacy Committee, the Creative Advantage Advisory Committee, Seattle Opera’s Racial Equity Task Force, Seattle King County NAACP, and Arts4All.
Courtney is passionate about this work. She brings deep dedication and intentionality to advancing racial equity in arts education, striving to create a more socially just world through the lens of music and the transformative practice of diversity, equity, and inclusion.