Clarke University Announces Leadership Succession in Institutional Advancement

Clarke University and Interim President Dr. Fletcher Lamkin are pleased to announce that Bill Biebuyck will transition to a new role as Vice President Emeritus for Institutional Advancement on July 1. In this capacity, Bill will continue to advance Clarke’s mission through philanthropy, building on his extensive contributions over the past 14 years. Courtney Leonard will succeed him as Vice President for Institutional Advancement.  

“This is an exciting new chapter for the Mackin Office of Institutional Advancement,” said Interim President Fletch Lamkin. “On behalf of the entire Clarke community I want to congratulate Bill and Courtney on their new roles. I fully expect to see the positive impact their guidance will have on Clarke University.” 

Bill has been a cornerstone of Clarke’s advancement efforts. Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed immense pride in the strong Institutional Advancement team that has been built, and the robust philanthropic support garnered from Clarke’s alumni and friends.   

“The connections I have forged with our supporters are memories I will cherish forever,” Bill said. “Clarke is a very special place, and I am incredibly appreciative to have spent a significant part of my career here. Sr. Catherine Dunn remains one of the greatest blessings in my life. She embodies everything good about Clarke, and her guidance, mentorship, and friendship have meant the world to me. I only wish our paths could have crossed earlier in life.”  

As Bill transitions to his Emeritus role, he is confident in the future of the Mackin Office of Institutional Advancement with Courtney in the lead. “Courtney is the right person at the right time for this role. We have worked closely together for the past 11 years, and she is deeply committed to Clarke’s mission and values. She has proven herself as an effective leader and experienced fundraiser,” Bill noted.   

Before coming to Clarke in 2013, Courtney spent nearly a decade in healthcare philanthropy. Since then, she has managed virtually all functions within the Institutional Advancement Office and has most recently led the preparation efforts for Clarke’s next comprehensive campaign. Her collaborative work with colleagues, alumni and friends, and the Dubuque non-profit community has provided a strong foundation for her new responsibilities.