Clarke Names Zimmerman as 20th President

The Clarke University Board of Trustees and the full Clarke community is proud to announce that Yvonne C. Zimmerman, Ph.D. has been appointed the University’s 20th President, effective immediately. 

Zimmerman has served as the Acting President at Clarke University since October 2025, following the resignation of Dr. Fletcher Lamkin. Prior to that, she had served as the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. She has been with Clarke since August 2023.  

“As Acting President, Yvonne has led the University with a clear and determined focus on the future,” said Board of Trustees Chair Carolyn Haupert. “The Board has been continually impressed with her ability to think critically and make difficult decisions while acting with compassion and care. She has the Board’s full support as she moves forward in the role.” 

Zimmerman holds a BA from Goshen College; a Master of Theological Studies from Candler School of Theology, Emory University; and a Ph.D. in Religious and Theological Studies from the Iliff School of Theology and University of Denver. Prior to serving at Clarke, she was a Professor of Christian Ethics at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio for fifteen years, where she also served as Associate Academic Dean. Zimmerman’s primary area of academic expertise is the movement to end human trafficking. Her deep personal and professional ties to social justice and Christian teachings align well with Clarke’s Catholic heritage and vision for the future. 

“We affirm Yvonne’s leadership and recognize her as a strong voice for Clarke University in the Dubuque community,” said LaDonna Manternach, President of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Clarke Board of Trustee member.  “In this challenging time for higher education, we are confident she will carry forward Clarke’s commitment to quality education while guiding the institution through transition, grounded in the BVM values of freedom, education, charity, and justice.” 

With Zimmerman’s appointment to President, the University will conduct a national search for the Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. 

More information on Clarke University leadership is available at https://clarke.edu/about-clarke/university-leadership/.