In 2001, a motorcycle accident almost ended the life of Pam Clark ('87). With her spinal cord severed, lungs collapsed and ribs cracked, Clark's miracle is not in survival, but in her determination to "experience victory in trauma."

Since her accident, Clark says she has "seen the goodness, love, generosity and hard work of people," primarily through her reign as 2004 Ms. Wheelchair Virginia. At the state level, Clark says her role has given her the opportunity to speak to, interact with and positively influence people of all walks of life. In July, Clark was named second runner-up in the 32nd Annual Ms. Wheelchair America pageant.

An early childhood education major, Clark earned her Ph.D. in education administration from the University of Virginia. She works at the Piedmont Tech Prep Consortium, where she coordinates activities, curriculum, events, integrated instruction and partnerships between area chambers of commerce, middle and high schools, and local colleges. She is also a marketing specialist for the Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority.

Clark says she enjoys being an advocate for all people with disabilities. She travels extensively around Virginia, making public appearances and speaking to groups to share the Ms. Wheelchair mission and message: "People with disabilities have untapped potential and are people of achievement and ability. Too often, architectural and attitudinal barriers remain that impede the quality of life for the more than 50 million Americans with disabilities."

Clark has addressed politicians on Capitol Hill and in regional offices. She has also represented people with disabilities at a variety of events throughout the commonwealth including an Educators to Industry meeting, a Richmond Citizens Against Crime event, the Virginia Association of Rehabilitation Professionals annual meeting, the Virginia Disability Expo and the Virginia Health Department's Disability Task Force meeting. Clark's busy schedule also includes numerous speeches at churches, civic clubs, hospitals, medical conferences and schools. "Influencing social change is one of the most rewarding paths I have traveled," says Clark. "I want others to strive for excellence in all they aspire to do. We should always move forward despite hardships … and know there is life after devastation. I want others to realize that happiness is a choice."

Learn more about Clark at www.mswheelchairva.com.

-- Kyra Papafil ('05)