Clarke University Alumni Magazine - Spring 2018

clarke PREPARING LIFE-READY STUDENTS

FIELD TRIP: DIVERSE LEARNING IN MILWAUKEE PAGE 2

CLARKE UNIVERSITY GOLF CLASSIC: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS PAGE 4

S P R I N G 20 1 8

OUTCOMES: GRADUATES OF CLARKE'S PRE-LAW PROGRAM ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE PAGE 14

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Alumni and Friends, I write to you this spring as we near the end of another academic year.

At this time of year, I’m always struck by how fast the academic year passes.

Preparations are underway for Commencement in May as we look forward to sending another talented class of Clarke graduates out into the world.

The scope of higher education continues to evolve and surprise us with a new topic of concern emerging weekly, it seems. Clarke University remains committed to preparing graduates for career and life. We provide expectations, opportunities, and support system for students to learn, develop, and practice necessary intellectual and communicative skills.

This issue of the magazine is once again complete with stories about the wonderful things our students and graduates are doing in and out of the classroom, and in their careers after Clarke. Students and faculty from the Education Department spent time in January at two very different school environments in Milwaukee learning about the dynamics of educational diversity in schools. Students and faculty from the Drama and Musical Theatre Department took their spring show on the road to Dubuque-area elementary schools to spread ideas of compassion, anti-bullying, and character building. Also in this issue is a revealing story about our successful pre-law alumni and their lives as practicing attorneys throughout the country.

Life on the Clarke campus is always active and thought-provoking. We host lectures, performances, gallery exhibits, concerts, athletic events, and much more. We are also in the midst of very important work with Strategic Planning for the future of Clarke University. In addition, we will celebrate Clarke’s 175th anniversary throughout the 2018-19 academic year. Information on the many festivities will be coming your way throughout this summer. We hope you are able to join us in our celebrations of this milestone.

Thank you, our treasured alumni and friends, for your continued support of all we do. Your commitment to the Clarke community makes our plans and vision come to life.

Easter blessings to you and your family. I wish you a beautiful spring.

Sincerely,

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

IN THIS ISSUE | SPRING 2018

02 04 07 08 12 13 14

FIELD TRIP: DIVERSE LEARNING IN MILWAUKEE

18 20 22 24 25

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY

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

Joanne M. Burrows, SC, Ph.D. President Bill Biebuyck Vice President for Institutional Advancement Courtney Leonard Executive Director of Development

CLARKE UNIVERSITY GOLF CLASSIC: CELEBRATING 30 YEARS FRANCIS J. O'CONNOR AWARD WINNER THE BULLY SHOW WHAT'S TRENDING ON CLARKE'S SOCIAL MEDIA

Jodi Hooks ’99 Associate Director of Alumni Relations Megan Stull Assistant to the President Gayle Langel ’08, '17M Creative Director Hannah Thorson '17M Design & Web Manager Susan Cain Content Strategist

WAY BACK WHEN OUTCOMES: GRADUATES OF CLARKE’S PRE-LAW PROGRAM ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE

SPRING SEMESTER EVENT RECAP A MESSAGE FROM ALUMNI RELATIONS SNAPSHOTS THEN & NOW

Kyle Majerus '18 Student Copywriter EDITOR: Susan Cain DESIGNER: Hannah Thorson Clarke University 1550 Clarke Drive Dubuque, IA 52001-3198 (563)588-6318 Fax: (563)588-6789 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, nondiscrimination, and equal employment opportunity.

FIELD TRIP

DIVERSE LEARNING IN MILWAUKEE

E

arlier this spring semester, a group of Clarke students and faculty learned about the dynamics of educational diversity in schools during a six-day trip to Milwaukee, WI. The group was made up of nine Education students from the class of 2018 and two faculty members, Paula Schmidt, Interim Dean of Undergraduate Studies and Director of Graduate Education Studies, and Ellen Spencer, Assistant Professor of Education.

The group interacted with faculty and students in two very different school settings in Milwaukee. The first school is a pre-kindergarten through 12th grade private college preparatory school. Student amenities of this school include state-of-the art technology and equipment, an ice skating rink, yoga studio, ballet studio, and full indoor playground. The second school is a public school with no extra student amenities. The two schools are located just six miles apart.

The Clarke students observed, taught, and interacted with children for two days at each school. This experience provided them with a broader perspective of the challenges facing students in both socioeconomic settings. Both schools face challenges, and each have their own rewards, just very different ones. Though the two schools have different resources and environments, the ultimate goal remains the same.

Paula Schmidt noted, “In both settings, the students and their needs are paramount.”

“Not only has this experience opened my eyes to different social classes, and cultures of the schools in Milwaukee, it allowed me to build new relationships. These relationships not only consisted of my classmates but with the students within the schools as well.

"This amazing opportunity opened my eyes to the type of environment I can be successful in when I become a licensed teacher,” explained Kim Russell ’18.

The group’s learning experience continued well into the evenings.

They stayed in a rental house where they shared meals and stories

each day, completed course activities, and listened to several guest speakers who offered diverse perspectives on the course material.

The group noted that the students enrolled at the private school were very self-sufficient, and at the public school the children were in need of much more basic necessities such as shelter, food, and someone to listen to or even hug them.

“This experience has reaffirmed the type of environment I want to teach in and create. I want to build relationships with my students by being a stable adult figure that is invested in them becoming more than their situation,” said Calsey Bradley ’18.

Prior to their departure for Milwaukee, the Clarke students studied two books: “A Framework for Understanding Poverty” by Ruby K. Payne, Ph.D., and “Savage Inequalities” by Jonathan Kozol.

Ellen Spencer said, “These two books are pivotal in learning about diversity and being able to react and handle diverse situations. In the evenings at the house, we would discuss how the interactions we experienced during the day could be defined or explained by the concepts in the books. It really brought the experience full circle.”

At the end of their journey, the classmates reflected that no matter where they teach, they want to help students and make a difference in the lives of those in need. 

This emotional experience has given me so much insight about diverse opportunities of students, school philosophies, and teacher-student relationships. Being able to go home with my classmates every night and be in a comfortable environment to safely discuss our experience from the day allowed me to grow and learn in great ways.

- Brianna Pfeiler '18

I not only got to see first-hand why things like movement, student-directed learning, and community are important in today’s classrooms, but I got to experience it.

- Emily Heinen '18

I learned so much. Even things I might take for granted, like making sure to look up and notice ALL of your students and creating a sense of community in your classroom and school.

I was able to see both ends of the spectrum in the classrooms.

This allowed me to figure out what kind of teacher I want to be and how I want my classroom to be structured.

- Allie Graesing '18 Clarke University | 2018

3

THE CLARKE UNIVERSITY

T

hirty years ago, a dedicated group of volunteers and staff decided to create a new fundraising event to support the institution, and their efforts created the Clarke Golf Classic. This initial group of Bernadine (Bernie) Geisler ’43, Sonia Hickson, Alphonse (Babe) Bisignano, Lou King, and Sister Therese Mackin, BVM, ’50 set out to raise funds for the construction of the Robert & Ruth Kehl Center.

The event quickly grew to become one of the premier golf events in the region, and once the Kehl Center was completed, proceeds from the Golf Classic began supporting a scholarship program that provides funding for incoming students from the tri-state region. It continues to support these students today by awarding six $1,000 scholarships that are renewable up to four years.

“As we prepare to celebrate this 30th anniversary milestone, it is a joy to look back at the many volunteers, generous sponsors, and guests who have come together with a common mission to support our local students and build this event into the success it continues to be today,” said Clarke Faculty Emerita Therese Mackin, BVM, ’50.

The Golf Classic has raised more than $1.7 million for Clarke University.

Since 1995, 127 students have benefited from the Clarke Classic scholarship program, and 98 of these students continue to live and work within 30 miles of Clarke today.

“Receiving the Clarke Classic scholarship was a great honor. The financial support was very helpful because it allowed me to focus on my classes and prepare for medical school,” explained Shelley (Schlosser) Shafer, D.O., ’08. “Following my residency in family

6 4

Clarke University | 2018

RECEIVING THE CLARKE CLASSIC SCHOLARSHIP WAS A GREAT HONOR. THE FINANCIAL SUPPORT WAS VERY HELPFUL BECAUSE IT ALLOWED ME TO FOCUS ON MY CLASSES AND PREPARE FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL. - Shelley (Schlosser) Shafer, D.O., ’08

medicine, I returned to Dubuque with my husband and twin boys to be closer to our family and to continue my medical career with UnityPoint Health. I believe this scholarship program provides a unique opportunity to honor local students as they begin their college careers. If we can create a positive experience early, we can hopefully motivate many of these successful individuals to remain in the Dubuque area long after their time at Clarke.”

Until 2007, the event featured local and national celebrity guests.

The celebrity guests often included coaching legends like Johnny Orr,

Herb Brooks, and Lou Holtz, as well as professional athletes such as Chi Chi Rodriguez and Dallas Clark.

In 2008, the steering committee decided to retire the tradition of inviting celebrity guests to the event every year. This decision allowed for additional revenue to support the scholarship program.

Under the leadership of Clarke University Trustee Emeritus Bob Wahlert, his wife, Donna Wahlert ’86, and Sister Therese Mackin, the 2018 Clarke Golf Classic will take place on Monday, June 4, at the Dubuque Golf and Country Club. The event will kick off with a midday meal and golf.

Past Clarke Golf Classic Committee Chairs 1989 – Robert Peacock *

1999 – Doug Stillings

2009 – Norma Kramer ’10

1990 – Robert Peacock *

2000 – Dave Kapler

2010 – Dale Leibfried

1991 – Frank O’Connor

2001 – Gene Bird

2011 – Nancy ’67 and Jim Klauer

1992 – Sue Juergens ’69

2002 – Bill Callahan

2012 – Robert and Marilyn Hoefer

1993 – John Schmidt

2003 – Robert Peacock *

2013 – Jeanne ’66 and Brendan Quann

1994 – Greg Burbach

2004 – Larry Cremer *

2014 – Sharon Kress ’69 and Keith Cook

1995 – Merle Santjer

2005 – Lynn Kirchhoff

2015 – Dick and Mary McKay

1996 – Kevin Schmitt

2006 – Chip Piekenbrock

1997 – Todd Stevenson

2007 – Randy Hendricks

2016 – Sue ’69 and Steve Juergens & Wanda and Chuck Morrow

1998 – Bob Anderson, Jr.

2008 – Deb Siegworth ’01

2017 – Carol ’01 and Dennis Powers * Deceased

Immediately following the golf tournament, more than 200 guests will enjoy a gourmet dinner and have the opportunity to bid on exciting auction items.

“The Clarke Golf Classic has been built and sustained by the generous support of our local community with a goal of retaining top talent in the area following their graduation from Clarke. Our scholarship recipients have gone on to lead impressive lives through their dedication to our community and their chosen professions,” said Clarke President Joanne M. Burrows, SC, Ph.D. 

2018 Clarke Golf Classic Committee HONORARY CHAIR

HOSPITALITY

Therese Mackin, BVM, ’50

Nancy Laugesen Deb Schroeder

CO-CHAIRS Bob and Donna ’86 Wahlert

SPONSORSHIP AND AUCTION Mike Merritt

SCHOLARSHIP Julie Cirks ’06 Becky Herrig ’84M, ’16M Olivia Weikum

Andy Schroeder ’02, ’10M

COORDINATORS Jayme Ironside Angela Ventris

For more information about the Clarke Golf Classic and ways to get involved, please contact the Institutional Advancement Office at (563)588-6405 or visit clarke.edu/golfclassic.

8

Clarke University | 2018

EST.

1955

IRENE “RENE” (MANNING) ROONEY 19 78 AWA RD REC IP IEN T

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER. I have been a social worker for the past 35 years and have had a variety of social work experiences. Initially, I was part of a mobile healthcare team that went to shelters that provided services to the homeless in the Chicago area. There were nurses, doctors, and social workers who provided healthcare services and helped link people to community resources in an effort to ultimately get them into affordable housing. After that, I transferred to working in a hospital as a medical social worker. I have worked as a medical social worker for the past 27 years. I love my work with patients and their families to assist with discharge planning and linking them to resources in the community.

WHAT IMPACT DID WINNING THE AWARD HAVE ON YOU? Receiving the Francis J. O’Connor Award was an honor when I graduated from Clarke. This honor challenged me to continue to do my best to live a life filled with BVM values that were instilled in me as a student at Clarke. Every day I strive to keep God at the center of my life and to share my many blessings.

This honor challenged me to continue to do my best to live a life filled with BVM values that were instilled in me as a student at Clarke.

WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST MEMORY OF CLARKE? One of my fondest memories of Clarke is the sense of community I felt during my years there. There were so many experiences of community: the Mitten Tree party at Christmas time, Mass in the Sacred Heart Chapel, parties in the Union, Eagle Point Park picnics, Homecoming, and helping new students move in.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A STUDENT TODAY? I would encourage students today to be their unique self and to take advantage of the many academic and social opportunities available at Clarke University. Spend time getting to know your God, your professors, and the students around you. You will develop friendships that will last a lifetime!

Clarke University | 2018

7

10 8

Clarke University | 2018

THEATRE ON TOUR

by Kyle Majerus '18

E

ager voices and shuffling feet filled Terence Donaghoe Hall as audience members entered the theater to see “The Bully Show!”, a 60-minute, multi-performance drama production that explored the issue of bullying. The production, which ran from March 8 - 11, asked its young audience members to reconsider the assumptions they have about bullies and victims, realize the consequences of bullying, and encourage further discussion on the issue.

“We chose to do this particular production because of the feedback we received during the conclusion of our last Theatre on Tour production,” stated Joe Klinebriel, Professor of Drama and the production’s director. “Teachers were very interested in having students explore theatrical material that would encourage empathy, character development, identifying bullying behavior, and discussing strategies to use in these types of situations. We are very excited to have found this play which effectively allows younger students to engage with this very important topic.”

Clarke University | 2018

9

Even though the show concentrated on a somber and sensitive topic, the Drama and Musical Theatre Department countered the seriousness by interacting with the audience in an entertaining, gameshow-style way. The production’s unique design allowed the cast – which consisted of a gameshow host, his co-workers, and two contestants – to get the audience involved and allow them to speak up on the topic of bullying.

Throughout the show, the gameshow host, Johnny, introduced various scenarios that challenged the contestants and the audience to identify bullying behaviors and provide useful strategies to use in these situations. However, the gameshow took an interesting turn when Johnny shifted the objective from recognizing and preventing bullying to convincing contestants to be the bully. In addition, Johnny revealed himself as a bully through his unfriendly actions towards his coworkers and his attempts to justify his actions. This dramatic turn of events required the audience to come up with new and unique methods to identify and stop bullying.

Alex Dean, a Clarke senior drama major who played Johnny, provided his insight on his role and the production. “From my perspective, playing Johnny provided a fun and amusing way to challenge audience members to speak up against bullying, whether it be the typical means of bullying as seen in the game questions, or in an unexpected way, as Johnny treats his co-workers. It also shows that adults can also be bullies, and that anyone can be a victim or a bully.

This play is a fun and informative discussion about bullying, and I was honored to be a part of the production.”

This play is a fun and informative discussion about bullying, and I was honored to be a part of the production. − ALEX DEAN '18

In addition to performing at Clarke University for four days, the crew took to the road in March through May to perform locally at 10 Dubuque and area public and parochial elementary schools.

The intent of touring with the show was to spread the idea of compassion, anti-bullying, and character building, as well as promote appreciation for the arts to younger audiences. As a way to evaluate the success of the production and the audiences' takeaways, the Drama and Musical Theatre Department provided a survey following each performance, which asked students to rate their experience and provide comments on what they learned about empathy and anti-bullying.

Darius Autry, a Clarke junior drama major, and cast member, highlighted the goals of this production and the expected outcome. “‘The Bully Show!’ teaches young kids about the effects of bullying by shining light on various types of bullies. A bully can emerge in any size, shape, or sound. After the audience members see the show, they will have a better understanding of what a bully is, and how to identify and cope with a bully. This show is extremely important for the younger generation, but people of all ages can learn from this production.”

The production was made possible, in large part, to a grant from the Dubuque Rotary Club, a humanitarian and philanthropic group serving the local area and community. The Drama and Musical Theatre Department is grateful to the Dubuque Rotary Club for its support of the production and their assistance with spreading the word against bullying. 

10

Clarke University | 2018

Interested in helping out with your Homecoming class reunion? Call us at (563)588-6553 or email jodi.hooks@clarke.edu. To view a full list of events and to RSVP, visit clarke.edu/homecoming.

CL ARKE UN IVERS IT Y HO MECOMIN G

OCTOBER 12-14 2018

YOUR GIFT. YOUR WAY. IT TAKES HEART. IT TAKES VISION. IT TAKES ACTION. IT TAKES YOU. Almost every student at Clarke receives some sort 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

SAVE THE DATE

W H A T ' S

T R E N D I N G O N

S O C I A L

M E D I A

C L A R K E ' S

I plan on getting my master’s in social work and becoming a licensed clinical social worker. I want to go into a field where I can help people and make a difference. I want to make people’s lives better than the experience I had growing up. I want to help them from my own challenges and experiences.

— Eric Jones '19 Congrats to Clarke alumnus Javier Lopez '08 for being recognized as an 'Everyday Hero' for his work introducing hockey to a non-traditional hockey community. Awesome job!

The Clarke Baseball and Softball teams tried to finally answer the age-old question: which sport is better? Watch as baseball/softball hitters square off against pitchers from the opposing sport. They are both great in our humble opinion! #clarkeuniversity #gopride

clarke.edu/baseballvssoftball

I was recognized as a 'Person who Makes a Difference' for my volunteer work with St. Stephen's Food Bank in Dubuque. So many people we serve are simply underemployed. They are trying hard and working hard and have jobs, but their jobs just don’t pay the greatest.

For us to serve them is a wonderful and humbling experience.

— Mary Pat (Lynch) Ament '71

12

Clarke University | 2018

Follow Us!

WAY BACK WHEN 75

“AMERICA, HERE WE COME”

50

SLAPSTICK ERA REVIVES IN 30s FESTIVAL

25

UNION RECEIVES MAKEOVER

10

DUNN RETURNS WITH IRISH MEMORIES

YEARS AGO

YEARS AGO

YEARS AGO

YEARS AGO

“America, here we come!” cry the seniors, as they step confident and strong from the security and peace of the Clarke of a Century into the doubt and chaos of a world of total war. Young, competent, and unafraid, they face an age of uncertainties. They are a vital part of the young America that is fighting and accepting a rationed life today, to insure a peaceful, unfettered life tomorrow.

Humphrey Bogart, Ginger Rogers, Dick Powell, and the unstoppable Marx Brothers will hit the screen of ALH March 17 and 18 when the American Fiction classes, under the direction of Sister M. Sheila Houle and Sister M. Yolanda Tamburrino, present a “30s Film Festival.” Three categories of typically 1930 movies-musicals, comedy, and gangster have been chosen for their aptness in providing what Sister M. Sheila calls “a feel for the era which is almost ancient history to today’s college students.”

Many may have noticed the change in the Union from dark burgundy and black to a more colorful scheme. The paper on the walls is brighter and the Quiet Lounge received a face-lift as well. It all started last semester, according to Doyle Woods, when Dean James Petty met with a forum of students to discuss the changes.

Petty was interested in getting an area on campus that attracted faculty and staff as well as students.

When Catherine Dunn BVM, retired in 2006 from her position as president of Clarke College, she knew it was time for a break.

After 22 years of putting in long hours, day in and day out, Sr. Catherine decided to take a much-needed vacation to Ireland. For most of the 18 months she was there she found peaceful ways to pass the time through reading, meditation, baking, and sleeping without the blare of an alarm clock.

Clarke University | 2018

13

OUTCOMES

Graduates of Clarke’s Pre-Law Program are Making a Difference.

During the 2016/2017 academic year, Clarke University saw the highest annual total pre-law students in the university's history.

Clarke’s pre-law program began over 25 years ago and has expanded greatly over the past 10 years.

14

Clarke University | 2018

KYLEE D. MILLER '12 Communication and Philosophy

KYLEE joined Tuite Law – a long-standing and respected firm in Rockford, Illinois – in 2017. She is currently an associate attorney with a three-part practice: social security disability, workers’ compensation, and personal injury.

Kylee said, “It can be risky and intimidating to argue against a 20-year veteran defense attorney, or to tell a judge I think she’s wrong. Clarke prepared me for these big leaps I sometimes need to take in order to zealously advocate for my clients.”

After graduating from Clarke, Kylee attended the Valparaiso University School of Law on a full tuition scholarship. This was awarded to her because of her high LSAT score and undergraduate GPA. While in law school, she participated in a number of organizations, including moot court. She won the 25th Annual Luther M. Swygert Memorial Moot Court Competition as best Oralist and was a member of the Best Team. She graduated in 2015 and passed the Illinois Bar on the first attempt.

She said, “Fun fact: I was sworn in by Illinois Supreme Court Justice Robert R. Thomas, who played for the Chicago Bears and Notre Dame before becoming a lawyer and judge.”

Prior to Tuite Law, Kylee worked for Jensen Law Office, LLC, as an associate attorney in Rockford. Her primary focus at the firm was medical malpractice defense, and employment law issues. She worked primarily for people who had been discriminated against and fired by their employer for their gender, race, age, or sexual orientation.

Kylee shared, “I’ve learned a lot about advocacy, much of which has been beyond the courtroom. It has prompted me to advocate for a wide array of topics including correction of medical disparities, uniformity for medical/legal acronyms, and even Clarke’s athletic nickname change. I’m heavily involved in the Rockford community, as well. I am part of the Winnebago County Bar Association as Treasurer of the Young Lawyers Division and am also Vice Chair of the Workers’ Compensation Section. I play and occasionally coach volleyball at the University of Wisconsin’s Sports Factory. And, like a good lawyer, I golf whenever I can.”

Kylee said her Clarke educational experience was very well-rounded.

She speaks highly of her professors and advisors who allowed her to take risks, such as allowing her to take a 23 credit hour course load, apply to an NYC internship, and edit the newspaper as a sophomore.

Of course, she also learned important practical skills such as time management, academic research, and proofreading. But, she found being prepared to take risks is something very hard to learn and even harder to teach.

When asked about individuals who had an impact on her at Clarke, Kylee said, “Narrowing this list is an insurmountable challenge.

I had so many significant people who helped and shaped me along the way. I won’t have room to adequately discuss them all so I’ll just say Norm Freund is a real-life Socrates. Like Socrates, Norm encouraged questions and a love of learning. I walked into law school so wellprepared because of a curriculum he helped develop. I knew what a syllogism was, how to dismantle or build an argument, and how to slog through dense reading material. And when it came time to deal with the Socratic Method, I could just picture Norm in his toga on the back steps of the Atrium, instead of the professor standing in front of me.”

Norm Freund is a real-life Socrates.

NORM ENCOURAGED QUESTIONS AND A LOVE OF LEARNING. - Kylee D. Miller '12

Clarke University | 2017

5

his or her day-to-day life, and Klapatauskas was an excellent teacher.

BRIDGET GOLDBECK ‘09 Philosophy

BRIDGET has been working at Hughes & Trannel, P.C., for nearly four years. She found the job posting through the career development office at Drake Law School, where she earned her law degree. She was offered a job as an associate attorney, and in March 2016, she was made partner.

Bridget said, “My first year at Clarke I took a course about the BVMs and the history of Clarke (College) University. I learned about the BVM core values: freedom, education, charity, and justice. I believe this unique experience and education helped me tremendously in my career today. I understand what it means to fight for those who have practically nothing. I know the lessons I learned in studying the BVMs and their values helped me realize how important it is to treat all of my clients with respect and dignity.”

When Bridget was a junior at Clarke, she had an internship at Reynolds & Kenline with Attorney Todd Klapatauskas. At that time, Klapatauskas was doing mostly criminal defense and personal injury work. She had the opportunity to interview witnesses, review deposition transcripts, review discovery documents, and attend court hearings.

She even had the chance to observe a trial in Dubuque County from start to finish. She learned about what an attorney actually does in

I understand what it means

TO FIGHT FOR THOSE WHO HAVE PRACTICALLY NOTHING. - Bridget Goldbeck '09

Prior to the internship, she was on the fence about attending law school, but after working with Klapatauskas, her mind was made up.

She shared, “Philosophy helped me come up with solutions to many different kinds of problems. The skills I learned at Clarke have definitely helped me think outside the box when it comes to coming up with solutions to complex legal problems.”

TJ KIRSCH ‘09 Philosophy and History

After graduating from Clarke, TJ continued his education, graduating from St. Louis University School of Law in 2013. He practiced law in St. Louis for approximately one year before being hired by the Missouri State Public Defender Division as a trial attorney. He worked at two offices of MSPD over three years. In 2017, TJ and a colleague started their own law firm, Sartorius Kirsch, LLC, in Jefferson City, Missouri.

TJ said, “My studies at Clarke in history prepared me to analyze historical context. This helped a great deal in the law when the significance of judicial decisions is informed by its historical context, and when the rules of law we apply are in place precisely because of certain historical contexts.”

He continued, “Clarke’s Philosophy Department did wonders to prepare me for the practice of law. One often hears people claim they would make a good attorney because they like to argue; while that is not really how the law works, the art of argument and analysis I learned from Professors Riley, Anderson, and Freund helped me immensely.

I am sure they will be happy to learn that I recently argued that the judge should not agree with my learned adversary because opposing counsel had used a syllogism with no middle term; my client prevailed on that issue.”

TJ said he tells everyone who will listen to study philosophy at Clarke.

“It does not matter if you do not plan to get your Ph.D. in philosophy.

Make it your second major; it will apply to whatever you do in life.

Not only will philosophy teach you value, but also it helps you appreciate living and thinking well.”

What is most special about our graduates

IS HOW EACH OF THEM CARRIES FORWARD THE UNIVERSITY’S CORE VALUES IN THE WORK THEY DO. - Norm Freund, Professor of Philosophy and Pre-Law Advisor

MATTHEW BOLEYN ‘08

MICHAEL DALY ‘08

Music and Business Administration

Philosophy

Having played the flute since fourth grade, MATT attended Clarke University with the intention that he would complete a major in music and a major in business administration, and then pursue a career in arts administration upon graduation. During his time at Clarke, he completed internships with the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra and IMG Artists, LLC, in New York City. Through these internships, he developed an interest in entertainment law.

He shared, “Music is a very demanding major. Aside from participation in various music ensembles and the internships I held, little time was left for other things. However, the rigors of pursuing a major in music helped me in preparing for my law school education and subsequent career in law.”

After graduating from Clarke, Matt attended the University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Wanting to return to his hometown of Dubuque, he became a partner with the law firm of Reynolds & Kenline, LLP, was appointed as a judicial magistrate judge in May of 2017, and has now taught Business Law on two separate occasions at Clarke.

Matt said, “The support of Clarke’s faculty and staff was an integral part in leading me to where I am today. The one-on-one support and attention I received really pushed me to explore any and all options available to me and to keep an open mind when making career altering decisions. I never felt that I was in the process of self-definition alone. Also, the connections that faculty and staff had with other organizations and alumni opened many doors for me that otherwise would not have been available at other schools.”

After graduating from Clarke, MICHAEL went to Creighton University School of Law where he earned his JD degree and clerked at Lamson, Dugan, and Murray, LLP. Upon graduation, he moved to Washington, D.C., and completed an LLM degree in taxation at Georgetown University Law Center.

The following fall he started working at Shearman & Sterling, LLP, as an associate specializing in tax law and has been with Shearman ever since. In his practice, he specializes in advising clients on the tax consequences of securitizations and financial products. He has also had the opportunity to co-teach a class in tax policy at Georgetown University.

When asked about how Clarke prepared him for his current career, Matt reflected, “The critical thinking skills that I learned through the philosophy program gave me the tools I needed to be successful, both in the academics of law school and in practice. For instance, the course I took at Clarke in symbolic logic has helped me to identify the structure of arguments I encounter and assess the soundness of such arguments. Those skills still serve me in my practice today.”

He went on to say that he didn’t realize it at the time, but ultimately it was the intense and rigorous process of writing his capstone paper that pushed him to be thorough and disciplined in his analysis. He said, “With the writing skills I gained at Clarke, I was able to join the Creighton Law Review and eventually serve as the Executive Editor.

Today, my writing is the work product I deliver to clients.

The commitment to quality writing and analysis instilled in me at Clarke serves me today as I strive to deliver the best possible legal writing and analysis to my clients.” 

CLARKE PRIDE FOOTBALL 2018

NATIONAL SIGNING DAY FOOTBALL HISTORY WAS MADE Wednesday, Feb. 7, at Clarke University. Clarke Head Football Coach Miguel Regalado announced the Pride's inaugural recruiting class on National Signing Day. The 2018 signing class consisted of 33 athletes from across the country and continues to grow.

"We had three goals in mind with this historic class," said Regalado. "Most importantly, create a solid foundation to build upon. Secondly, fill it with quality student-athletes who are serious about the classroom and getting a degree. Finally, recruit as many good football players as we can find without worrying about what positions they play.

"I'm proud to say that we've accomplished all of those goals with this group. There are still many offers out to young men who are still making their decisions, but we're proud to say the current first football class in Clarke University history represents 12 different states and we're looking forward to introducing them to the Dubuque community and watching them compete in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the field in 2018. I'd like to thank the Clarke University academic faculty, admissions, and financial aid for all of their help during the recruiting process. Go Pride!"

Clarke will begin intercollegiate competition in the fall of 2019. ď Ž

ONE OF OUR GOALS WHEN RECRUITING THIS INAUGURAL CLASS WAS TO CREATE A SOLID FOUNDATION TO BUILD UPON. 18

Clarke University | 2018

- MIGUEL REGALADO, HEAD FOOTBALL COACH

ALABAMA — 1 CALIFORNIA — 3 FLORIDA — 2 GEORGIA — 3 ILLINOIS — 7 IOWA — 8 KANSAS — 1 MARYLAND — 1 OHIO — 1 TEXAS — 8 WEST VIRGINIA — 1 WISCONSIN — 4

VIDEO: COACH REGALADO TALKS CLARKE FOOTBALL! clarke.edu/footballvideo

ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS

Nomination deadline is May 15. clarke.edu/athletics/halloffame

Clarke University is now accepting nominations for its Athletics Hall of Fame.

The purpose of the Hall of Fame is to recognize student-athletes, coaches, and contributors who have demonstrated extraordinary performances and achievements in athletics. Nomination categories include student-athlete, varsity coach, and contributor. Hall of Fame inductions will occur in October.

Spring Semester E V E N T

by Kyle Majerus '18

STEP AFRIKA!

MUSICAL MENUS

Edward J. and Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke Event

The area’s best musical revue and a Clarke tradition returned to campus this spring. Musical Menus was presented on Friday, March 2, and Saturday, March 3, in the R.C. and Celeste Wahlert Atrium.

Step Afrika! is the first professional dance company devoted to stepping and one of the top 10 African American Dance Companies in the U.S. The group performed in Jansen Music Hall on February 12. The performers shared their culture with those in attendance by stepping to traditional African music. This event was part of the Edward J. and Cathy Gallagher Arts at Clarke Series.

Assistant Professor of Music and Arts at Clarke committee member Sharon Jensen said, “The audience was thoroughly engaged and enthusiastic. The dancers maintained an extremely high level of energy, excitement, and virtuosic technique. I felt that they established a wonderful rapport with the audience and they also gave them multiple opportunities to participate on stage with the dancers. It was probably one of the best attended events sponsored by Arts at Clarke.”

Prior to the main event, Step Afrika! hosted a free workshop during which attendees were not only educated on the history of stepping and the origins of this traditional African dance, but they were also taught the basics of stepping.

20

RECAP

Clarke University | 2018

This annual Clarke tradition featured a gourmet five-course meal and musical performances by students and faculty. The evening included solo and small ensemble performances, as well as performances by the Clarke Collegiate Singers, the Clarke Cantabile Singers, and Clarke Instrumental Ensembles.

Assistant Professor of Music CJ Greer said, “Musical Menus is such a great event for Clarke’s students because they get to select music they may not normally have the opportunity to work on – ranging from broadway to pop, rock, folk music, and even their own compositions.

It is a generous environment for new performers to get their proverbial ‘feet wet’ on the stage.”

She continued, “This year we were particularly excited that donations from the event will support students as the Music Department travels to Ireland in the summer of 2019 to perform and connect with our founding BVM roots, and as a wrap-up to Clarke’s 175th anniversary year.”

“Singapore has a unique opportunity to become a leader in research on human aging, particularly its clinical application," stated Kennedy. “It is already possible to extend lifespan and health span in animal models and the time has come for human testing. With its aging population and, importantly, its progressive approach to develop the best and most efficient healthcare system, Singapore is poised to take the lead in human aging studies. My goal is to work with the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine to help Singaporeans extend their lifespan – to live healthily for as long as possible.”

LOUIS CHAREST: A Compassionate Response to the Global Migration and Refugee Crisis Schemmel Endowed Lecture in Theology Louis Charest of Catholic Relief Services gave the Schemmel Endowed Lecture on March 15 in Jansen Music Hall on Clarke University’s campus.

Charest described how we are living through the worst refugee crisis in human history. Poverty, war, persecution, and climate change have forced millions of individuals to flee for their lives. Charest talked about what is currently happening, why it is happening, and what is a just response. He also met with students, faculty, and staff at both Clarke and Loras College prior to the evening feature.

Charest stated, “I have 15 years of experience working to engage the U.S. community on international justice issues for Non-Governmental Organizations and higher education institutions. I have visited Central America, South America, Africa, Asia, and 20 countries in the Middle East to better understand and address global poverty.”

BRIAN K. KENNEDY: The Age of Aging Mary Murphy, BVM, Endowed Lecture in Biology Brian K. Kennedy, Ph.D. was the keynote speaker for the Mary Murphy, BVM, Endowed Lecture in Biology on March 20 in Jansen Music Hall. His lecture was titled “The Age of Aging: Can We Intervene?” and addressed the translation of research discoveries into new ways of delaying, detecting, preventing, and treating human aging and associated diseases.

Dr. Kennedy is the Director of the Centre for Healthy Aging at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at National University Singapore (NUS), as well as a Distinguished Professor in Biochemistry and Physiology at the institution. He is internationally recognized for his research in the basic biology of aging.

B’ANN DITTMAR: Dream Job, Part II Mackin-Mailander Faculty Lecture B’Ann Dittmar, Instructor of Business Management at Clarke University, spoke at the MackinMailander Faculty Lecture on March 21 in Jansen Music Hall. She inspired listeners by discussing her career path from a bank teller to a bank president to a college instructor at Clarke University.

Dittmar shared, "My story is about declaring what I wanted to do in life early on, but taking about 20 years to actually do it! When I was a senior in high school, I declared to a good friend that I wanted to be a college professor one day," stated Dittmar.

She went on to mention, "Prior to becoming the president of the bank, I had an opportunity to serve in a bank trainer role, and I also taught college classes as an adjunct during that time. It was then that I discovered my love of teaching and my passion for it. I knew that teaching was something I would love to do, every day.” 

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

A MESSAGE FROM ALUMNI RELATIONS

Dear Alumni and Friends, It’s hard to believe it was last year at this time that I was introducing myself as your new Associate Director of Alumni Relations. The past year has brought so many learning opportunities as well as the chance to meet so many of you. And, I’ve had a lot of fun doing all of it!

Already in 2018 we have visited Scottsdale and Tucson, AZ; Sarasota, Ft. Myers, Naples, and Orlando, FL; as well as hosted local Dubuque events including the annual hockey night with the Dubuque Fighting Saints, a Your Best U! lecture focused on living in gratitude, and a social hour at the newly opened 7 Hills Brewing Company.

And once again, we traveled to Mesa, AZ to cheer on the Chicago Cubs at two of their spring training games.

We will continue to host events throughout the country as the year progresses and I hope you will join us when we come to your area. Please also mark your calendar for Homecoming Weekend, October 12-14. In addition to a weekend full of Homecoming festivities, we look forward to celebrating 175 years of Clarke history with you.

Finally, it is important to keep us updated with your current contact information to ensure you receive all of our alumni communications and event invitations. We also want to hear about your personal and professional accomplishments.

Our Clarke Class Notes are now available online (clarke.edu/classnotes). I encourage you to submit an update using the form located on the Alumni web page.

I look forward to visiting with many of you in the months ahead. I also welcome any feedback or ideas you may have to help us enhance our amazing Clarke community.

Sincerely,

Jodi Hooks '99 Associate Director of Alumni Relations

22

Clarke University | 2018

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Creating leaders who will shape the world.

• MASTER OF ARTS IN EDUCATION • MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION • MASTER OF ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP • MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK • DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE • DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT clarke.edu/graduate 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.

h

SNAPSH TS FROM ALUMNI EVENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

YOU CAN NOW VIEW CLASS NOTES ONLINE! clarke.edu/classnotes SCOTTSDALE PRESIDENTIAL BRUNCH L-R: Dan Chapman, Mary Chapman ’04, Clarke Head Football Coach Miguel Regalado, Helen Black ’07, Dick Black

YOUR LIFE IS FULL OF AMAZING HAPPENINGS – AND WE LOVE TO SHARE IN YOUR JOY. SHARE YOUR UPDATES WITH US! alumnirelations@clarke.edu or online at clarke.edu/submitclassnote (Don’t forget to send pictures!)

SARASOTA AREA CHEERS EVENT L-R: Clarke Trustee John Stavnes, Geoff Kent, Mary Pat Pitzen ’72, Clarke Trustee Dennis Powers, Carol Powers ’01

YOUR BEST U Cultivating a Grateful Heart for Peace, Love, & Happiness with Julia Theisen, Co-Owner of Body & Soul

24

Clarke University | 2018

Then and Now Social media has revolutionized the way students consume the news. Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook. These are just a few of the social media outlets students are using to read their "news."

Clarke University | 2018

25

1550 Clarke Drive Dubuque, Iowa 52001-3198

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

4/11

CHEERS MILWAUKEE, WI

5/10

CHEERS CHICAGO, IL

4/13

CLARKE-LORAS RECEPTION DURHAM, NC

5/17

CHEERS MADISON, WI

4/21

RECEPTION NEW YORK, NY

6/14

CHEERS NORTH LIBERTY, IA

5/01

CHEERS DAVENPORT, IA

7/01

PRESIDENTIAL BRUNCH WASHINGTON, DC

5/02

CHEERS DECORAH, IA

10/12

CLARKE HOMECOMING DUBUQUE, IA