Frequently Asked Questions: Donors and University Friends
Q: Will Clarke continue to offer a quality experience?
A: Yes. Clarke’s close-knit community, small class environment, and access to caring faculty and staff will remain central to its educational experience. Several programs will still be represented in general education, such as philosophy, religious studies, and first-year writing. We are also committed to creating and supporting new co-curricular offerings in music and the arts and are exploring opportunities for achieving this commitment.
High-enrollment programs serving approximately 92% of students will continue.
Q: How does the recent change in presidential leadership impact these decisions?
A: During his tenure as Clarke University’s President, Dr. Fletcher Lamkin laid a strong foundation for implementing strategic initiatives aimed at securing a sustainable future for the institution and its students. Every action taken thus far has been guided by a shared commitment to advancing student success. Acting President Dr. Yvonne Zimmerman, together with the entire leadership team, remains dedicated to building on this momentum and ensuring Clarke is well-positioned for long-term success.
Q: How does this affect donors and their gifts?
A: Donors’ gifts continue to have a profound impact on supporting students and the University. All gifts made to Clarke now and in the future will always support the institution and its students. Ongoing donor support is critical as Clarke navigates these changes and pursues an alliance to ensure a long-term future.
Q: How can donors help?
A: Continued engagement and support help ensure Clarke provides high-quality academics, meaningful student experiences, and long-term sustainability. Donor partnership enables Clarke to strengthen resources, expand operational capacity, and pursue strategic initiatives. We have created the BVM Legacy and Innovation Fund for added support for operations and strategic initiatives.
Q: What is the BVM Legacy and Innovation Fund?
A: The Board of Trustees has created the BVM Legacy and Innovation Fund to embrace this period of transition with a goal of raising $10M in the next two years. Of that, more than $5M has already been secured. This fund will:
- Sustain operations
- Invest in programs
- Give Clarke the flexibility to navigate change wisely
This fund is the foundation that allows us to honor our past while preparing for the future.
Q: What other steps are being taken to improve Clarke’s current financial position?
A: Clarke will be eliminating its total long-term debt using a transformational $5 million gift recently received from a Clarke alumna and her husband.
Clarke is also actively exploring a potential alliance with other Catholic universities, which would strengthen resources, expand academic opportunities, and position Clarke for a sustainable long-term future.
Q: How is Clarke maintaining transparency?
A: Clarke is committed to open communication, transparency, and integrity in all relationships with donors. Updates will be shared regularly as the University works through program adjustments and potential alliance plans.
Q: Why should donors remain confident in Clarke?
A: Clarke has carefully reviewed enrollment and financial data and is taking deliberate, strategic steps to preserve its mission, identity, and Core Values through this curriculum revision and organizational rightsizing process. These actions are designed to safeguard the student experience, academic quality, and long-term sustainability of the University.