Senior Spotlight: Royce C.

By Jazz Daughtrey ’27, Marketing Intern

From a small-town upbringing in Belleville, Wisconsin, Royce has spent the past six years at Clarke University building toward a clear and meaningful goal: a career in physical therapy. After completing his undergraduate degree in Biology, he is now graduating with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy as a milestone he describes as his proudest accomplishment.  

Royce’s journey into physical therapy began after a serious high school basketball injury that required extensive rehab and ultimately inspired his career path. At Clarke, he played three years on the men’s Basketball team while managing the demands of the 3+3 program, stepping away during graduate school to focus on academics. He credits the physical therapy program’s close-knit environment and long study hours for shaping his experience, along with mentorship from Professors Michelle Slover and Brad Kruse, who influenced his academic and professional growth.  

Outside the classroom, Royce stayed active in the Dubuque community through volunteer work and service. After graduation, he plans to remain in the area and pursue a career in outpatient physical therapy, helping patients return to the activities they enjoy. Royce hopes to be remembered as someone who was always willing to support others and encourages future students to stay open-minded and fully committed to their goals.