Grant Enhances Clarke Scholars Program

Thanks to a generous grant from the James B. and Melita A. McDonough Foundation, Clarke University is creating a welcoming new home for its Scholars Program.  

The Scholars Program invites select students of high academic standing to participate in unique leadership, research, and social activities at Clarke, giving them a deeper connection to their college experience and peers. The McDonough Foundation’s investment will allow for renovations on the first floor of Mary Benedict Hall to create an expanded space for the growing program. 

“We are deeply grateful to the McDonough Foundation for investing in the success of our students and helping create a space where future leaders can learn, grow, and thrive,” said Courtney Leonard, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. 

“The Scholars Program is essential for this group of excellent students,” added Scholars Program Advisor and Associate Professor of Business Administration Loren Rice. “It gives them a common purpose, a unique group of friends to help get through the rough times and an outlet to celebrate the major accomplishments during their academic career.” 

With the renovated space, the Scholars program aims to offer more collaborative learning, peer mentoring opportunities, leadership development, and social activities. The dedicated space also allows workroom for advanced students completing their Scholars Seminar, a project-based Scholars-only course that is a deep dive into the subject matter of their choosing. In the past, seminar projects have included Chemistry majors synthesizing antibiotics in the lab, Studio Art majors creating elaborate 20-piece ceramic sets, and more. 

To learn more about the Scholars program and the $1,000 renewable scholarship that comes with it, schedule at visit at clarke.edu/visit.