Alumni Spotlight: Antonia (Naab) Frost ’20, ’21MSW
Clarke: Can you share a little of where life has taken you since your time at Clarke?
Antonia: On a personal note, I’m incredibly proud of building a beautiful life here in Dubuque with my husband, Aaron, and raising our seven-year-old son. Recently we purchased our first home together, which has been quite an adventure.
Professionally, I am currently working as a Therapist at Crossroads Counseling Center LLC. Transitioning from macro-level social work in the non-profit sector to clinical private practice as a therapist was a significant shift that required a lot of growth. Navigating the complexities of mental health care, especially in recent years, demands high resilience. I’ve overcome these challenges by prioritizing intentional self-care, leaning on a strong professional network, and remembering the core reason I entered this field: to meet people where they are and offer genuine support.
Clarke: As you said, the field of social work is rewarding but often complex. How do you feel your time at Clarke helped prepare you to navigate those complexities?
Antonia: As a ‘triple alumna’ with degrees in psychology and social work, Clarke didn’t just teach me theory, it taught me how to look at people through a holistic, empathetic lens. The rigorous coursework and hands-on preparation gave me the clinical confidence I use daily in private practice, while the supportive community instilled a sense of resilience that helps me navigate both professional and personal challenges.
More than that, I would say the Core Values are the literal blueprint of my daily life. As a therapist, I practice charity and justice by advocating for mental health accessibility and walking alongside individuals through their hardest moments.
Clarke: You also recently joined the Clarke Alumni Association Board. Why did you want to get involved?
Antonia: Staying connected is incredibly important to me because Clarke poured so much into my foundation. I want to ensure current and future students have that same rich, supportive experience.
I often find myself reminiscing when I drive past campus; walking through those halls and attending classes truly shaped who I am today. My favorite memory by far is meeting one of my best friends at Clarke. From studying day and night to constantly pushing each other to chase our dreams, it is incredible to look at where we both are now and know it started right here on campus.
Moving forward, my goals are to continue expanding my therapeutic practice, and serve meaningfully on the Clarke Alumni Board. My biggest motivation is my son. I want to model for him what hard work, dedication to your community, and a compassionate heart look like in action.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, Antonia! Do you know a member of the Clarke alumni community we should highlight? Submit your nominations for a future Alumni Spotlight by emailing alumnirelations@clarke.edu.
Interview edited for length and clarity.