CCS senior partner Matt Clark chosen by Bakersfield Life magazine as one of ’20 Under 40 People to Watch’

Bakersfield personal injury lawyer Matthew C. Clark has been chosen as one of the “20 Under 40 People to Watch” by Bakersfield Life Magazine for 2014.

Clark was featured in the 20 Under 40 feature in the local monthly lifestyle magazine released Saturday, June 28, in The Bakersfield Californian. It was the second annual 20 Under 40 feature, where about 100 up and coming local young professionals between 18 and 39 years old were nominated.

“It was difficult to choose, but in the end, Bakersfield Life’s selection committee could only honor 20 of these shining stars who are doing brilliant things for the city they call home,” according to the magazine. “Each leader is making their mark in a different way; some own their own businesses while others have put in time and love to causes dear to their heart.”

Clark was honored with 19 other local honorees during a recognition ceremony on Friday, June 27 at The Mark Restaurant, the day before the magazine was released.

“It’s an honor to be a part of this group. It makes me proud to live here,” Clark said after receiving a plaque and several certificates from local dignitaries and elected officials. “I moved back here after school … And being around all of you reminds me of why I moved.”

The magazine highlighted Clark’s community service, inspirations and secret talents, among other things. It read as follows:

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Matthew C. Clark

Attorney/senior partner with Chain | Cohn | Clark

Age: 38

Community involvement: Clinica Sierra Vista board, San Joaquin Community Hospital Foundation board, Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Miracle Society member, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Walk in Kern County volunteer and board member.

Professional in your field who inspires you: Although this may sound contrived, I am honestly inspired by my law partners, Dave Cohn, Dave Stiles and Jim Yoro. My successes are a result of their mentoring and encouragement.

Secret talent: Since helping my in-laws build a pizza oven in their backyard, I’ve become a pretty decent pizza chef. Also, it’s been said that I have an “intimidating head of hair,” at least according to Scott Cox.

How do you hope to make a difference in Bakersfield? I grew up in Bakersfield, moved away for school and then returned. I’ve been back for about 13 years now. During this time, I have worked with clients of every imaginable background and one thing is universal to all of them — the need for quality, local medical care. Through my volunteer activities and affiliations, I have tried to commit my time toward this goal and will continue to do so in the future.

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Read the magazine version online or read the entire magazine online.