“Having an opportunity in the Eastern Sierra to grow in the local history builds a beautiful connection and pride to the amazing place we live in. – Kim”
The Clark Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to educating on the unique history and ecology of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. As part of its mission, it founded and runs the Eastern Sierra Academy.
The Clark Foundation is named for the Clark family, who first settled in the Owens Valley in 1863. Thomas and Barbra Clark arrived initially, but were followed at the conclusion of the Civil War by their adult sons Thomas Jr., Andrew, William and Milton and their families. Thomas Clark Jr. was the first pioneer in the area to summit what is now Mt. Tom, Milton Clark was the first school teacher in the Owens Valley, and Andrew Clark was the first circuit riding minister of the Eastern Sierra. Andrew and his wife Rachel are also remembered in Bishop for having donated the land for the grammar school, which is now Bishop City Hall. Descendants of the Clark family live in Bishop to this day.
Staff and Board
Carla Eckland
Carla Eckland, Eastern Sierra Academy instructor. Carla grew up in Bishop and moved back to enjoy the mellow lifestyle of a small town and ample access to the outdoors. She…
Jonathan Willy
Jonathan Willy, Eastern Sierra Academy instructor. Jonathan is a Dad, the physical science teacher at Home Street Middle School, a fisherman, mountain guide, Forest Service Ranger, search and rescue member,…
Jake Rasmuson
Jake Rasmuson is a Clark Foundation trustee and 5th generation Bishop native, having lived in the Eastern Sierra for nearly 40 years. He is a graduate of Bishop Union High…
Leanna Albrecht Beaber
Jamie and Leanna Albrecht Beaber founded the Clark Foundation from a desire to share the history of their family with their two young children. Leanna is a descendant of the Clark…
Laurel Albrecht
Laurel Albrecht is a descendant of the Clark family and has fond memories of exploring all the Owens Valley has to offer while growing up in Bishop, Ca. She is…
Kelly Willy
Kelly Willy was born here in Bishop, a place that she knew she wanted to return to after college. The mountains are home. For the past 13 years, Kelly has…
Christy Milovich
Christy Milovich is a 3rd generation Bishop native and has lived in the Eastern Sierra most of her life, returning to Bishop after completing her law degree. She is a…
