Campus News 

We kicked things off with our annual Honors Banquet on April 25, recognizing the outstanding academic and leadership achievements of our students. This year’s recipient of the Francis J. O’Connor Award, the most prestigious award given to a graduating senior, was Kainoa Gerard.

In the days that followed, campus was buzzing with events that honored our graduating students—from pinning ceremonies and international student stole celebrations to many moments in between. It’s been a vibrant few weeks, filled with pride and community spirit. 

Now that finals are behind us, I want to acknowledge the dedication and resilience shown by students, faculty, and staff alike. Whether in the classroom, through research, or across co-curricular activities, this semester has been rich with learning, growth, and meaningful connection. Thank you all for making it such a memorable chapter in our shared journey! 

We closed out the semester with a truly special Commencement ceremony this past weekend, celebrating the Class of 2025. Surrounded by family, friends, and our campus community, our newest graduates walked across the stage with pride and purpose. A full recap, highlights, and a link to the ceremony recording can be found here. 

Although the academic year has ended, our connection continues. Beginning this month, I’ll send my updates once-a-month to keep you informed on key initiatives, upcoming opportunities, and stories that highlight the heart of our community. Be sure to check your inbox for updates through August. 



Wishing everyone a restful, fulfilling, and well-deserved summer break! 

Strategic Plan Update   

The summer session grants us time to reflect on the accomplishments of 2024-2025. Under the banner of the strategic plan, we have developed a new general education program and refreshed much of our curriculum as a whole. On a particularly exciting note, that will include the launch of a new Exercise Science program for fall 2026.  

Of course, the student experience extends beyond the classroom and we have much to look forward to in the year ahead! After receiving input from the Clarke Student Association, Residence Life, and many other organizations and individuals, we are revamping several areas for 2025-2026. This includes improved meal plans and dining options, the introduction of themed living & learning communities in our residence halls and other initiatives focused on holistic wellness.  



These are just some of the projects advancing our strategic plan. Thank you to all the faculty, staff, and students involved in making these ideas a reality! 

Living our Legacy Spotlight

Jenny Parker, Resource and Metadata Librarian, is in this volume’s spotlight. 

Living our legacy stems from our mission:  

Clarke University is a Catholic academic community that believes learning is lifelong and life changing. We inspire intellectual curiosity, cultural engagement, professional preparedness, spiritual exploration, and a commitment to contributing to the common good in a global society.   

Jenny has played a pivotal role in student support, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive space in our library that fosters academic success and personal connection. Whether curating resources or organizing events that serve students, faculty, and staff, Jenny brings community to campus in everything she does.  

This extends beyond her role as librarian – Jenny has been a fantastic supporter of many of our international students, the CUpboard + Closet Project, and other initiatives that bring our Core Values to life. She carries these values into Dubuque as well, through volunteering with the Dubuque County Reads program, sharing her skills with the Herb Society of Dubuque, and even fostering a litter of puppies, much to the delight of her young sons. 

Thank you, Jenny, for spreading a little kindness in all that you do and living our legacy every day. 

Go Pride! 

Fletch

Visit our Newsroom webpage to learn more about all the great things happening on campus and in the wider community!

Clarke University

www.clarke.edu