Dennis Clark is a lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, with deep roots in the East Chattanooga and Brainerd community. A graduate of the Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences, Dennis studied political science at Middle Tennessee State University. Over the past 20 years, he has built a reputation as a dynamic leader in community development, nonprofit management, and business, dedicated to driving positive change and advocating for the people.

 

Throughout his career, Dennis has served in impactful roles that uplift Chattanooga’s urban neighborhoods. As the first African American administrator at Tennessee Temple University, he led public relations and community initiatives, setting a strong foundation for diverse voices in leadership. Dennis went on to make significant contributions to local and state organizations and agencies, including the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, appointed by former TN Governor Phil Bredesen, the Public Education Foundation, Hope for the Inner City, Causeway, and The Equity Alliance  —organizations dedicated to community advancement, educational support, and building stronger neighborhoods. Currently, Dennis is the Community Impact Consultant for the Tennessee Department of Health's Southeast and Upper Cumberland regions, where he develops public health strategies across 25 counties, including Hamilton County, to improve the quality of life for residents in both rural and urban communities.

 

Dennis is not only a community organizer but also a successful small business owner, leading a transportation company specializing in school-age transportation services for the city’s largest daycare provider and regional transportation agency. This blend of experience as both a public servant and business owner gives Dennis a unique perspective on the needs of District 5.

 

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Why Dennis Clark is Running

 

Dennis Clark is running for Chattanooga City Council because he believes District 5 deserves better. He is committed to restoring accountability, transparency, and results-driven leadership for District 5 residents. With his Thrive for Five Action Plan, Dennis will focus on making sure District 5 receives its fair share of city services, revitalizing the Brainerd Road and Highway 58 business corridors, building safer, stronger, healthier communities, and advocating for our seniors.

 

Our current councilman has a record of absenteeism, missed opportunities, and unmet promises. Dennis knows that meaningful change takes both vision and hard work. He believes we need bold, experienced leadership that will prioritize the needs of the community—not special interests or developers. Dennis is running again because there is more work to be done, and he is committed to showing up and delivering real results for the people of District 5.