Members of the Clinton School’s founding class hold a unique place in the school’s history, and alumnus Scott Curran (’06) recently returned to campus to share the wisdom gained over his two-decade career in public service.
Following a public presentation at the Clinton Presidential Center launching his new book, “Better Good: A Simple System for Creating Lasting Impact,” Curran joined Clinton School students for a conversation moderated by Dean Victoria DeFrancesco Soto. Reframing how leaders drive societal impact, Curran reflected on his journey from corporate law to having his own consulting business in social innovation.
“I applied to the Clinton School on a complete and total whim,” Curran said, recalling the school’s earliest days. “Founding Academic Dean Dr. Tom Bruce took a map of Arkansas off the wall and described the four quarters of the state, saying, ‘This will be our learning laboratory for public service.’ He moved his finger across the state, region by region, talking about the economic, educational, and civic engines of the Ozarks, Northwest Arkansas, Eastern Arkansas, the Delta, and the geography, history, and economies connecting it all. I signed my acceptance letter before I even left for the airport.”
Curran highlighted how his initial Practicum project, working on agricultural economic development and sweet potato storage facilities in Phillips County, demonstrated the power of public service at work.
“I had no idea that would be the effect I would have when they showed me that map,” Curran said. “My time at the Clinton School allowed me to see that human beings are wired to do good, whether through government, nonprofits, or business.”
Emphasizing that meaningful public service transcends single sectors, Curran encouraged students to pursue impact wherever their careers lead. To support their journey, Curran gifted students with a complimentary copy of his new book, designed to serve as a practical guide for changemakers and nonprofit leaders.
In the spirit of giving back to the community that shaped his path, Curran is extending the same
complimentary book offer to all Clinton School alumni. Redeem your copy by visiting this link by Sept. 30.