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Alumni Awards

Distinguished Alumni Awards

Distinguished. It is a term that represents the outstanding contributions of so many Clarke alumni in their work and community. Each year, the Clarke Alumni Association recognizes alumni for personal, professional and humanitarian achievements by bestowing Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Nominations for the 2023 Clarke University Distinguished Alumni Awards are currently being accepted. All nominations must be recieved by Friday, March 24 at 4:30pm CT in order to be considered by the Alumni Board. Nominations that are recieved after the March 24 deadline will be considered for the following year. Recipients will be announced in May 2023 and will be honored during the Alumni Recognition Breakfast at Homecoming (Saturday, September 30).

Please contact alumnirelations@clarke.edu with any questions.

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2022 Award Recipients

Rising Star Award – Chris Brewer ’13

Presented to alumni 35 years of age and younger who have made an impact in their career, community or contributions to Clarke. 

Chris Brewer is the President & CEO of River City Logistics, based out of Dubuque Iowa. After starting his own company in 2018, Chris has expanded his fleet to include more than 35 brokers and 15 semi-trucks that travel the country.

Humanitarian Service Award – Ruth Ann Gaines ’69

Presented for exceptional service to humanity through civic, faith-based or educational endeavors.

Ruth Ann Gaines has demonstrated the BVM core values throughout her career, both in her 51 years as an educator and in her continuing service as an Iowa State Legislator.

Outstanding Achievement Award – Jason Knockel ’96

Presented for outstanding professional achievement and success.

Since 2013, Jason Knockel has served as the CEO of Kunkel & Associates, Inc., a commercial Insurance Agency that allows clients and insurance companies to work together across a range of services including property & casualty, employee benefits, claims management and safety.

For a full listing of past winners, please click the link below.

Hall of Fame Nomination Form

Complete Form

Athletics Hall of Fame

The Clarke University Athletics Hall of Fame was formed to recognize student-athletes, coaches and contributors who have demonstrated extraordinary performances and achievements in athletics.

Student-Athlete Category

Nominees must have graduated from Clarke, participated as a varsity athlete for a minimum of two years, and have demonstrated outstanding athletic achievement. Student-athletes become eligible for induction beginning seven years after graduation.

Varsity Coach Category

Nominees must have a minimum of three years of varsity coaching experience at Clarke.

Contributor Category

Nominees must have contributed significantly and consistently to the University’s athletics program.

The nomination deadline is May 15. Nominations are accepted throughout the year; however, any nominations received after the May deadline will be included for consideration the following year.

The Hall of Fame induction takes place during Homecoming Weekend each year.

President’s Service Award

Presented occasionally and only by special request of the President, this award is given in grateful appreciation for outstanding service to Clarke University.