Employee Spotlight: Jim Clark

Jim Clark, the Technical Services Librarian at CFCC, has had a varied career path, working in several different industries before finding his passion in education. He pursued a degree in Library and Information Science and became CFCC’s archivist, focusing on preserving the college’s history. His efforts are appreciated by his colleagues, including Jacob Deininger, who values Jim’s commitment to the college and his Halloween collection.

“Jim is an outstanding coworker because he deeply cares about the success of CFCC students and his coworkers. Bonus: Jim is BIG into Halloween (you should see his office).”

As he juggled his duties in the CFCC archives, Jim found time to pause and share his story.

WHAT YEAR DID YOU START WORKING AT CFCC AND WHAT BROUGHT YOU HERE?

I started working here in 2017. My wife, a University of North Carolina – Wilmington graduate, wanted to move closer to her mother in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I enjoy working with a diverse group of students, faculty, and community members to provide exceptional reference, technological, and instructional services. In my role as archivist, I feel extremely fortunate to preserve and promote the rich history of Cape Fear Community College.

WHEN YOU’RE NOT WORKING, WHAT DO YOU DO?

My free time is devoted to my family. My son is in middle school and is involved with several sports teams. My wife loves to travel, so we see as much of the world as we can. I’m also a huge Halloween and film fan, so my office reflects my love of both worlds. We are also attempting to raise a high-energy golden retriever.

WHO HAD THE GREATEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR EDUCATION AND/OR CAREER PATH?

My wife has had the greatest influence on me. She’s the most brilliant person I know and her advice and insights have been invaluable in shaping my career path.

WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

My dad used to say, “Cold is just a state of mind.” It’s a quote from Minnesota Vikings coach Bud Grant. I’ve always seen it as good advice; after all, it’s our perception of circumstance and not the circumstances themselves that really matter.

WHAT IS SOMETHING NOT MANY PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I was in the Guinness World Book of Records (for probably a few days) for participating in the largest line dance.

DEGREES & CERTIFICATES

• Currently working on Information Technology Software Development Certificate at Cape Fear Community College, Wilmington, NC
• M.L.I.S. – University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
• M.S. Rehabilitation Counseling – Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN
• B.A. English – Mankato State University, Mankato, MN
• North Carolina Public Librarian Certificate (No. 10823)

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Association for Library Collections & Technical Services
• Association of College & Research Libraries
• Azalea Coast Library Association
• Reference and User Services Association
• Society of American Archivists
• National Strength and Conditioning Association