Clarke University Magazine - Fall 2018

clarke Fall 2018

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THE MAGAZINE OF CLARKE UNIVERSITY is published three times a year for alumni, parents, and friends of Clarke University.

INSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS Joanne M. Burrows, SC, Ph.D. President Bill Biebuyck Vice President for Institutional Advancement CONTRIBUTORS Courtney Leonard Executive Director of Development Jodi Hooks ’99 Associate Director of Alumni Relations Megan Stull Assistant to the President Gayle Langel ’08, ’17M Creative Director EDITOR Susan Cain Content Strategist DESIGNER Hannah Thorson ’17M Design & Web Manager

CONTACT INFORMATION Clarke University 1550 Clarke Drive Dubuque, IA 52001-3198 (563)588-6318 Fax: (563)588-6300 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 university-administered programs. Clarke University complies with all pertinent state and federal regulations concerning affirmative action, non-discrimination, and equal employment opportunity.

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FEATURES

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175 Years: Clarke University's Longstanding Educational Mission

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Francis J. O'Connor Memorial Award: Impact Through the Years

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A Journey Through Authentic Ireland and a Pilgrimage to Authentic Life

IN THIS MAGAZINE

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Just to Live is Holy: Women Religious and a Tradition of Art, Faith, and Justice

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Clarke by the Numbers A Clarke Treedition Arts at Clarke Fall Events Upcoming Alumni Events

Dear Alumni and Friends, This year, Clarke University will mark its 175th anniversary. We greet this landmark celebrating Clarke’s many contributions and accomplishments since beginning as a girls’ academy on the Iowa prairie in 1843. Throughout this celebratory year, the breadth of events and special projects connected to this important milestone will unite alumni, students, faculty, and staff from across campus and around the country.

This commemorative issue includes stories that reflect on the rich history of this great institution, details on the special anniversary initiatives and events scheduled throughout the academic year, and so much more. This is a wonderful issue and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed creating it.

We kicked off the celebratory festivities this summer with a trip to Mary Frances Clarke’s homeland of Ireland. Mary Frances knew God compelled her to meet the needs of the people and times around her in a different way, to bring a new kind of education for freedom to the poor of Dublin and later to the Irish immigrants in America. Our founders – Mary Frances Clarke, Margaret Mann, Eliza Kelly, Catherine Byrne, and Rose O’Toole – believed education was the way to freedom. It was a wonderfully reflective trip for everyone who joined us. Stories of our travels and beautiful photos are featured in this issue.

Over the decades, our esteemed institution has undergone significant change. Through it all, we have resolutely lived by Mary Frances Clarke’s admonition to be progressive with the times in what and how we teach. We continue to faithfully embrace the BVM core values of freedom, education, charity, and justice. We trace this history in articles on our mission’s evolution and student leaders through the decades.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

As we celebrate 175 years of outstanding achievement, we also look to the future.

Together as a caring learning community, we must invest energy, imagination, and courage to ensure that Clarke University continues to provide an education that is both fitting with the times and embracing of our founders’ spirits.

In addition to celebrating our 175th, this year will also be a year of transition for Clarke as I have announced my retirement in May of 2019. You will read more about this in future issues of the magazine.

Thank you for your continued support, and your love, for Clarke.

Clarke Lives!

Sincerely,

Joanne M. Burrows, SC, Ph.D. President

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CLARKE UNIVERSITY'S LONGSTANDING EDUCATIONAL MISSION

O

ctober 4, 2018, proudly marks Clarke

continue to embrace the core values of freedom, education,

University’s 175th anniversary. Clarke has

charity, and justice.”

seen much growth and expansion throughout its history, and the goal remains

the same: to prepare women and men for academic success, and to challenge and inspire them to be leaders for good in the world.

Clarke traces its roots back to nineteenth century Dublin, Ireland, with the birth of Mary Frances Clarke. In 1832, Mary Frances Clarke, and her companions, Catherine Byrne, Eliza Kelly, Margaret Mann, and Rose O’Toole opened a school on North Anne Street in Dublin to teach Catholics and other poor children in this most destitute part of the city. They believed providing an education to young girls was a way to quickly expand literacy among impoverished people. Those

School, a Catholic missionary priest from Philadelphia visited and was impressed by what he saw. He convinced Mary Frances Clarke and her friends to come to America.

Upon their arrival in New York Harbor in 1833, the five women faced the first of many challenges. As Eliza Kelly was exiting down the ship’s swinging ladder, her purse became unlatched and the contents including the group’s collective savings fell into the harbor. The group did eventually reach Philadelphia and soon discovered that the missionary who promised to meet them and help establish a school was nowhere to be found.

taught would become mothers who, in turn, would teach

Rev. Terence J. Donaghoe, a local pastor and a fellow Irish

their children to read and write.

countryman, heard of the plight of the “Dublin ladies” and

President Sister Joanne Burrows, SC, Ph.D. and a group of travelers recently visited Ireland to trace Clarke’s roots.

Burrows said, “I walked the streets of Dublin and visited

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The same year that the women started North Anne Street

agreed to rent a building for their first school in America. He strongly affirmed the women’s belief that education was the way to improve the lives of immigrants.

the area where Mary Frances Clarke and her companions

Father Donaghoe encouraged the five women to form

lived and worked. While I have reflected upon and

a pious society to strengthen their commitment and to

referenced Clarke’s core values often, I now realize the

attract others so that they might expand their work. On

interconnectedness of education and freedom for those

November 1, 1833, Mary Frances Clarke, Catherine Byrne,

women. For the poor and Catholics of Ireland at the time,

Eliza Kelly, Margaret Mann, and Rose O’Toole pronounced

education brought freedom for the learners. As we seek to

private vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. This action

provide an education today that is both fitting with the

brought into existence the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed

times and an embodiment of our founders’ spirit, we

Virgin Mary (BVMs).

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When I first stepped onto campus all those years ago, I remember thinking, this is a perfect fit. It feels like home.

It’s a special place and the atmosphere is filled with love, laughter, and learning.

CAMILLE JACQUES '52

Mathias Loras, Bishop of Dubuque at that time, was shepherding a diocese that covered most of the upper Midwest. He met the BVM Sisters while traveling to Baltimore and pleaded with them for help in his vast territory. They

"I was also so fortunate to be able to study in Vienna the

agreed to come to Dubuque in 1843.

second semester of my junior year. It was an amazing

The antecedent institution of Clarke University, St. Mary’s Female Academy, was established three years before Iowa became a state, in 1843. After occupying several locations in its early years, the school was re-named Mount St. Joseph

her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and spent her entire professional career at Mayo Clinic locations in Rochester, MN, and Scottsdale, AZ.

Academy and in 1881, it moved to Clarke’s present location. In

She added, “Certainly Clarke led to a fulfilling career for me;

1901, the academy became Mount St. Joseph College, a liberal

but I also remember that the Sisters were involved not only in

arts institution, and was chartered by the State of Iowa in

the community, but in other volunteer activities both locally

1910. It was first accredited by the North Central Association

and at a state and national level, for both academics and

of Colleges and Secondary Schools in 1918 and renamed

social issues. Over the years, this has become an important

Clarke College in 1928. It became Clarke University in 2010

part of my life, too.”

in an effort to accurately represent the institution’s robust undergraduate and graduate academic programs.

Academic excellence has remained a priority with program expansion to meet the needs of students and employers.

Graduate studies were added in 1964 and evening programs for non-traditional students began in 1968. In 1979, Clarke became a co-educational institution, admitting both women and men in full-time undergraduate programs.

Dr. Mary Burritt ’66 shared, “I was a Chemistry major and was so grateful that Clarke only awarded BA degrees at the time.

This allowed me to be exposed to music, art, and literature classes that I would have not taken had there been a BS degree. I feel I had a very well-rounded education.

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experience.” Upon graduating from Clarke, Burritt completed

Camille Jacques ’52 said, “When I first stepped onto campus

“Clarke taught me how caring a community of learners

all those years ago, I remember thinking, this is a perfect fit.

could be. And, the joy I take in teaching is fully recognized,

It feels like home. It’s a special place and the atmosphere is

nurtured, and rewarded here. Best of all, the BVM Sisters

filled with love, laughter, and learning. Clarke taught me to

have had a remarkable impact on my life. They challenged,

have an open mind and heart. I developed a love of learning

encouraged, and mentored me into the person I am today

which has enriched my life.” Jacques graduated with a BA in

as a BVM Associate.”

History and was one of the first alumni directors at Clarke.

An event forever etched into Clarke’s history is the fire

It is not uncommon for prospective students to visit Clarke

of 1984. The fire destroyed one-third of the campus, and

because of recommendations from family or friends.

seemingly undaunted, students hung a banner the next day

Prospective students choose to attend Clarke, however,

proclaiming “Clarke Lives!”

because of its academic excellence and close-knit, caring campus community.

This spirit sustained the campus community through a period of vigorous rebuilding. In October 1986, a dedication was held for a new library, music performance hall, chapel, bookstore, administrative offices, and central atrium, which now constitute the core of the campus.

Roger Fuhrman ’94 shared, “The things that come to my mind when I remember my time at Clarke are the caring faculty and staff, who always had your best interest in mind, and the many friendships I developed. I still am so close to many of my fellow classmates. Recently, when I was attending a work conference in San Diego, I bumped into a 1991 graduate and we both recognized each other even after 27 years. We shared old stories and memories.” At Clarke, Fuhrman studied Mass Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations and Advertising; he now serves as Executive Vice President at Siteimprove in Minneapolis, MN. Professor and Chair of Philosophy, Norm Freund, reflected on his experience as a member of the Clarke community:

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President Emerita Catherine Dunn, BVM, stands next to the location of the fire of 1984 with architectural plans for the renovation.

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Clarke was the fire of 1984. BVM gumption carried the day through the leadership of Sister Catherine Dunn, and we found out just how strong we were as a community. I will always be grateful for learning that,” recalled Freund.

President Emerita Catherine Dunn, BVM said, “During and after the fire, Mary Frances Clarke’s pioneer heritage continued to challenge us to new visions and to new futures.

Students emerged from those hallowed halls as faith-filled people who are citizens not only of this nation, but of the world community.”

Clarke University has worked diligently to honor the call of Mary Frances Clarke to be progressive with the times. As new programs evolve and the world of higher education changes, Clarke has continued to challenge and support its students in their intellectual and personal growth.

During the last 25 years, the campus has been expanded and enhanced. These improvements include new academic buildings and renovated spaces, athletic and recreational facilities, resident apartments, technological advancements, and additional student services. The composition of Clarke’s student body has also changed.

CLARKE'S NAMESAKE

“The most notable event that occurred during my time at

1843

ST. MARY’S FEMALE ACADEMY

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ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY ON THE PRAIRIE

1859

ACADEMY OF THE SACRED HEART

1868

MOUNT ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY

1881

MOVED TO PRESENT LOCATION

1901 MOUNT ST. JOSEPH COLLEGE

1928 – 2010 CLARKE COLLEGE

2010 – Present CLARKE UNIVERSITY

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"To what new places are we at Clarke being called to bring learning and faith? What rough seas do we face? Are there lessons for us in the journeys of our founders? What must we leave behind to get to new places and meet new needs?

Do we have the courage and capacity needed to persevere through disasters like dropping the common purse into the harbor?”

This year will be filled with celebrations and festivities in honor of Clarke’s 175th anniversary. As we immerse ourselves in the storied history of Clarke, we also look ahead to a bright future. We remain committed to Mary Frances Clarke’s call to be progressive with the times. This challenge will require conscientious effort, courage, and perseverance – just as it has for the past 175 years. 

For instance, student diversity has grown from approximately five percent in 2006 to nearly 20 percent in 2018, and today, more than 50 percent of undergraduate students are student-athletes.

The Clarke student experience was, and continues to be, robust with opportunity.

“I was provided with so many different opportunities during my time at Clarke and took advantage of as many as I could.

My daughter recently graduated from Clarke and I was amazed at how many more opportunities existed for her. I always encouraged her to do as much as she could handle,” explained Fuhrman.

Burritt shared, “I was active in the Clarke Student Association my sophomore year. I also sang in a folk trio and played guitar with two of my classmates, Sally Ricketts and Sue Stanley, through most of my time at Clarke. We played at Clarke and Loras talent shows along with concerts at local high schools.

This experience was not only a great time, but it also helped the three of us gain a lot of self-confidence.”

As Burrows reflected on her time in Ireland, she looks to the future of Clarke University: “Holding on to the image of a treacherous sea voyage was difficult as I prepared to return to life on the Iowa prairie following my Irish pilgrimage. My life seems far less treacherous than what the early monastics or the women who began the BVM Congregation faced. But if I have learned one thing while traveling in Ireland, it is to not be so literal and to allow the fanciful and poetic to have their place in my thinking about our world and the future.

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As we seek to provide an education today that is both fitting with the times and an embodiment of our founders’ spirit, we continue to embrace the core values of freedom, education, charity, and justice.

PRESIDENT SISTER JOANNE M. BURROWS, SC, PH.D.

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IMPACT THROUGH THE YEARS

W

EST.

1935

Memorial Award hile Clarke University celebrates its 175th

He was a partner in the O'Connor and Thomas law firm and

year, this year also marks the 83rd time

served as assistant Dubuque County attorney from 1942 to 1943.

recognizing recipients of the Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award. The Francis

J. O’Connor Memorial Award was established in 1935 and is recognized as the most prestigious honor bestowed upon a graduating senior. The award recipient – who is selected by a vote of the senior class, faculty, and staff – is outstanding in such traits as cooperation, generosity, kindness, leadership, and academic achievement.

The Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award recipient is announced at the Honors Banquet each spring. The recipient is officially recognized and receives the award during the Commencement ceremony.

A member of the local Bar Association, O'Connor was a former chairperson of the Iowa Supreme Court's grievance committee.

He served as a member of the board of Loras College, Mount Olivet Cemetery, Clarke University, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the Dubuque Boys’ Club, and the Dubuque Golf and Country Club. O'Connor was also a member of the exclusive Royal and Ancient Golf Club at St. Andrews, Scotland, and annually participated in its tournaments.

As one of a 26-member American delegation, O'Connor attended the investiture of Pope John Paul II in 1978 and, in 1979, was invited to the White House to meet the Pope during his visit to the United States. In 1983, in recognition of his assistance

This award was originally named the Mary Agnes O’Connor

to the Catholic Church, O'Connor received the Knight of St.

Award and was established by the late Frank A. O’Connor in

Gregory from Pope John Paul II. O’Connor passed away on

memory of his wife. In 1991, the University, in cooperation with

March 21, 1990, at the age of 74.

the O’Connor family, renamed the award the Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award to honor the late Francis J. O’Connor, who was the son of Frank and Mary Agnes O’Connor and a longtime Clarke Trustee.

Francis J. O'Connor's son, Frank shared, “I feel the naming of this award by the BVM sisters was in recognition of my father and grandfather and their close ties to the Clarke community. I'm so appreciative of them for honoring my family in this way.”

Francis J. O’Connor was born in New Hampton, Iowa, on March 29, 1916. He served as legal counsel to the Archdiocese of Dubuque for 47 years and also served as the legal representative of many seminaries and religious orders.

President Joanne Burrows, SC, Ph.D., shared, “It is a pleasure to honor these amazing award recipients each spring for their many accomplishments in the classroom and beyond. Each year, I am impressed by their varied interests and commitments.”

She continued, “The recipients are a source of great pride for our campus community. We know they are destined for great things personally and professionally.”

Francis J. O’Connor’s daughter, Karen Zeckser, shared, “This honor recognizes someone as a worthy individual of excellence in character and service as well as learning. Our dad felt that education is an essential tool, a pathway toward bettering ourselves, others, and our world.”

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NEWEST RECIPIENT

You will grow into the person you are meant to be. And, the

KYLE MAJERUS ’18

clubs and stick to the two or three that you have the most

BA in English with a minor in Business Administration

only way to discover who you are is to get involved. Join ten passion and love for; take a random music appreciation or business economics class because who knows, you may find an interest in either; and meet as many people as you can because you will find the perfect group of friends that allows you to be who you truly are.

Tell us about your plans after graduation.

I have secured a job at Heartland Financial USA, Inc., in Dubuque, as a Marketing Academy Associate. I am going through a marketing management trainee program, which Heartland Financial calls the marketing academy. I will work in the marketing department in areas such as digital marketing, analytics, product development, and sales support.

The intention of this program is to make me a well-rounded marketer and train me to become a marketing manager.

KYLE has demonstrated remarkable professionalism in his ability to garner the respect of his peers through motivating them to strive for a higher standard. He has made Clarke a second home and family and worked hard to create that feeling for

In the future, I plan to move to Chicago and work in

others as well. He graduated Magna Cum Laude

marketing. Additionally, I intend to return to school and earn

with a degree in English.

a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in either management, product and brand development, or marketing. But, for now, I want to live my life, gain

His undergraduate activities included: • Investment Club and Math Club

experiences, make memories, travel, and step away from

• Future Young Professionals

school for a while.

• Benchwarmers President, Vice President,

What impact do you think winning the award will have or has had on you?

Receiving the Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award has been a humbling and rewarding experience. It made the leadership roles, extra hours in the library, days of stress, and putting myself out there all worth it. It made me prouder of myself, and it is currently my greatest achievement. The impact that winning this award will have is immeasurable. I think it will only fuel my ambition to reach greatness. I will push myself every day to exemplify the core values this award is based on – leadership, cooperation, generosity, and kindness.

and Treasurer • Tuckpointer • Sophomore Class President • Clarke Student Association Treasurer and President • Pride Ambassador/Tour Guide • Former winner and Emcee of Mr. Clarke Guy • Clarke Student Academic Conference and Streamlines Undergraduate Academic Conference Presenter

What advice would you give a student today?

It is okay to not know what you want to do with your life.

You will grow so much in your 4+ years of college that your interests and ambitions may change. Don’t fight the change.

Rather, allow it to happen, and you will find happiness.

• Contributor to The Crux and Co-Editor in Chief of the Tenth Muse Literary Magazine • Copywriter/Marketing Intern and Library Circulation Desk Worker • Microeconomics Tutor • CONNECT Orientation Coordinator

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RECIPIENT FROM 50 YEARS AGO ROSALIA BUDA-CLAUSSEN ’68 BA in Teaching with a Music major

Tell us about your career.

I worked with young people for 35 years and had a variety of child-centered occupations. I taught special needs children for several years to prepare for a Master of Arts Counselor Education Program. I completed this degree at the University of Iowa. I was a high school guidance counselor for 13 years,

This award is a constant reminder of how influential and passionate about education my father and grandfather were. This award symbolizes moving forward; it’s a starting point, not an ending.

then moved on to a position as a Juvenile Court Officer for the State of Iowa and worked with delinquent children. In my career, I was blessed to be in a place to inspire young people to develop their potential to become capable citizens and to

JOHN O'CONNOR, SON OF FRANCIS. J. O'CONNOR

advocate for children’s fundamental right to be loved and to love back. Additionally, I spent a year working as the Director of the Domestic Abuse Shelter and developed shelter services for victims of domestic abuse and their children in the community and surrounding counties.

What is your fondest memory of Clarke?

One of my fondest memories of Clarke is the opportunity to embrace social action in the tumultuous 1960s: the Vietnam War, struggle for racial integration, political assassinations,

My professional career paved the way for a fulfilling

and the crusade against poverty and other forms of injustice.

“retirement career.” Now in the evening of my life, I swim

I was instrumental in inviting Father James Groppi, a noted

regularly, play bridge, enjoy my family, and am a student of

civil rights activist, to come to Dubuque. On January 16, 1968,

the Holocaust. I love the Catholic Church and have served

nearly 2,300 students, faculty, and citizens packed the Loras

in key leadership roles in my Parish: Chair of the Pastoral

Fieldhouse to hear Father Groppi. The event captured the

Council, Stewardship Committee, and Food Bank Ministry.

spirit of the freedom-seeking movements of the time and was

I also serve as a reader and am a volunteer coordinator for

made possible by the BVM commitment to and investment

The Iowa Radio Reading Information Service for the Blind

in justice. (This event was covered in the Telegraph Herald

and Print Handicapped (IRIS).

newspaper on January 17, 1968.)

What impact did winning the award have on you?

I have treasured memories of Sister Anna Ruth and the peace

I felt truly honored to receive the esteemed Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award. I was humbled, knowing the women of the Class of 1968 and their academic gifts, dignity, and goodness.

coming over me in the serenity of her piano studio. Fifty years later, I practice the piano because of her influence.

What advice would you give students today?

I would encourage students today to embrace life. Thank God

I hoped I was a worthy representative for the excellence that

for each day spent on this beautiful earth with the people you

was about to grace the world. This honor influenced me to strive

love. Be a promising student, achieve a college degree, but

to contribute to humankind, which was fostered in me as a

also nurture lifetime curiosity and love of learning. Be known

Clarke student.

for your faith, patience, kindness, love of people, sense of humor, and endless questions. 

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A JOURNEY THROUGH AUTHENTIC

AND A PILGRIMAGE TO AUTHENTIC LIFE

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very journey is a quest, whether you know it or not. This is the story of 27 individuals who journeyed to Ireland in celebration of Clarke University’s 175th anniversary. Led by Clarke President Sister Joanne Burrows; Clarke President Emerita Sister Catherine Dunn; Clarke Provost Emerita and Professor Emerita Sister Joan Lingen; and Clarke Professor Emerita and Board of Trustees Member Sister Mary Ann Zollmann, the group gathered together to embark on a heritage tour of Ireland.

The trip originated because the trip leaders wanted to share the story of how Clarke came to be, and how its 175 year history has shaped who Clarke has become today. They also wished to underline the connection between the spirit and art to show that they are not separate.

Sister Catherine Dunn reflected, “We were seeking to uncover the past and discover who we are. We found ourselves refreshed and renewed by the beauty of the land and the spirit of the ancient ruins.”

In 1832, Mary Frances Clarke and her four companions Eliza Kelly, Margaret Mann, Rose O’Toole, and Catherine Byrne opened their first school on North Anne Street in Dublin.

This school was known as Miss Clarke’s Seminary and served as a private institution for Catholic education in a destitute part of the city. They believed providing an education to young girls was a way to quickly expand literacy among the impoverished people.

In 1833, these five women traveled to America first arriving in Philadelphia and eventually settling in Dubuque in 1843. Upon arriving in Dubuque, they established the St. Mary’s Female Academy, which is the lineal ancestor of Clarke University.

Now, 175 years later, this group of travelers comprised of alumni, trustees, BVM Sisters, and friends, went to Ireland stopping first in Dublin for a peek at the past and to visit a bustling and lively city.

Sister Mary Ann Zollmann said, “We greeted Dublin in an appropriate way — with a tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Museum.

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"We learned the story of the production of this Irish specialty,

children together in the same school. All human beings were

savored its layers of taste under the tutelage of an expert, and

destined to be free, regardless of faith or fortune. Education

were treated to an impressive view of the city of Dublin from

was not merely for learning itself or for enrichment, but for

the heights of the museum.

freedom to live, work, and worship without barriers.”

"In keeping with the Irish spirit, the tour was lively

The group traveled to Killarney and found themselves

and initiated all of us in the zesty spirit characteristic

imagining life in castles surrounded by expansive gardens.

of Ireland.”

They visited Blarney Castle and Gardens, Ross Castle, and The

Also while in Dublin, they visited St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College. “In awe, we walked the halls of Trinity College;

enjoying the ‘practiced blarney’ of their carriage drivers.

marveled at the beauty rendered by the creativity, patience,

“These were excursions into another world where we

and playfulness of 6th century monks; and wondered at

anticipated the apparition of Queen Victoria around a corner,

the seemingly miraculous survival of documents through

listened for the peculiar ring of one of 32 bells summoning

multiple waves of monastery pillaging,” explained Sister

a servant, and breathed in the scent of abundant blooming

Joan Lingen.

flowers. We tapped into the magical, mystical facets of our

Sister Joanne Burrows added, “We visited the space north of the Liffey River where Mary Frances and her four companions

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Muckross House and Gardens in horse-drawn carriages while

Irish roots planted in us from long ago that were waiting to be awakened,” shared Zollmann.

came to live and begin a school on North Anne Street. They

She went on to add, “We spent an evening together at Major

held the deep conviction that education was the way to

Colgan’s Pub in Killarney where we sang along with the live

freedom. Interestingly, they defied both church and state

Irish music and clapped with the beat of Irish dancers. Our

authorities by educating poor Catholics’ and Protestants’

group sang for all in the pub and some even danced.

We were seeking to uncover the past and discover who we are. We found ourselves refreshed and renewed by the beauty of the land and the spirit of the ancient ruins.

"We all got in touch with the Irish humor and delight that is our heritage no matter what our DNA.” They spent time in Dingle, visiting the Blasket Islands and seeing the Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park.

Dunn shared, “Dingle Peninsula is simply beautiful and magnificent. It is like stepping back a century – you see sheep and cattle herders and waterfalls. It is another world entirely.”

In Dingle, they also traversed Slea Head Drive, a narrow winding road through mountainous terrain and rocky dropoffs to the Atlantic Ocean, which offered a view of islands, oceans, and sloping emerald lands turned gold by Dingle’s unusual gift of the sun. They toured Skellig’s Island, a sixth century monastic site where many of our ancestors came to connect with God. This site also served as Luke Skywalker’s home in “Star Wars.”

Whether as an early God-seeker, film-goer, or Clarke pilgrim, the sight of this craggy mountainous island reaching from ocean to heaven cannot help but evoke wonder. The travelers often paused for photos through the lens of their cameras and, more importantly, for photos taken with their eyes and accessible through their heart’s mind for the rest of their lives.

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The group was entranced by the slice of Irish history

Dunn reflected, “Claiming those gifts as our own, we became

opened up at the Blasket Islands Visitors’ Center. The

more committed to being bearers of beauty and incarnations

Blasket Islands are in the Atlantic Ocean off the West

of peace.”

Coast of Ireland. The Islands were inhabited until 1953 by a completely Irish-speaking population. The people lived there under harsh conditions, but with the joyful spirit derived from a simple community life dependent upon one another. This area attracted writers who told the story of the islands so no one would ever forget its unusual and vanishing inhabitants, many of whose relatives and descendants emigrated to America.

A few days were spent in Galway where they visited the Aran Islands and made the five-hour drive along the Ring of Kerry. The group found themselves awed at every turn by the beauty of lake, ocean, and mountains; lush trees climbing the sides of hills; and goats, sheep, and cows dotting farmlands.

Often they observed in reverent silence, as they simply absorbed the beauty and inhaled the tangible peace.

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During this Clarke heritage pilgrimage, the travelers engaged in ever-deepening conversations around meal tables, on long coach rides, and while walking around the sites they visited.

They learned more about their fellow companion pilgrims, glimpsing into their goodness, and, like Mary Frances Clarke, Margaret Mann, Rose O’Toole, Catherine Byrne, and Eliza Kelly, they formed their own special circle of friends. 

Women Religious and a Tradition of Art, Faith, and Justice

By Rachel Spurling ’18 Exhibit Curator

T

he Dubuque Museum of Art welcomes

The artists did not merely paint religious iconography or

an exhibit this fall that will put to rest any

decorative landscapes; they captured spirituality within

preconceived ideas about women religious

the creation of art.

artists. The works of Iowa-born pop artist Sister Corita Kent will be displayed alongside many

gifted local artists from September 22 – January 6. This is an event for all ages, genders, religions, and cultural origins. It has color, life, righteousness, but most importantly, it has Sisters.

Possibly the greatest asset of this exhibit is the inclusion of artwork from the BVM Sisters, Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, and Presentation Sisters. This exhibition will feature works from Clarke’s very own Sr. James Ann Walsh ’35, Sr. Helen Kerrigan ’42, Sr. Carmelle Zserdin ’61, and Louise Kames ’77.

The unique admiration for life that these women shared influenced not only their teaching practices, but also their way of examining and creating art. Many participated in social activism, scrutinizing political decisions that inflicted harm or anguish on others. Kent became particularly invested in creating works that accentuated her agenda for social justice, and she quickly became an influential voice for many.

I have been gifted the opportunity to curate this exceptional exhibit. I started working at the Dubuque Museum of Art as an intern last fall and was initially assigned to write the catalog for this unique exhibit. I soon realized there was

Many of these artists, including Kent, studied at

much to be done and was thrilled to be asked to play a larger

esteemed art schools around the world and cultivated

role in the exhibit’s execution. I am extremely grateful for

their accrued knowledge to educate their students. In

the opportunity to work with several of these extraordinary

addition to their teaching responsibilities, they worked

artists and bring to light their dearest life accomplishments.

tirelessly to brand themselves as professional artists. Their

My Clarke University education – inside and outside of the

efforts undoubtedly paid off, as many have exhibited their

classroom – prepared me for this experience. It is truly an

work nationally and internationally.

honor to be involved in an exhibit showcasing such an

The Dubuque Museum of Art will offer a glimpse into the lives

important and influential group of women.

of these important women artists by highlighting their most

The Clarke University Alumni Office will be hosting a gallery

significant artwork. The exhibition title, "Just to Live is Holy:

talk and tour at the Dubuque Museum of Art on Thursday,

Women Religious and a Tradition of Art, Faith, and Justice,"

November 15, from 6-7:30 p.m. To register, visit clarke.edu/

captures how divine this exhibit is going to be.

alumni/events. 

19

Dear Alumni and Friends, It is time to celebrate!

In today’s busy world, we often turn to the next challenge that lies ahead without taking a moment to reflect upon that which has just been accomplished. We encourage you to set aside time on a regular basis to recognize your successes, celebrate your accomplishments, and appreciate the individuals who have helped you along the way.

At Clarke, we have much to celebrate with you and here are just a few examples.

• Guided by Mother Mary Frances Clarke’s call to remain progressive with the times while staying true to our core values, Clarke has withstood the test of time.

Now, we’re preparing to celebrate 175 years of changing lives.

• This past year, Clarke successfully completed its largest capital fundraising campaign in history. Our $34 million goal was surpassed and nearly $39 million was raised. This campaign supported projects such as the Marie Miske Center for Science Inquiry, Lingen Technology Commons, Nursing Simulation and Food Science Labs, and improved and expanded athletic facilities. Records were also set in the annual fund and significant growth was achieved for the endowment.

• During the past ten years, student diversity on campus has grown from

A MESSAGE FROM INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

approximately 5 percent to nearly 20 percent.

• As always, our most impressive accomplishment continues to be the students we serve and the impact they make in communities worldwide. We look forward to sharing success stories with you in our upcoming print and electronic publications.

• And, of course, we celebrate you, our alumni and friends. Without your current and past support, Clarke would not be the school it is today.

In closing, I would like to wish Clarke University a very happy 175th birthday. We look forward to the next 175 years with confidence and hope knowing we have the commitment and support of so many wonderful alumni and friends who generously share their resources with us.

Thank you and please be sure to celebrate with us throughout this important anniversary year.

Sincerely,

Bill Biebuyck Vice President for Institutional Advancement

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FOUNDATION AND GOVERNMENT GRANTS $1,034,838 was raised from 30 organizations

ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS $440,788 was raised towards endowed scholarships and awards

MATCHING GIFTS $48,370 was raised from 34 individuals through 30 matching gift companies

PARENTS GIVING $82,984 was raised from parents of alumni and current students

ALUMNI GIVING

FACULTY AND STAFF GIVING

13.8 percent of active alumni participated in a giving program $1,018,713 was raised from alumni households

$46,717 was raised from 134 members of the Clarke faculty, faculty emeriti, and staff

ALUMNI EVENTS

ESTATE GIFT COMMITMENTS

The Clarke Alumni Association hosted 52 events and connected with 991 alumni and friends

2 new members of the Mary Frances Clarke Legacy Society

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

DONOR INVESTMENT IN CLARKE

483 donor-funded scholarships and awards totaling $576,569 were awarded to Clarke students

Clarke supporters invested $2,764,923 in facility renovations, program and student support, and technology advancements

2017 - 2018

Clarke is grateful to have support from many sources. On behalf of the entire university community ‌ THANK YOU.

To view our 2017-18 Clarke University Year-In-Review, visit clarke.edu/yearinreview/17-18.

h

If you are interested in learning more about establishing a charitable legacy through the Clarke Lives Endearment Campaign, please contact Courtney Leonard at (563)588-6585 or visit plannedgiving.clarke.edu.

21

MILESTONES

CURRENT LOCATION

1843

CLARKE COLLEGE

1901

1881

LAY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

1964

1928

ST. MARY'S ACADEMY

1967

MOUNT ST. JOSEPH COLLEGE

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

ANNUAL CAMPUS TREE PLANTING Each year, the incoming freshman class plants a new young tree as a symbol of their progress and growth during their years to come at Clarke. At Convocation, during their senior year, the class celebrates their success and transformation as they name their tree that will be a symbol of their time at Clarke. This tradition began under the leadership of President Mary Bertrand Foley, BVM, in 1906. To date, 112 trees have been planted on campus.

CLARKE UNIVERSITY MEMORIAL TREE MAP 17

1

R.C. and Celeste Wahlert Atrium 2 Haas Administrative Offices, Jansen Music Hall, Quigley Gallery 1550 3 Sacred Heart Chapel 4 Nicholas J. Schrup Library 5 Eliza Kelly Hall 6 Alumnae Lecture Hall 7 Catherine Byrne Hall 8 Marie Miske Center for Science Inquiry 9 Keller Computer Center 10 Mary Josita Hall 11 Mary Benedict Hall 12 Catherine Dunn Apartments 13 Terence Donaghoe Hall Theatre 14 Robert and Ruth Kehl Center 15 Student Activity Center, Café 1843, Whitlow Campus Store 16 Mary Frances Hall, Stoltz Student Life Wing 17 R.C. Wahlert Sports Complex P Visitor Parking

P

P

16

20

15 24

15 14

16

8

11

27

10

9

7 13

3 4

C

5

4 6

L

A

R

K

D

E

R

IV

28

3

1

29 30

31

P

5 E

18

7

26

12

17

19 21

22

6

25

13

14

8

23

P

2

9

4

32

P

10 33 36

1

34

2 37

35 40

38 39

11

41 43

45 46 47

42

WE

44

LO ST

CU

ST

**Due to the evolution of Clarke's campus, some trees have been lost to expansion as well as natural causes.

12

BUILDING LOCATION TREE LOCATION 22

1. Hero; Class of 2004

17. Lucy; Memorial for Lucilda O’Connor,

32. “Lo hicimos!”; Replanted tree of the Class of 1961

1974

CO-ED ENROLLMENT

1984

1979 INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS

ADULT PROGRAMS

CLARKE UNIVERSITY

2004

2010

1986 THE GREAT FIRE

2018

DOCTORAL PROGRAMS

175TH ANNIVERSARY

treedition A CLARKE

LIST OF TREES REMAINING ON CAMPUS (In order of campus location indicated in yellow on the map)

1. HERO; Class of 2004, Honey Locust

17. LUCY; Memorial for Lucilda O’Connor, BVM; Class of 2008, Northern Red Oak

32. “LO HICIMOS!”; Replanted in honor of the Class of 1961, Nannyberry

18. SERENDIPITY; Class of 2008 , Autumn Blaze Maple

33. IL CORAGGIO ESSERE; Class of 1965, Tulip Tree 34. (NAME UNKNOWN); Class of 1968 , Linden

5. CURIOSITREE; Class of 1982 , Ash

19. MEMORIAL FOR LAST FIVE CAMPUS BVMS LIVING ON CAMPUS; Class of 1998, Grove of Lindens and Flowering Crabs

6. TREEDITION; Class of 1981 , Red Maple

20. LEGACY; Class of 2005 , Ornamental Pear

7. ELMA MATER; Replanted in honor of Class of 1974 , Ornamental Pear Tree

21. STEEL MAGNOLIA; Class of 1990 , Pink Magnolia

37. SON OF A BUSH; Class of 1971, Maple

8. (NAME TO BE DESIGNATED); Class of 2021 , Royal Red Maple

22. TREEVOLTA; Class of 1978 , Saucer Magnolia

38. (NAME UNKNOWN); Class of 1995 , Green Ash

9. (NAME UNKNOWN); Replanted in honor of Class of 1954 , Magnolia

23. KRISTEN; Class of 2000 , Flowering Crab

39. JULIO; Class of 1994, Silver Maple

24. (NAME TO BE DESIGNATED); Class of 2020 , Ginko Biloba (Autumn Blaze)

40. #TREE; Class of 2013, Foxtail Spruce

2. BELIEVE; Class of 2007 , Prairie Crab Apple 3. GROOT; Class of 2016, Scarlet Red Oak 4. NICOLE; Memorial for Nicole Thing; Class of 2017 , Variegated Norway Maple

10. KATHY; Memorial for Kathy Decker; Class of 2008, Northwood Maple 11. SADER FOR LIFE; Class of 2018, Northern Red Oak 12. ELEPHANT; Class of 1997, Dwarf Blue Spruce

25. PENELOPE; Class of 1910, Larch (Oldest tree on campus) 26. SERVICE TREE; In honor of Clarke Community Service; 2003, Maple

35. FRANCIS; Class of 2003 , Royal Red Maple 36. HEKATON EIKOS; Class of 1963 , Maple

41. ENDURANCE; Class of 2015, Kentucky Coffeetree 42. SINGLE JON; Class of 2014, Northern Red Oak

27. GALAHAD; Class of 1931 , Aborvitae

43. THE WHOMPING WILLOW; Class of 2012, Burr Oak

14. CATHERINE; Class of 2006 , White Oak

28. (NAME TO BE DESIGNATED); Class of 2019, Cleveland Flowering Pear

44. UNIVERSITREE; Class of 2011, Swamp White Oak

15. WANGARI MAATHAI; Memorial for Wangari Maathai; Class of 2012, Blue Spruce

29. ANNIE; Memorial for Anne Siegrist, BVM; Blue Spruce

45. THE THINKING TREE; Class of 2009 , Chinkapin Oak

16. TRUMAN; Class of 1999 , Dwarf Flowering Crab

30. APOGEE; Class of 2002 , Emerald Maple

46. BRANCHES OF TIME; Class of 2010 , Pin Oak

13. DIANA TERESA; Class of 1998 , Autumn Blaze Maple

31. SYNERGY; Class of 1989 , Crab Apple

47. REMEMBRANCE; Class of 2001 , Red Maple

23

home ARTS AT CLARKE UPCOMING EVENTS

T

he 2018-2019 arts and lecture offerings will

This event will feature a group of very talented alumni

pay tribute to Clarke’s 175th anniversary with

musicians performing various styles of music from

a series of events designed to highlight the

different genres and time periods. The ‘A Night at Home’

theme of Home and showcase our extremely

concert will include duets with Marcus DeJesus ’14 and

talented alumni. The term Home can take on a variety of

Kristina Castaneda ’01; and Erin (Kane) Callahan ’09 and

identities – Clarke as home, Dubuque as home, Iowa as home,

Abby (Schultz) McInerney ’08; and a solo performance by

pride in where your story starts. The theme of Home allows

Megan Gloss ’03. The event will also include cuisine with a

for celebration, reflection, and hope.

homemade, homestyle flair prepared by Clarke University

The Edward J. and Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke Series will kick things off with ‘A Night at Home’ on September 25.

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Dining Services.

CHARITY NEBBE

MONIQUE WHITTINGTON '89

The first Mackin-Mailander Lecture Series event will be

The second Edward J. and Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke

presented by Charity Nebbe on October 17.

Series event this fall will feature Monique Whittington in

Nebbe is the host of Iowa Public Radio's weekday show, Talk of Iowa, and of Iowa Public Television's show, Iowa Ingredient.

Nebbe grew up in rural Iowa and graduated from Cedar Falls High School, Iowa State University, and is a 23-year veteran of public broadcasting. She is also the author of the children's book Our Walk in the Woods, published in 2008. She is a proud Iowan and is grateful for the opportunity to develop a sense of community by exploring the state of Iowa and sharing stories of Iowans through her radio program.

concert on October 23. Whittington graduated from Clarke in 1989 with a degree in Theatre and is a gifted vocalist, actress, and playwright. She has served as a praise and worship leader, Drama ministry supervisor, soloist, workshop facilitator, and guest speaker for various programs and women’s retreats. Whittington completed three national tours with the hit show Menopause the Musical, performing in 44 of the 50 states including Alaska and Hawaii. She currently serves as an Assistant Principal of an elementary school on Chicago’s West Side. Her Clarke performance is entitled ‘Wit, Wisdom, & Worship.’ 

For more information on Arts at Clarke events, please visit clarke.edu/artsatclarke.

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YOUR GIFT. YOUR WAY. IT TAKES HEART. IT TAKES VISION. IT TAKES ACTION. IT TAKES YOU. 100% of undergraduate students at Clarke receive some form of financial aid. In fact, many wouldn’t be able to receive an education here without the support of donors like you. So your gift is more than appreciated; it’s necessary. Whatever is near and dear to you about Clarke can be directly impacted by your gift. You choose where your gift will be used. It’s your gift, your way.

888.225.2753 | yourgiftyourway.org

al

annu h t f fi e th

y a D e k r a l C # OCTOBER

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clarke.edu/classnotes

SHARE YOUR UPDATES WITH US! alumnirelations@clarke.edu or online at clarke.edu/submitclassnote (Don’t forget to send pictures!)

Your life is full of amazing happenings – and we love to share in your joy.

9/9

BRUNCH DES MOINES, IA

9/10

CHEERS DES MOINES, IA

9/11

CHEERS KANSAS CITY, MO

9/16

MASS & PRESIDENTIAL BRUNCH PHILADELPHIA, PA

9/29

COOKOUT SOCIAL ROCKFORD, IL

10/6

ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME DUBUQUE, IA

12-14

HOMECOMING DUBUQUE, IA

11/10

CHEERS CHICAGO, IL

11/11

MASS & PRESIDENTIAL BRUNCH CHICAGO, IL

Visit clarke.edu/alumni/events for a complete listing of upcoming events and opportunities to connect!

PB

1550 Clarke Drive Dubuque, Iowa 52001-3198

C LARKE UNI V ERSITY HOM E COMIN G

OCTOBER 12-14 2018

SAVE THE DATE