SLCC Honors Provost Clifton Sanders

Dr. Clifton Sanders speaking at special ceremony in his honor.

Scholar. Educator. Musician. Theologian. Mentor. Renaissance man. These were just a few of the words used to describe SLCC Provost of Academic Affairs Dr. Clifton Sanders during a special ceremony last week introducing the Dr. Clifton G. Sanders Social Justice Institute and Special Collection Room at the South City Campus. 

The ceremony on March 2 highlighted Dr. Sanders’ work and his many talents and accomplishments. The room that bears his name is designed to serve as a permanent tribute to his life and to the service he has given to SLCC and the community. When completed, the space will be open to all and emphasize the concepts of community engagement, learning and reconciliation. 

During the event, several speakers reflected on the many roles Dr. Sanders has filled over the past four decades. One of Dr. Sanders’ first colleagues at SLCC, Dr. Dave Richardson, spoke of Clifton’s love for learning and his impact on the chemistry department. “I met Clifton and I said to myself, ‘This is an extraordinary individual. A man of great talent.’ The phrase that popped into my head was ‘Renaissance man,’ because he had so many different attributes and strengths he could share with students and with the college… When Clifton joined the chemistry faculty, we heard nothing but praise from his colleagues and from students, and we all agreed we needed more people like Clifton.” 

Dr. Richardson also talked of the discoveries he made about Dr. Sanders as they worked together. “As we got closer, I discovered he was a theologian, and he played the saxophone and other instruments and writes music as well. This guy understands chemistry, theology and the language of the universe… music. The space you are naming in his honor is a deserved honor for him because of the work he has done for this institution.” 

Dr. Sanders playing the saxophone at the naming ceremony. 

George Brown, leader of the George Brown Quintet, also honored Dr. Sanders. “We’ve had a 30 year relationship together with music, but our relationship is much larger than music. During the time we spent together, we’ve talked about the universe, spirituality and everything. Clifton is a gift from the universe. I’ve become a better person because of Clifton.”

Also during the event, the College unveiled a portrait of Dr. Sanders created by local artist Lamont Joseph White. After the unveiling, Dr. Sanders reflected on the early inspiration he received from his grandmother, who due to poverty had to end her education after fifth grade and work as a seamstress to support her family.  

“We are here today because of Mabel Howard. She filled her house with books. I first learned of adventurers and scientists because of books Mabel Howard purchased… There is no doubt in my mind that Mabel Howard’s legacy is the true reason for today’s events.” 

Portrait of Dr. Sanders by local artist Lamont Joseph White was unveiled at event. 

Dr. Sanders also spoke of SLCC’s role in the lives of students and about his vision for the space. “I firmly believe students bring their lives and their communities and cultures to take a chance on SLCC, and because of this, they are worthy of our respect and our inspiration,” he said. “Transformative educational leadership at its best… is engaging risk, making meaning, finding resilience to keep dreaming, and the courage to do the right things in meekness, love and truth, especially in these mean times… All I ask is that you cultivate this space as respect for us all.”  

Dr. Sanders is a graduate of Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota and holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Utah. During his 30 years at SLCC, he has served as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Chair of the Division of Natural Sciences, Interim Vice President for Workforce and Literacy Development, Dean of the School of Science, Mathematics and Engineering, and the Provost of Academic Affairs. He has also worked as an adjunct professor at the Salt Lake Theological Seminary. 

Dr. Sanders with members of the SLCC community at naming ceremony.