Clarke University Announces Organizational Rightsizing and Curricular Revision

Clarke University has a long-standing tradition of excellence that has endured for nearly two centuries, even in the face of national enrollment declines, rising costs, and ongoing financial pressures. Clarke has worked for years to address declining enrollment and rising costs; however, current financial realities require more significant action.

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.

As part of this process, we will realign our academic offerings to focus on programs with the highest enrollment and demand. At the end of the 2025–2026 academic year, 13 under-enrolled programs will be phased out. Faculty will teach the entire 2025-2026 academic year. Approximately 23 faculty positions and 12–14 staff positions may be eliminated through attrition, consolidation, or program closures.

Approximately 90 percent of current Clarke students will not have their current academic plan impacted by these changes. For students in impacted programs, faculty advisors will work individually to develop a transition plan.

“This is a difficult season, but not an impossible one,” said Acting President Yvonne Zimmerman. “With partnership, faith, and resilience we will navigate this transition and emerge stronger—renewed in purpose, united in mission, and ready to carry Clarke’s light into its next chapter.”

These changes also involve operational and budgetary realignments across the University to ensure continuity, efficiency, and long-term viability. As part of these efforts, Clarke will eliminate its long-term debt. This initiative has been made possible through a transformational gift from a Clarke alumna and her husband.

Throughout this process, Clarke remains deeply committed to:

• Our students, faculty, staff, and alumni – supporting all members of our community through this transition.
• Academic excellence and student success – maintaining high-quality programs and a close-knit, personalized learning environment.
• Our mission and BVM Core Values – preserving the University’s identity and legacy while adapting to today’s educational and financial realities.

We recognize this is an incredibly difficult moment for our community, and we are committed to open, transparent, and compassionate communication as this process continues. We are grateful for the trust, resilience, and engagement of all who contribute to Clarke’s ongoing success. Additional information and Frequently Asked Questions are available here.

Thank you for believing in Clarke and for standing with us as we move forward together with hope and purpose.