Clarke University Magazine 2025

2024 -2025

THE MAGAZINE OF CLARKE UNIVERSITY is published annually for alumni, parents, and friends of Clarke University.

INSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS Fletcher Lamkin, Ph.D. President Courtney Leonard Vice President for Institutional Advancement Gayle Langel '08, '17 MOL Associate Vice President for Marketing & Communication

CONTRIBUTORS

In this Issue 2

ADVANCING WITH PURPOSE

8

MUSING ON THE TENTH MUSE

14

A TALE OF FRIENDSHIP

20

BEYOND SOCCER

26

25 YEARS OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SCHOOL

28

BUILDING THE FAMILY LEGACY

Erica Davidson '23 Director of Annual Funds Elena Dominguez '20 '21 MSW Director of Alumni Relations Megan Hinderman Marketing Content Strategist

DESIGNER Amber Kickbush ’13 Graphic Designer

CONTACT INFORMATION Clarke University 1550 Clarke Drive Dubuque, IA 52001-3198 (563)588-6318 clarke.edu

Clarke University does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or disability in its educational programs, admissions policies, employment practices, financial aid, athletics, or other universityadministered programs. Clarke University complies with all pertinent state and federal regulations concerning affirmative action, non-discrimination, and equal employment opportunity.

A graduate thanks his professor following Commencement on May 10, 2025.

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A MESSAGE FROM

Clarke University

Greetings!

In this year’s magazine, we are proud to share stories from cherished Clarke events and experiences, including time-honored traditions and new opportunities for the students of today. Stories range from the work of our Mission & Core Values Committee and their year-long focus on the Core Value of Freedom (p. 4) to lively performances that entertain and inspire, like the Edward J. & Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke Series (p. 12-13).

These moments are what motivate us to keep going when challenges arise—a definite reality for Clarke and the higher education sector as a whole. When faced with demographic shifts and increased financial strain, we must respond with resilience and vision. This is the driving force behind our 2023-2026 Strategic Plan and we're proud to share an extensive update on our progress beginning on page 2. With a focus on student success, we've raised over $13 million in philanthropic support since June 2023.

These funds empower us to revitalize our curriculum, explore new academic programs, and seek strategic partnerships that reflect our mission—not compromise it. Rest assured, our Catholic educational mission and the BVM Core Values remain at the heart of everything we do. As we hope you see in the stories of students, alumni, faculty, and staff captured in this magazine, Clarke’s identity and BVM legacy continue to be the cornerstones of our educational community.

As we continue to advance, we invite you to be a part of the story, now more than ever. Your support—whether through giving, mentoring, referring students, or sharing your Clarke experience—is our mission in action. Mary Frances Clarke urged us to be “progressive with the times,” and thanks to you, we are.

With gratitude and optimism,

Fletcher Lamkin, Ph.D. President

Courtney Leonard Vice President for Institutional Advancement

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Advancing Purpose

with

The 2024–2025 academic year marks the midpoint of Clarke University’s strategic plan. While year one focused

our strategic priorities remain:

on defining strategic priorities and goals, this year has seen major strides toward bringing that plan to life.

RISING TO MEET OUR INDUSTRY CHALLENGES Our strategic plan was crafted with an eye on the future and shaped by the changing landscape of higher education.

Across the country, colleges are grappling with declining high school graduation rates, alongside persistent learning gaps from the COVID-19 pandemic, growing skepticism about the value of a degree, and rising operational costs.

GOAL

1

Live Our Mission and Values

GOAL

2

Empower Student Success

GOAL

3

Sustain Institutional Vitality

GOAL

Clarke is not immune to these pressures. But we are rising to meet them with determination, focus, and a forward-thinking vision.

4

Cultivate a Lasting Legacy

A NEW ACADEMIC ERA One of the achievements of the strategic plan was a comprehensive review of Clarke’s academic offerings.

Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our faculty and staff, the following changes will take effect for fall 2025 and beyond:

•

A more streamlined structure of academic programs, giving students greater flexibility to pursue a double major or minor without significantly extending their time at Clarke.

•

A new general education program launching in fall 2025 that reflects Clarke’s liberal arts foundation and BVM Catholic heritage while equipping students with crucial knowledge and skills.

Experiential learning is key to academic success at Clarke, such as the Doctor of Physical Therapy practicum, which

•

All academic programs will enjoy a revitalized curriculum

offers free services to community members.

aligned to their respective fields. Making the path from a degree to the workforce clear is a key component

The curriculum review also sparked opportunities for growth,

of demonstrating the value of a Clarke education and

such as the creation of a new Exercise Science major, made

increasing our overall retention rate.

possible through a generous donor gift.

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STUDENT SUCCESS AT HEART At Clarke, student success goes beyond academics.

Social, emotional, and financial support are central to our mission of helping students thrive.

Beginning this summer, a donor-supported initiative is enabling Clarke to establish a new professional partnership called Moving the Needle that enhances campus-wide systems and interventions for student retention. This immersive approach supports our goal of achieving an 80 percent first-to-second year student retention rate.

Complementing this work is the development of a Student Success Center, planned within the current library

“No matter what I go to the Academic Support Center for, someone is there to help,” Danyel said.

“It’s nice to know exactly where to go and have a team that will listen and guide me.”

footprint. The first phase began in fall 2024 with the Academic Support Center, which brought advising, career services, the

In the future, the Student Success Center will include

writing center, and more into one space. The change has been

admissions, student engagement, and other aspects of student

well received by students, like Danyel Rieck ’27.

life to make this one-stop location even more beneficial.

MOMENTUM IN GIVING

LOOKING AHEAD WITH CONFIDENCE

In June 2023, Clarke began an important fundraising initiative

These transformative efforts underscore Clarke’s enduring

to address key priorities. To date, more than $13 million has

commitment to its mission and BVM Core Values, even as we

been raised, including a transformational $1 million multi-year

seek innovative partnerships and alliances to secure our future.

commitment from the Edward J. and Catherine Gallagher

These collaborations can take many forms, from the creation of

Family Foundation. In recognition of their generosity, the

new student pathways for degree programs to organizational

sundeck on the roof of Mary Benedict Hall was named in their

changes designed to optimize efficiency and streamline

honor this summer.

operational costs.

Gifts made to Clarke's fundraising efforts in the coming

Clarke was founded with a bold charge: to be “progressive with

year will directly advance the following goals:

the times.” As alumni and friends, your connection to Clarke

• • •

Modernize and enhance campus infrastructure.

is vital. We invite you to reaffirm your connection by referring

Preserve the rich legacy of our BVM founders.

prospective students, serving as a mentor, and supporting us

Position Clarke for a financially secure future.

financially with philanthropic gifts. Your involvement makes a meaningful difference in the lives of Clarke students.

Learn more about our Strategic Plan at clarke.edu/strategicplan, then scan the QR Code to make a gift to support our efforts!

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Free To Be Clarke The first goal of Clarke University’s strategic

“There are two current ways of expressing

plan is to “Live Our Mission and Values.”

the Core Value of Freedom at Clarke,”

This seems like a simple statement, but

Paulette said:

those familiar with the BVM Core Values

“Freedom: As a community seeking

appreciate the depth behind these words.

authenticity, we invite all to be open to God’s love and to be true to their best

Freedom, Education, Charity, and Justice

selves.” -Clarke Catalog

mean different things to different people— at Clarke these Core Values are grounded

“Freedom: The gift to become who we are

The team crafted the slogan, “Sorry

in the Gospel of Jesus and the mission

called to be at the deepest core of our

can’t, made the promise,” as a rejection

of the BVM Sisters. What do these Core

being.” -BVM Core Values Book

of violence, lying, stealing, and other

Values look like in the world today? And

negative behaviors. They had bracelets

just how do we as a university community

“This “Thiscore Core value Value reminds reminds us that us that as as

made as a physical reminder of their

live out our commitment to our students

we provide provideaaquality qualityeducation education toto our

commitment and shared their efforts

and to the good of all?

students, our students, we also wewant also want their time theirof time

with the greater campus community

study of study to be to abe time a time when when theythey can come can

during the October 8, 2024 Women’s

With a $50,000 grant through Wake Forest

to come a deeper to a deeper sense of sense self—to of self—to who they who are

Volleyball game. The event kicked off a

University and the Lilly Endowment, Inc.,

called they are to be called and to explore be and to theexplore values

year-long discussion for the team and

the Mission & Core Values Committee at

which the values they which want to they live want by,” to live by,”

campus as a whole.

Clarke launched the Character & Charism

-Paulette PAULE said.

T TE SKIBA , BVM

Project to explore these questions. The

“The goal is to create influence for students

grant included hiring Sister Joan Mueller

Freedom was also the cornerstone of the

and keep people accountable for their

as Clarke’s Chief Mission Officer.

Mackin-Mailander “Crucial Conversations”

behavior and actions,” said Harlee

lecture series and a discussion on social

Makue-Vasconcellos ’26. “Violence comes

“Clarke’s BVM Catholic identity is a

justice as lived by Kilian Pollard, BVM.

in different ways, and our motive is to end

beautifully unique feminine expression

Conversations continued daily in the

disrespectful acts on campus. By handing

of lived Catholic values and intellectual

classroom, such as in Associate Professor of

out the wristbands, it allows students to say

thought,” Joan said. “I feel privileged to

Religious Studies Susanna Cantu Gregory’s

‘NO’ to negative behavior and be able to

collaborate with the many talented and

Foundation of Spiritual Life and Spiritual

share the promise with others.”

dedicated faculty and staff members who

Growth courses, or when Professor of Art

have already been doing this work at Clarke.

Louise Kames’s ’77 Printmaking classes

MORE TO EXPLORE

I am also grateful to the many BVMs at

created an art exhibit of what Freedom

Next year, Clarke will explore the Core

Mt. Carmel Bluffs who have mentored me

means to them.

Value of Education. However, Joan and the

in this spirit, and I am thrilled to continue their journey.”

Mission & Core Values Committee are not These academic opportunities are important,

just planning a cookie cutter experience.

yet Joan and the committee agreed that they needed to offer formative educational

“Education will underly many of our major

experiences to apply the values outside of

events. We will offer book clubs on Catholic

the classroom, too. For Joan, this included a

Identity in the modern university, a

special visit with the Softball team.

workshop for young administrators to help them integrate the Core Values into their

NEXT STEPS

“I spoke to these young women about the

To focus their efforts, the Mission & Core

commitment Mary Frances Clarke and her

Menu full of resources available to everyone

Values Committee decided to focus

friends made to love God, self, and neighbor,

at Clarke,” Joan said. “Together, we can

campus-wide efforts on one Core Value

and to live good and just lives. I asked them

live out a modern expression of the Core

per year, beginning with Freedom. During

to imagine what this meant for these five

Values and appreciate how that defines the students we send out into the world.”

work and design a webpage with a Mission

the fall Focused Learn and Engage Day,

women to come together and declare these

Paulette Skiba, BVM offered her perspective

intentions in such a profound way,” Joan

on the BVM Core Value of Freedom and

said. “The team sat with the story of the

how it was embodied in the earliest BVM

Foundresses and decided to respond by

Photos provided by

Sisters and shaped BVM schools.

making a commitment to non-violence.”

Harlee Makue-Vasconcellos ’26

clarkeMAGAZINE | 4

181 Commencement st

Ceremony

The Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award, the most prestigious award given to a graduating senior, was then presented to Kainoa Gerard ’25 of Aiea, Hawaii. The award recognized Kainoa’s demonstrations of leadership, cooperation, generosity, kindness, and academic achievement throughout his time at Clarke.

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 2 p.m., Clarke University welcomed friends and family to the Robert and Ruth Kehl Center on

Additionally, alumna and Board of Trustees member,

campus to celebrate the class of 2025.

Dr. Deborah Ashton ’72 received an honorary doctorate for her achievements. Deborah, a licensed psychologist, was a

238 candidates for bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree

Postdoctoral Clinical Fellow, Faculty of Medicine at Harvard

crossed the stage in acknowledgement of their impressive

Medical School and has a Ph.D. and an Ed.D. in Clinical

academic pursuits, including research, internships, and more.

Psychology & Public Practice from Harvard University. She also founded Planet Perspective, an organization that specializes in

Students receiving special honors included this year’s

inclusive culture and leadership assessments.

valedictorian Hailey Huckstorf ’25, from Waterford, Wisconsin.

perspective in times of adversity.

The world needs good people, not just nice people. People who will speak out, stand up, and make a difference,

“If I have learned anything along the way, it is that this journey

Deborah said. “With Clarke’s Core Values of Freedom, Education,

was about so much more than grades and degrees. We may

Charity, and Justice, I am confident you have the experience to

not have noticed it day by day, but looking at the person who

do good in this world.”

In an address to the graduating class, Hailey shared lessons from friends and professors and how one can change their

first arrived, we can really see the transformation we have gone through. Because of the good times, but especially because of

Prior to commencement, Clarke’s graduation candidates and

the bad, we have become the people sitting here today,” Hailey

their guests took part in a Baccalaureate Mass at 10:30 a.m. in

said. “People who are stronger, wiser, more resilient…maybe a

Sacred Heart Chapel, followed by brunch in the Dining Hall.

little sleep deprived, but nonetheless, people who are changed for the better. This change is not in spite of the hardships, but

The class of 2025 would like to extend a special thank you to all

because of them.”

who celebrated with them and supported them on their journey.

To watch the recording of the ceremony, please visit clarke.edu/commencement

clarkeMAGAZINE | 5

sstatunddeonutts Richard “Ricci” Giambruno II BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, COMPUTER SCIENCE, AND PHILOSOPHY Parker, Colorado

Beatrice Atienza NURSING

Plainfield, Illinois

Youit! did

Ricci found Clarke through the Pride Football program, but some of the offensive lineman’s most impressive stats have happened off the field. His love of learning not only led him to triple major, but to assist his peers

as a peer mentor, join the Scholar's program and Future

Beatrice “Bea” spent nine years of her life in the

Young Professionals, and more. Through the many

Philippines before moving to the United States with

connections he developed at home and through the

her family in 2012. Having seen extreme poverty, she

Dubuque community, Ricci and his family developed

was inspired to work in healthcare and knew the

Figlio Tech. The company’s first app, Waysense, is set

Clarke Nursing program could get her there. She built

to launch this spring and tracks safe driving habits for

meaningful relationships with her professors and

teenagers and families. Following graduation, Ricci will

classmates, and across campus as a Resident Assistant,

commit all his time to growing the startup alongside

member of the Clarke Activities Board, and barista in

his parents and Board of Directors.

the Brew & Gold Coffee Corner. She was also a member of the 2023 NAIA National Championship Basketball team. However, Bea’s proudest moment came this spring, when she landed a job as a Registered Nurse with the Orthopedics unit for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, making her dream to become a nurse a reality.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 6

These are just some of the amazing students joining the ranks of Clarke alumni. Watch for more stories and good news at clarke.edu/newsroom.

McKenzie Nodolf

PSYCHOLOGY, PRE-PHYSICAL THERAPY Ripon, Wisconsin

Kainoa Gerard

SECONDARY EDUCATION AND MATHEMATICS Aeia, Hawaii

McKenize is someone who embraced Clarke’s Core Values even before she was a student here. Her faith

Kainoa may have chosen a school a long way from

has been an important part of her life and led her to

home, but Clarke quickly became a community

be heavily involved in Clarke Campus Ministry. She

he could count on. From his time with the Men’s

even volunteered to plan the university’s annual “Into

Volleyball team to serving as a Resident Assistant,

the Streets” events two years in a row, coordinating a

Prayer Partner with the BVM Sisters, and member of

day of service for dozens of her friends and classmates.

the Scholar’s program, he created connections across

McKenzie was also involved in the Scholar’s program,

campus. Thanks to his work as a video intern for Clarke

the Clarke Student Association and the Clarke

Marketing and his student teaching in the Dubuque

Organization of Student Physical Therapists, as well as

Community School District, his learning opportunities

playing soccer for the Clarke Pride. She will continue to

extended throughout the region. His experience

build her community connections after graduation as

earned him the Francis J. O’Connor Award for 2025

she pursues her Doctor of Physical Therapy

and will serve him well as he works in the Dubuque

degree with Clarke.

Community School District while completing his Master of Arts in Education degree with Clarke.

Naomi Noel MUSIC EDUCATION Peosta, Iowa Choosing to stay close to home for her degree, Naomi has been able to see firsthand how her education impacts her friends and neighbors. Her love of music, especially the piano, has been evident in her many performances for the Clarke community, from Homecoming to Musical Menus and more. She also shares her passion with those throughout Dubuque, working part-time as a teacher for Centrally Rooted, a music education non-profit run by fellow Clarke alumna Callie (Mescher) FitzGerald ’07. Naomi will continue to strengthen her local connections by serving as 5th & 6th grade band instructor and 7th & 8th grade Music teacher at Mazzuchelli Middle School after graduation.

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Musing TENTH on the

2025 marks 15 editions of the Tenth Muse literary

magazine at Clarke University. Through thousands of pages featuring the work of hundreds of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and professional writers, each edition captures moments in time, ranging from moving personal reflections of the

past and present, to visions of far-reaching futures.

Now, we’re celebrating the stories behind the stories as part of the anniversary celebration.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 8

MUSE

Humble Beginnings The Tenth Muse was—pardon the pun—born from musings in

“Katie knew there was a history of literary work at Clarke, and

Clarke’s Language and Literature Department. Ann Pelelo was

she was excited to be a part of that and to build from it.”

a relatively new faculty member and had worked on literary magazines at her previous institutions. Together with her

“My Creative Writing and Writers Roundtable students had

department chair, Katie Fischer ’73, the two hatched a plan to

been performing public readings each spring in the Mary

bring a new era of creative writing to Clarke.

Frances Solarium,” Katie said. “A literary magazine was the natural next step to bring student writing into a more public

“I hadn't been at Clarke very long,

venue and to encourage them to

but the department joyfully

pursue writing in the future.”

embraced the idea,” Ann said.

The Tenth Muse was still in the early stages when Katie retired in 2015. As part of her retirement celebration, her husband, Jerry Enzler, established an endowed fund at Clarke to ensure the Tenth Muse would continue as a venue for the written word well into the future.

With department and financial support in place, Anna Kelley stepped in as the advisor, kicking off a whirlwind year for a dedicated group of students. That first crew spent many late nights and weekends selecting and editing submissions, creating the layout, and bringing their vision to life.

According to Anna, the course challenged students to be analytical, collaborative, and empathetic while also meeting their deadlines.

“I will always feel so fortunate that I was given the opportunity to help bring this literary magazine into being because of the way in which the students threw themselves into it,” Anna said. “All a teacher wants is for their students to feel invested and excited about the subject they’re learning, and sometimes we go to great lengths to achieve this. But with the Tenth Muse, semester after semester, that enthusiasm was always there and, frankly, was both the most exhausting and rewarding part of my career as a teacher.”

“Anna built the groundwork to publish the first issue in spring 2015. It was outstanding from the get-go!” Katie added. “Anna was also responsible for bringing the Art Department production into the mix. I admit I love the first cover. In fact, it is framed and hangs on the wall of my home writer’s studio right over my desk.”

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AN Evolution In 2019-20, Associate Professor of Graphic Design Eric Wold and Associate Professor of English Steve Bellomy took over the reins of the Tenth Muse. And like most things in 2020, the status quo wouldn’t do.

“We came in at a time where COVID changed the game,” Eric said. “Suddenly this project that had always discussion-based was being

INFLUENCE Beyond THE PRINTED PAGE

done virtually. That brought

In recent years, other organizations on campus

challenges but it also let us

have embraced the Tenth Muse as a source of

rethink the medium. We

inspiration. In 2022, Volumes 1, 4 and 7 served as

been very collaborative and

offered some short blog

the source work for the Clarke theatre production,

style pieces called the COVID Chronicles, and Volumes 10 and 11

Tenth Muse: Reconstructed. Under the collaboration

are more condensed than others.”

of alumnus Colin Muenster ’08 and Joe Klinebriel, select nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and other works

“Volume 12 felt like a rebirth,” added Steve. “We were able to

were woven together to create a production

have a true launch party for the first time in years and that was

exploring reconstruction, identity, and progress.

a real celebration. It felt important to gather and reflect on this unique time in our culture and all the art that came from it.”

“Reconstructed celebrated and honored the Tenth Muse while also arranging it in interesting

While the medium itself changed, so did student involvement.

ways,” Colin said at the time of the production.

In the past, student submissions had focused heavily on

“With a traditional play, all the pieces are there.

creative writing. With the growth of the Graphic Design

This production was a little like building an

program at Clarke, more and more student artwork was being

airplane mid-air, but it was exciting and

created to complement written pieces from their peers, as well

interesting creative work.”

as submissions from professional writers across the country.

Illustrations, paintings, and photography—including images of

2024 saw another collaboration, this time with

ceramics and sculptures created in Clarke’s studios—offered

Clarke Cast & Crew and the Music department.

more opportunities for a juxtaposition of text and images.

The Tenth Museical offered a Homecoming showcase that featured student soloists from

Jessica “Jes” Stewart-Wagner ’25 has played an

the Music department, along with theatrical

instrumental role in this progression. They began with the

performances of two selections from Volume 14

magazine during their freshman year at Clarke as part of

of the Tenth Muse.

their Writing minor. Quickly, Jes saw the potential to express themselves beyond the written word.

As a new staff looks ahead to future publications and editions, one thing is certain: the Tenth Muse

“What started as a creative outlet transformed into a profound

will continue to tell the story of Clarke, for students,

passion for publication design,” Jes said. “The Tenth Muse offers

by students.

a unique opportunity to blend my love for design with creating a platform for fellow artists. There's something incredibly fulfilling about helping others share their creative voice while pushing the boundaries of my own artistic capabilities.”

Jes and the Tenth Muse staff hosted the launch party for Volume 15 on April 24, 2025, in the Mary Frances Hall Solarium, just as generations of Clarke students have before them.

Students and community members read selections, including some virtual presenters from around the country.

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“What started as a creative outlet transformed into a profound passion for publication design.”

- J E S S T E W A R T- W A G N E R ’ 2 5 clarkeMAGAZINE | 11

THE ARTS ARE FOR ALL Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, Clarke University hosted many entertaining and informative events under the banner of the Edward J. and Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke Series.

While we’ve spotlighted just a few here, we encourage you to bookmark clarke.edu/artsatclarke for an ever-growing list of opportunities!

clarkeMAGAZINE | 12

STUDIO ART Student art made an impact year-round with impressive displays in the Quigley Gallery, ranging from printmaking and painting to pottery, graphic design, and video elements. The department also welcomed non-majors to explore their creative side with the Pottery + Plants nights hosted by the Ceramics

MUSIC

and Biology Clubs. Studio art was even celebrated beyond Clarke’s walls when

THE ATRE

With showcases at Clarke and in the

Professor of Art Louise Kames ’77 was a

Clarke’s Cast & Crew club offered two

community throughout the year, it’s

featured exhibit at The Figge Art Museum

wonderful productions this year. First,

hard to choose only a few highlights for

in Davenport, Iowa this spring.

as part of our Homecoming 2024

music. In the fall, majors demonstrated

celebration, Cast & Crew students

their skills with vocal and instrumental

collaborated with members of the

performances in a special Studio

Music program and Tenth Muse

Showcase. Then, on March 28, Musical

literary magazine to produce The Tenth

Menus delivered stellar performances

Museical. In the spring, the comedic

to a sold-out crowd. Attendees enjoyed

one-act Frankenstein Slept Here offered a

a delicious meal at the Hotel Julien

frightfully good time to all in attendance.

while students, faculty, staff, and alumni honored some of music’s greatest divas.

CLARKE FEST BRINGS IT ALL TOGETHER April 26 marked our 5th annual Clarke Fest, hosted by the Edward J. and Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke Committee. The block party offered inflatables, games, and food for the Clarke community and those throughout Dubuque. As always, the heart of the event is celebrating Clarke artists through live performances, art sales, and more.

PLAN THE

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHT DAYS • Saturday, October 25, 2025

VISIT

• Friday, November 14, 2025

PERFECT Do you know someone considering college?

Encourage them to take part in one of our Clarke Visit Events!

Health & Social Sciences

Business, Communication, and Fine Arts

CLARKE PREVIEW DAY AT CLARKE FEST • Saturday, April 25, 2026 More events are being planned throughout the year, and you can always Build Your Own Visit with a personalized schedule.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE.

A tale OF

FRIENDSHIP One winter day in the recent past, while waiting for a prescription

That was just the beginning. A few weeks later, Sue was at the

to be filled at the drugstore, Sue Dolter ’73, ’87, MAE saw a bear—

same drugstore picking up another prescription. She passed

at least, what she was pretty sure was a bear.

the shelf where she had found the coconut bear. A twin had taken its place!

“He was this sweet fellow with little ears, a big, round tummy, and a brown blob of a nose. He didn’t have a mouth, and his fur stuck

“It was a sign,” Sue said. “I pay attention to signs. So, I bought

out all over like coconut shavings,” Sue recalled. “I thought he’d

him, too. I christened him ‘Wuzzy,’ sat him on my living room

make a perfect Valentine’s Day gift for my granddaughter, so I

sofa, and my imagination took off.” The coconut bear became

purchased him and sent him off to Nebraska.”

the inspiration for a children’s book Sue tentatively titled Wuzzy.

The story sat in her “Creative” file for a few weeks as she revisited and improved the draft.

About two months after she “adopted” Wuzzy, Sue was shopping at one of Dubuque’s décor stores when she spotted a baby bunny on a shelf. The bunny was very small, and its left paw was raised, as if in perpetual greeting. Of course, Sue bought her. The baby bunny joined Wuzzy on the sofa, and Wuzzy became Wuzzy and Doe. (By the way, female rabbits are called does.

Just ask someone who raises rabbits.)

clarkeMAGAZINE | 14

BIG THEMES FOR LITTLE READERS In three parts, Wuzzy and Doe tells the story of two stuffed animals

"Sister Joan was a magnificent teacher, and everything I know

who fear they’ll never fit in. Wuzzy, with his coconut-shaving fur,

about reading theory and reading instruction and how to

doesn’t look like other bears. What troubles him most is having no

encourage the development of children’s literacy skills I credit to

mouth, which means he cannot smile like the other animals on the

her influence,” Sue said. “When I wrote Wuzzy and Doe,

shelf where he lives. And while Doe is a cute baby rabbit, she thinks

I imagined her nodding in approval.”

she is too small to be chosen by a customer and so will never leave the store where she lives with other bunnies who are bigger (and therefore better). Ultimately, and with the help of a stranger who turns out to be a friend, Wuzzy and Doe find each other.

“I think fear of not belonging or not being what others think we should be is something we all face, especially children who are learning to navigate this big world,” Sue said.

“Different readers find different messages in Wuzzy and Doe, but for me, one of the most powerful is the theme of kinship.

Being cared for by others and giving care to others are deeply rooted needs we humans experience.”

Sue also gives credit to the BVM sisters who taught her in her undergraduate years and, later, those who were her colleagues when she joined the Clarke staff as Director of the Writing Center and adjunct faculty member, positions she held until her

For Sue, reading the written word has long played a powerful role

retirement from fulltime work in 2017. Today, Sue provides writing

in opening herself—and the many students she taught during

assistance to students in Clarke’s graduate programs. Wuzzy and

her 44 years as an educator—to messages of hope, resilience,

Doe is her first endeavor in the field of “kiddie lit.” All in all, it seems

generosity, and goodness. She attributes much of her knowledge

only natural that, even in retirement, she continues to promote the

about nurturing literacy in young children and those of school age

BVM Core Values, this time in a story intended to appeal to both

to former Clarke professor Sister Joan Lickteig, PBVM ’67.

children and adults.

Photo updated for online edition in July 2025.

BRINGING WUZZY AND DOE to Life Over the course of a little more than two years, Sue shaped

While Faith created the illustrations, Sue let friends and

Wuzzy and Doe, revising and fine-tuning the text. Along the

acquaintances know that her dream of publishing a children’s

way, she called on many guest readers and friends to offer

book was coming true. One of those friends was Clarke

responses to the story. However, the key to moving Wuzzy

alumna Tammi Noonan ’15, DNP, who works in the Oncology

and Doe from text to full-fledged book was finding someone

Department at Medical Associates in Dubuque. Sue is a breast

who could capture the charm of the story in illustrations.

cancer survivor, and Tammi is one of her providers. They first

Sue did not know any professional illustrators personally,

met when, as she completed her graduate program, Tammi

and she was reluctant to contact a publishing agency for

brought her scholarly project to the Writing Center for Sue

leads. Then, in December 2023, inspiration struck. She did

to review. In appreciation for Tammi’s care during her post-

know an illustrator! She contacted her former student and

surgery health journey, Sue presented her with a Bluebird

Writing Center tutor, Faith (Britt) Walker ’15. Shortly after

of Happiness, a beautiful glass figurine produced by Terra

graduating from Clarke, Faith opened her own freelance

Studios in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

design business, Design by Faith. When Sue reached out with a proposal for illustrating a children’s book, Faith was

“I was telling Tammi about Wuzzy and Doe at one of our visits,

delighted to listen to Sue’s ideas and bring her vision to life.

and she said I simply had to somehow include the Bluebird in the story,” Sue said. “I called Terra Studios for permission

“When Sue contacted me to illustrate Wuzzy and Doe, I was

to use the image, and they were thrilled.” This year, Terra

thrilled at the opportunity,” Faith said. “As a graphic designer,

celebrates its 50th anniversary, and they will commemorate

I am enthralled with illustration. I enjoy working with a

the Bluebird with special displays and programs.

variety of media to create my artwork, and I’m always looking

They requested copies of the book for their gift shop.

to explore new methods while further refining my skills.

when they read this story.”

“It felt like a true convergence of people trying to spread a little more love and joy in the world,” Sue said.

“To me, the story of Wuzzy and Doe is one of self-acceptance

A likeness of the Bluebird appears at turning points

and love of neighbor, reflecting Genesis 1:26: “God created

throughout Wuzzy and Doe as happiness alights in the

mankind in his image,’” Faith added. “Through Wuzzy and

characters’ lives.

Additionally, I run Little Blessings Daycare and it has been so special to see my daughters and daycare children light up

Doe’s story, we are taught to recognize and embrace the God-given traits in all of Creation. When we hold the Catholic belief that we were all created equally and with so much love by God the Father, it is hard not to treat everyone with dignity and respect, despite the “flaws” they may see in themselves.”

As Sue shared her vision for Wuzzy and Doe, Faith initially wanted to watercolor the illustrations before deciding digital illustration would be the best way to achieve the desired aesthetic. She created character illustrations in Adobe Fresco and imported them into InDesign to create collage-style backgrounds and set the typography.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 16

A STORY for All Altogether, it took Faith nearly a year— working on the project only at night, after busy daycare and family-first hours—to illustrate Wuzzy and Doe. When she and Sue were satisfied with the finished product, they partnered with Julin Printing in Monticello, Iowa, to print the books just in time for Christmas 2024.

“I have printed almost all of my design work with Julin since starting Design by Faith, and the quality is always outstanding,” Faith said. “As always, I love holding my physical artwork for the first time, but this book is my favorite work to date. Seeing my illustrations on hand-selected paper

“It brought tears to my eyes to hold and feel this

was simply an amazing experience that I

book,” Sue said. “I can already envision a parent or

will always cherish!”

caregiver sitting down and engaging with a child and the book. The act of turning pages, asking questions, and really experiencing a story is an exceptional act of love.”

Sue believes so strongly in the power of shared stories that she is giving copies of Wuzzy and Doe away at no cost.

“This story is meant for everyone, and I want it to be available to anyone,” Sue said.

“There is such joy in being able to freely give a part of yourself through a beautiful story, and I hope Wuzzy and Doe brings others joy, too.”

Tammi and Faith were among some of the first to receive copies, as well as Sue’s son Stephen Dolter, MD. A pediatric hospitalist and CMIO at Children’s Nebraska, Stephen requested 100 copies to distribute to young patients and their families. Also, Sue is reaching out to her contacts at Dubuque health care facilities and local service organizations such as the Presentation Lantern Center and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque for their help in making sure Wuzzy and Doe reaches audiences in need of positive messages.

Clarke was also pleased to host a special live reading on Thursday, April 10, 2025 for alumni, their families, and community members. Sue and Faith were in attendance and enjoyed an evening of kinship—along with lemonade and cookies of course!

“Wuzzy and Doe is ultimately about self-discovery, rebirth, interdependence, and kinship— sophisticated themes that are conveyed in the guise of a children's story,” Sue said.

“These themes are also present in Clarke's mission and vision statements, expressed in different words. In a sense, then, Wuzzy and Doe is Clarke's mission come to life and four Clarkies’ shared contribution to the common good.”

clarkeMAGAZINE | 17

TO TH

From Clarke

THE BASEBALL COACHING JOURNE Y OF LUIS R AMON RE YES By: Brett Tudela, Sports Information Director

Before his move to the pros, Luis enjoyed stops at Murray State University, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, and

The Clarke University baseball program has a storied history

Texas A&M International. He joined the Twins organization in

with a long list of accolades. From its first season in 1991 all the

2022, first working with their Florida Complex League affiliate

way through the 2020s, numerous alumni have taken their

before joining the Fort Myers staff in 2023. Through it all, he’s

talents to the coaching ranks.

stayed in contact with his Clarke connections, including former teammate and current Head Coach of Clarke Pride Baseball,

A standout among them is Luis Ramon Reyes ’14, whose

Brian McCabe ’13. “Luis always thought at a really high level,”

talents took him to the professional league. He is currently an

McCabe said.

assistant coach for the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, a Single-A Affiliate in the Minor League system for the Minnesota Twins.

“It was clear he had a bright future

Luis spent two seasons as part of the Clarke baseball team

in whatever he wanted to do—

in 2012 and 2013. He finished his career with a .289 batting average, 81 hits in 280 at bats, and showed a keen ability to not swing and miss, only striking out 31 times compared to 38 walks drawn in his career. He took this skill with him to the coaching ranks, but that doesn’t limit him to just teaching “his

in the baseball world or with his Chemistry degree. Seeing a Clarke

style” of hitting.

grad who went on to be successful

“There’s not a book on how to hit,” Luis said. “Every hitter is

shows our guys now that their

different, and every hitter has a swing that is their DNA. As a coach, I have to be able to apply the best process that I can put on the table for that specific hitter to keep developing his strength and work on putting aside his weakness.”

clarkeMAGAZINE | 18

time at Clarke can lead to whatever they want to be.”

HE PROS An important part of the journey for Luis is where he comes from, specifically his home country of Venezuela. Hailing from Puerto La Cruz, Luis cites the baseball culture in Venezuela for molding his style of play, which has transitioned into his style of coaching.

“I’m very proud to be Venezuelan,” Luis said. “Growing up there, I learned the game of baseball at three- or four-years-old. It’s been shaping me and giving me all of the wisdom and knowledge to be able to be where I am right now. I’m a little biased but I think we have had the best players from Latin America come from Venezuela.”

A proud baseball country, Venezuela has produced legends in recent Major League Baseball history, including All-Star and batting champion Luis Arráez, whom the Clarke alumnus worked with when Arráez was in the Twins system. Arráez is one of just three players in MLB history to hold the highest batting average of any player in a season in both the America League and National League.

Still early in his professional coaching journey, Luis sees a variety of possibilities in his future. Ultimately, his love of hitting and teaching hitters how to be successful will carve the path forward.

“As of now, I love hitting,” Luis said. “I like to help the hitters and see them develop, especially in the game today when it’s so difficult to hit. Hopefully I can make it to the big leagues as a hitting coach and stay there as long as possible.”

clarkeMAGAZINE | 19

Beyond Soccer:

C L A R K E C OAC H M I K E PAY E ’ S

MISSION TO SUPPORT LIBERIA When recruiting for Clarke Men’s Soccer, Head Coach Mike Paye connects with players from around the world. For the 2024-2025 season alone, the

Mike and one of his teammates take a break from unloading the 40-foot shipping crate packed with donations.

varsity and second-team rosters list student-athletes from 16 different countries, and he has been instrumental in growing the overall international student population at Clarke.

As each of his student-athletes seeks to make Clarke his home away from home, Mike also encourages them to show pride in where they come from.

Mike demonstrates this in his own efforts to support communities in his home country of Liberia.

Civil war forced Mike to leave the country as a child. He found success in the United States playing soccer for Tyler Junior College and Creighton University.

Following his college graduation, he established himself as the soccer coach for Clarke University, as well as the nearby Peoria City USL2 team. With his career on the rise, Mike felt called to return to where his story began.

“After my first year coaching at Clarke, I had the opportunity to go back to

“I knew God brought me back here for a purpose, and it has driven me ever since.”

Liberia. It was life-changing,” Mike said. “I knew the poverty was extreme, but to see five-year-old children begging on the highways for food was

Children celebrate the arrival

heartbreaking. I knew God brought me back here for a purpose, and it

of their “Kids Against Hunger”

has driven me ever since.”

packets, one of Mike’s newest partners in his mission.

Over the last six years, Mike has sent boxes of food, clothing, and other resources to Liberia whenever he could. These included items he collected personally and donations from his colleagues on the Clarke Athletics staff and beyond.

Initially, Mike was hand-delivering items to small villages with the help of his wife, who lives in Liberia with their two sons. Eventually, he was able to establish connections with a school in Grand Bassa County and a church in Monrovia, Liberia’s capital city, to see the donations go even further.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 20

For the next six weeks, Mike and his connections in Liberia distributed the items to men, women, and children across the country. For Mike, one of the most memorable experiences was visiting a remote village school three hours beyond the capital.

“We drove the car as far into the brush as we could. Then, four of us had to pile everything we could onto a motorbike to reach the village,” Mike said. “It was a lighthearted moment, but it really made you think about the children who are walking six miles or more to reach the school in such rugged terrain.”

Expanding the Reach For 2025, Mike ramped up his efforts with a fundraising drive under the banner of the Amos Foundation, which is named in honor of Mike’s father, who was killed in Liberia’s civil war. With the support of the organization Kids Against Hunger, Clarke and Peoria City fans, and private donors throughout the Midwest, the Amos Foundation collected nearly $100,000 worth of goods including clothing, food, sports equipment, and religious items such as Bibles.

In turn, Mike used a combination of his own funds and donations from others to transport a 40-foot shipping container of goods to Liberia in early January.

He then flew to Liberia to oversee the project himself.

Mike (left) is hands-on for every delivery, allowing him to build trust with the villages and keep the partnership growing.

When they arrived, Mike and his team were swarmed by dozens of children. They were ecstatic to receive clothes, shoes, and food.

That joy only grew with several days of soccer games and time spent with the community.

“That’s the stuff that keeps you going,” Mike said. “When you see these children sleeping on mud floors or benches, it can make you break down. But they find a use for everything, and approach everything with so much gratitude. I have really found my purpose in this work.”

clarkeMAGAZINE | 21

A Continuing Commitment to the Greater Good Mike returned to the United States in February with plans already brewing for his next trip. The Clarke community was ready

“Students who are moving may not want to take a rug or a lamp or odds and ends home with them. Instead of throwing them

and waiting to help.

out, I can take them and get them to people who really need them,” Mike said.

“I came back to find my office already

I just keep

filled with donations for my next trip in September 2025,” Mike said. “I have been blessed to have so many join me in this

As he continues to pursue his mission, Mike is researching how to take the Amos Foundation

saying ‘yes’ and

mission. I think because I have been so hands-on—gathering the materials,

from an LLC to a 501(c)3. This would allow him to pursue other grant and non-profit

God continues

talking to everyone face to face, and being there for every delivery—it helps people

opportunities. In the meantime, he continues to build and foster the personal connections

to provide.

that have made his work possible.

trust me and recognize this is doing good in the places that need it most.”

“I take donations year-round, and I’ve met so many people who want to help,” Mike said. “Some of the items

Mike has also established new connections across

we need most are body care items, clothing, and shoes, but we

campus to expand his efforts, such as working with

will take all that is offered. I just keep saying ‘yes’ and God continues

Residence Life to collect donations during move-out.

to provide. I have faith that we can bring more people in and do good in this world.”

Mike (right) delivers food, clothing, Are you interested in supporting Mike’s efforts in Liberia?

Contact him at mike.paye@clarke.edu to learn how you can get involved!

clarkeMAGAZINE | 22

and other goods to teachers and students at a village school.

Greetings, As President of your Clarke Alumni

This digital publication is a quick, feel-good read that

Association Board, I’m thrilled to share

connects us all—no ads, no distractions, just good news from

some of the incredible highlights

your alma mater!

and celebrations that have shaped our Clarke community over the past

Speaking of keeping us informed, if you have moved recently

year. From personal milestones to

or have updated contact information, please share it with

professional achievements, these

the Alumni Relations Office at clarke.edu/alumni/update-

stories are just a glimpse into the inspiring work our 10,000+ alumni are doing

contact. We want to make sure we can keep you up to date on all things Clarke.

to make a difference around the globe. You can explore even more uplifting updates anytime at

Wishing you joy and continued success in 2025 and beyond!

clarke.edu/classnotes.

Go Pride!

It’s truly heartwarming to see classmates reaching new career heights, embracing retirement adventures, and celebrating life’s big moments, like weddings and new arrivals, who just might be Clarke’s Class of 2047! These updates remind us that wherever life takes us, the Clarke spirit is alive and well.

Andy Schroeder ’02, ’10M As you enjoy reading these stories, I encourage you to share your

Clarke University Alumni Association Board President

own. Whether it’s a promotion, a move, or a new passion project, we’d love to hear about it. The BVM sisters taught us humility, but this is your moment to shine—go ahead and brag a little!

And while you're at it, invite your Clarke friends to do the same.

Celebrate

YO U R S PEC I A L M O M EN T S

View highlights from the year in our Class Notes. From marriages and births to promotions and personal growth, we're here to share your joy!

DATES! P U R U O Y E S HAR e.edu clarke.edu/classnotes

ns@clark alumnirelatio note /submitclass u d .e e rk la c t or online a nd pictures!)

(Don’t forget

to se

ANOTHER CHAPTER IN THE

Clarke Story Faculty Retirements

As several members of our Clarke community retire, please join us in celebrating them with well wishes from their colleagues and friends.

KRIS TIERNEN

In honor of their years of distinguished service, the following

Professor of Nursing

faculty members have been granted faculty emerita/us status:

Kris brings a lot of creativity and enthusiasm to the classroom and students. Each year she plans a Halloween Pediatric bootcamp where she invites faculty, staff, and students to bring their kids to class fully dressed in Halloween attire. Clarke Nursing students are tasked with developing age-appropriate activities such as making play dough, coloring, putting puzzles together, etc. The students and the kiddos were fully

TIM BOFFELI

engaged in the activities and the morning went well.

Kris is genuine with her interactions, and we have enjoyed working together over the years, she will be missed.

Associate Professor of Psychology Tim Boffeli is a teacher, counselor, advisor, guide, leader,

-Lisa Rettenmeier, Professor and Chair of Nursing

and mentor all rolled into one. For his students, he goes

(and jump from them), bring fake heads, old toys that

PAULA SCHMIDT

demonstrate development, multitudes of client stories,

Professor of Education

and much more in an effort to make the material real and

Paula is one of my favorite

connected. He also endeavors to advise students and help

humans and I would not be

them grow as academics and future professionals. Doing

where I am today without

all of this leaves lasting impressions on students, he often

her. There are certain people

has meetings and visits with former students throughout

that you come across along

the year!

the way that you can identify

above and beyond to ensure that they can obtain and understand the material. This at times includes some... unique... methods! He has been known to stand on tables

as changing the trajectory of As a colleague he does many of these same things, sans

your path in life as a result. We met when I took a job as an aide

standing on tables to demonstrate for us! He ensures that

in her classroom more than 20 years ago. I was not interested in

his department has all of the tools they need to succeed,

a career in education, but she always encouraged me to become

encourages us to try new things, provides feedback

a teacher, every time I saw her over the years. Eventually I did

whenever it is requested, and advocates for us all at times.

become a special education educator with her to thank. Years

Though this does not stop at just his department faculty,

later we would be teaching partners at Clarke, and it was like we

as he often helps those outside of his department.

didn't miss a beat. She approaches each day and interaction from the heart and with humor, always seeking to bring joy. Whether

-Brenna Burgart ’17, Assistant Professor of Psychology

she was your teacher, colleague, or friend, her impact cannot be denied. The world truly is a better place for many because of her.

-Lee Johnson, Assistant Professor of Education

clarkeMAGAZINE | 24

Staff Retirements

BILL BIEBUYCK

KATE ZANGER

Vice President Emeritus for

Vice President for

Institutional Advancement

Student Life

For the past 15 years,

With a deep sense of

Bill has been a cornerstone of

gratitude and admiration,

leadership within the Clarke

I congratulate Kate on her

community. His efforts have

retirement. Her decades of

not only generated critical

dedicated service to Clarke

support for our students,

have been nothing short of

but also fostered lasting

extraordinary. She has led

relationships with alumni and friends, all in service of

with compassion at the heart of everything she does and has

advancing Clarke’s mission. We are grateful for the

left an indelible mark on all of us. The countless lives touched,

philanthropic legacy he has built and the many lives he has

guidance shared, and difference made over the years will

touched through his work.

continue to echo in the halls of Clarke for years to come.

-Courtney Leonard, Vice President

-Callie Clark, Vice President for Enrollment and Student Affairs

for Institutional Advancement

ZENY RENIER

KENT RENIER

Evening Circulation

Security Officer

Desk Supervisor

Kent has significantly

Zeny has worked the evening

influenced Clarke throughout

shift in the library for the

the years. He has contributed

past six years as our part-

to training new staff, provided

time evening supervisor.

valuable suggestions for the

Zeny helps the library run

department, and filled in

smoothly in the evening after

during shifts when necessary.

regular staff have gone home for the day. Zeny came from the

Kent builds relationships with

business world and has been instrumental in updating some of

everyone on campus and participates in many events.

our workflow processes, which has been helpful. However, what

Although he is retiring, he will continue to work part-time,

has always impressed me most about Zeny, is her ability to relate

so you may still see him around from time to time!

to our students, especially our international students. She is a constant support to them, and encourages, and mentors them.

-Emily Dalen, Facilities Manager

It is not out of her wheelhouse to bring them home cooked meals on occasion. The library will not be the same without Zeny. We have appreciated all of her efforts these past several years and wish her the best as she starts a new chapter.

-Sue Liebold, Library Director and University Archivist

clarkeMAGAZINE | 25

25 Years

of Clarke Education’s Professional Development School

When Michele Vosberg moved to the Dubuque area in 1996, she was coming off several years as a middle school teacher.

New to the area, she thought she’d try a different approach to education through a part-time role at what was then Clarke College. At the time, she couldn’t have known how that instructor role would change her life.

Michele taught the Reading Methods course, and her first year was an eye-opener. Not only was she adjusting to teaching at the college level, but she was also seeing Preschool-12 education in a new light. Working with her students, she realized there was a disconnect between the classroom and the clinical teaching experience happening in classrooms throughout the community.

“When I started attending teaching clinical sites, I found a mixed bag,” Michele said. “At best, my students got to work with small groups or read aloud to the children. At worst, they spent their clinical hours in a conference room grading stacks of spelling books or cutting out bulletin board material. There was very little teaching.”

The key was expanding the clinical experience.

We needed to work with real classrooms, real teachers and real students, and it needed to start earlier in their college career.

This lit a fire in Michele to find a better way—one that she worked to spread across her department. She researched and attended conferences nationwide, but nothing seemed to fit.

“Sister Marge Clark knew that the BVMs were getting some new

At 32,000 feet on a flight home from a conference, the idea for

dining tables, and she talked them into giving us some of the old

the Professional Development School (PDS) came to her.

tables and chairs. She also knew a student with a truck. With my two young daughters in tow, we dragged those tables and chairs into our new classroom. I begged Andy Bellings at Clarke to give us a couple of old computers. I think he thought I was crazy at first, but he showed up with two old computers and hooked them into the internet in our classroom.”

That fall, the first Clarke PDS cohort launched with 21 students and the results were undeniable. With two Clarke faculty members onsite

“The key was expanding the clinical experience. We needed to

to observe and coach, students better understood what worked and

work with real classrooms, real teachers and real students, and

what did not in a classroom and were able to adapt more quickly

it needed to start earlier in their college career,” she said.

when things didn’t go as planned.

With support from her department chair, Michele found a

“Students weren’t just reading a textbook and regurgitating the

partner in St. Anthony’s Catholic School to test this novel

information on a test. They were living and breathing what they were

approach. However, it was far from easy.

learning. If they read something, they immediately connected it to their experiences in schools,” Michele said.

“They gave us a classroom and agreed that I could have some of their in-service time to explain the program to the teachers, but

In short, more time in the classroom meant more prepared teachers—

we had no money,” Michele said.

and the Education Faculty weren’t done yet.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 26

A LABOR OF Love

TAKING THINGS K-12

As more schools signed on for the elementary Professional

With special education now in place, the last piece of the

Development School, Professor Emerita Paula Schmidt saw the

puzzle was programming at the high school level. This proved

opportunity to develop a special education block as well.

more difficult because while elementary training covered general education, secondary introduced subject areas,

“When I started in 2003, I would spend my mornings in the

creating a need for more specific matches for the Clarke

schools supervising these great experiences, and then my special

student teachers. Students were able to participate in a middle

education classes only had the observation hours not connected

school PDS with Mazzuchelli Catholic Middle School, but the

to PDS,” Paula said. “We only had a handful of students adding

Education Department had yet to find a high school partner.

the special education endorsement at that time. I was confident if

It was a challenge that Assistant Professor of Education Cathy

we could marry the classroom theory with PDS practice, we could

Stierman was determined to take on.

grow that.”

“We’ve been able to Paula soon found a partner in Table Mound Elementary and Cyndie

offer PDS blocks at

Nelson, a seasoned teacher with their special education program.

both Hempstead and

Together, they built the structure for the program, with Paula even

Senior High School

offering to substitute teach so teachers from Table Mound could

now and you can see

visit other schools and see the PDS program in action. Finally, Paula

the impact it makes

and her team were able to present to the Table Mound faculty in

for those developing

April 2007, a moment Paula will never forget.

teachers,” Cathy said.

“I’ve also had the privilege of having alumni who went through the

“I went into labor that morning, but I had put my heart and soul

PDS program serve as the coordinating teachers. Having them

into this. I had to see it through,” Paula said. “I presented the

share their insights is valuable for teacher and student alike.”

Special Education PDS in the morning and delivered my son that afternoon.”

While generations of students can attest to its impact, the effectiveness of PDS is more than anecdotal. Cathy dedicated her

The program launched that fall and has been an instrumental part

dissertation work to exploring teacher preparation methods, with

of the student experience at Table Mound ever since. And as Paula

a focus on Professional Development Schools in particular. Using

predicted, it’s had a major impact on special education at Clarke.

Clarke as a case study, she surveyed graduates five years out and found that 98 percent were still in education. Meanwhile, the

“Special Education is always changing, so to be able to put

national average hovers closer to 20 percent.

theory and policies into practice with guidance from your professors makes a huge difference,” Paula said.

“Students who experience a PDS and classroom involvement beyond student teaching not only stay in the profession longer, but

Students at other colleges have a minimum of 80 observation hours throughout their four years. Our students hit that in a semester.

A GROWING

experience higher rates of satisfaction,” Cathy said. “With our own PDS, we are continually evaluating the program to ensure students get every opportunity possible.”

Legacy

“I am proud of the work I’ve done and of the work that everyone

Michele took her experience to the next level by founding the

away from PDS work knowing that if this was my legacy, it

at Clarke has done to promote better learning for not only our pre-service teachers, but the students and teachers in our private and public-school partnerships,” Michele said. “I walked

National Association of Professional Development Schools.

was in good hands at Clarke, in our partner schools and in the

While her work now extends across the country, she still holds

thousands of schools and educators that are now a part of

the Clarke experience as a model of what can be done.

school and university partnerships.”

clarkeMAGAZINE | 27

BUILDING THE FAMILY

Legacy

MARGARET ANN “PEGGY” (O’CONNELL) CURRAN ’79 When I was deciding which college to attend, I chose Clarke primarily because I lived in Dubuque and my mother, Charleen Reilly O’Connell ’50, attended there. I grew up knowing her teachers and classmates and saw what a lifelong connection Clarke made with her. . . I am still sad that the 1984 fire destroyed many of Clarke’s beautiful and venerable buildings.

Walking the carpeted hallway was always a serene and social experience.

Passing my mother’s

Thanks to the Oral History project and our partners

graduation portrait hanging in Eliza Kelly Hall was

at PCI, Clarke received hundreds of stories from

always a proud and loving moment. I am thankful

Clarke alumni in 2024. Of these, some of our

that the campus was restored beautifully,

favorites come from our Legacy families—the

the picture legacy survives, and the Clarke

parents, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles,

spirit thrives.

and others for whom Clarke has played a part in their story. We’ve shared snippets from some of our favorites here and look forward to highlighting

CAROL (ENZLER) DINAN ’61 I was born in Dubuque, Iowa, the second of 13 children.

more of these treasured tales in future outreach.

My family had a strong connection to Clarke— my oldest sister Jean started there, and eventually all eight of us girls attended. We were quite the Clarke family! My parents were initially hesitant to let Jean go so far away, but they came to see that Clarke was the best place for us to learn and grow. When Jean went, the rest of us followed—it was almost like we had to! The university even featured our family in their publications, highlighting our unique story. . .Even after graduating, I’ve stayed in touch with a few Clarke friends, especially around the holidays.

And my sister who lives nearby is able to visit the campus regularly. It’s wonderful to still feel that connection to the place that meant so much to my whole family.

Clarke will always hold a dear place in my heart.

The friendships, the traditions, the sense of belonging—it was an incredibly formative experience. I’m grateful my parents

*Interviews have been edited for print, however full versions will be presented in the Oral History Project books.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 28

chose Clarke, and that our family legacy there lives on.

CATHLEEN M. “CATHY” (FRAHER) BERGMANN ’82 I chose Clarke because it felt like a

that Pay it Forward

family affair. My mother’s cousin graduated from there in 1957 and through her, I learned about the school. I had other choices, but something about Clarke just felt right.

Plus, I wanted to break the trend of

Families that choose Clarke contribute to

Iowa people going to Arizona for

academics, athletics, the arts, and so much

college. I wanted to be the one Arizonan going to

more. We recognize the important role

Iowa. It was also an opportunity for me to explore my family

these connections play in our community

roots and connect with relatives I had never met before.

with unique scholarship opportunities like:

Growing up, I didn’t know much about my mom’s side of the family, so going to Clarke allowed me to learn more about my family history and form strong connections with my relatives. It was a powerful experience for me, and it shaped who I am today.

DANIEL MATTHEW “DANNY” ZANGER ’23

Students with a parent, grandparent, sibling, or spouse who is a Clarke

I have a long-running history with Clarke. My mother has been the

University student or graduate are eligible

Vice President for Student Life there for 29 years. From a young age,

to receive a Clarke University Legacy

she would bring me into the office as a newborn and I would do

Grant of $1,000 towards tuition. The grant

her work with her. . .My sister had also attended Clarke, graduating

is renewable over four years.

five years before me. So I was continuing a family legacy. At Clarke, I was involved in the music department as a composition student, participating in various recitals and performances. I was a member of the Clarke Jazz Ensemble and even performed a Lion’s Den session with my own jazz group, the DZ Combo, which featured a fellow Clarke alumnus on drums at the time. My time at Clarke really gave me the space, time, and environment to think about the future I wanted and develop into the career I could see myself in.

The Clarke Alumni Referral and

It provided me with the skillset, opportunity, and environment to

Engagement (CARE) Society Scholarship

become the best version of myself. Even now, I stay connected with

offers a $1,000 renewable scholarship to

some of my Clarke classmates. A few of them teach music lessons

full-time undergraduate students who

at the nonprofit organization I work for, Centrally Rooted, so I see

are referred to Clarke by an alumna/us

them regularly at team

or a current full-time Clarke student.

meetings and around the office. Clarke has truly

While these awards cannot be stacked

been a constant in my

with athletic letters of intent amounts,

life, from my mother’s

there are many scholarship and funding

long career there to

opportunities that can make your college

my own educational

experience even more rewarding.

journey. It has played a

Learn more about scholarships

pivotal role in shaping

offerings and how you can support

who I am today.

future students at clarke.edu/scholarships.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 29

In Remembrance As a member of the Clarke Community, you know that it is the people you meet and the connections you make that shape your experience in school and into the future. From June 2024 to May 2025, we lost several people that shaped our community in different yet important ways. Please join us in honoring their memories. We also extend a special thanks to Christine Olsem, ’83 BVM Associate, for sharing portions of her eulogies for the BVM Sisters represented.

Diana Malone, BVM Mundelein College where she

Eugena Sullivan, BVM

earned a degree in Chemistry. She

After building strong relationships

entered the BVM congregation and

with the BVMs as a Chemistry

professed first vows in 1959. Over

student at Clarke, Eugena entered

the next 68 years, her service to the

the BVM congregation and professed

BVM Sisters focused on education first at the high school

final vows on July 16, 1961.

Born in Chicago, Diana attended

and then the college level. In a stunning 47 years at Clarke, she served as professor, chairperson of the chemistry department,

Eugena served as a secondary science teacher and an

athletic director, and director of student activities.

elementary teacher before returning to Clarke to serve in the computer center and then as Registrar, often working

Upon retirement in 2015, she continued to volunteer in the

alongside her dear friend Marguerite Neumann, BVM. One of

community alongside her dear friend Mary Lou Caffrey, BVM. In

her most memorable moments from her 37 years at Clarke was

2022, they moved to Vista at Mt. Carmel Bluffs where they could

when a fire devastated campus two days before graduation. It

spend more time with their BVM Sisters.

was Eugena who retrieved the diploma covers from the charred building and had new diplomas printed for the graduates.

Sister Diana passed away at the age of 89 on Monday, May 5, 2025.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 30

Sister Eugena passed away at the age of 93 on April 13, 2025.

Sara McAlpin, BVM, ’56

Steve Kapelke After graduating from Milwaukee

Sara enrolled at what was then

Lutheran High School and serving

Clarke College in 1952, where

in the U.S. Army, Steve attended

she completed a bachelor’s

NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.

degree in English with a minor

He completed his Bachelor of

in history. After graduation, Sara

Fine Arts in Filmmaking and added

entered the BVM congregation,

master’s degrees from the University of

professing her first vows in 1959.

Milwaukee and the Iowa Writer’s Workshop.

In her 68 years as a BVM, Sister Sara ministered as a secondary

Steve had an illustrious career in education, including roles

teacher and as an elementary teacher before returning to

at Clarke as Interim Dean of Adult and Graduate Studies at

Clarke to teach American Literature and Writing in 1961. Over

Clarke from 2012-2014 and Vice President for Academic Affairs

the next 53 years, she enriched the Clarke experience in the

and Dean of Faculty from 2023-2024. In his more recent role,

classroom, earning the prestigious Meneve Dunham Award

he supported the development of an Academic Advising

for Excellence in Teaching, serving as the Mackin-Mailander

unit, First-Year Studies Department, and first-year

Lecturer, and retiring as Professor Emeritus in 2003. Even in

writing curriculum, along with other unique

retirement, she joyfully served Clarke as Archivist for another

student-learning opportunities.

11 years.

Steve passed away at the age of 77 on September 23, 2024.

Sister Sara passed away at the age of 90 on Saturday, October 19, 2024.

seek to honor another member of the Clarke community, we’re

William “Bill” Kochendorfer

here to help. Contact the Therese Mackin, BVM, ’50 Office of

For over 18 years, Bill proudly

Institutional Advancement at development@clarke.edu, call us

served as a security officer for Clarke,

at (563)588-6405 or toll free at (888)225-2753.

building many lasting friendships with

During her time at Clarke, Sr. Sara mentored many students, including Martha Middleton ’74. To honor Sara’s memory, Martha started an endowment fund for the Sr. Sara McAlpin Memorial Scholarship for Clarke English majors. If you’d like to join Martha in acknowledging Sr. Sara's dedication to Clarke or

students, faculty, and staff. In addition to his security role, he was highly skilled in martial arts and self-defense and was thrilled to share this with students at Clarke when they requested a self-defense class. In 2016, he was honored with the BVM Core Values Award from Clarke University. Prior to his career in security, Bill served as a rehabilitation specialist at the former Chiropractic Rehab Center situated in Asbury Square and was also employed in the physical therapy department at Vita Care.

Bill passed away at the age of 73 on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

clarkeMAGAZINE | 31

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SAV E the DATE OCTOBER 17-19, 2025

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