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.

2025 Award Recipients

Rising Star Award –
Katherine (Philipp-Guerra) Alsip ’13

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

Katie has built a multi-faceted career rooted in service, leadership, and learning. Her path has taken her from working with individuals with disabilities in Dubuque to leading leadership development programs and starting multiple businesses in Kansas City.

Humanitarian Service Award –
Mary Kilian Pollard, BVM ’48 (posthumously) 

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

Sister Kilian Pollard arrived at Saint Augustine’s School in Memphis, TN and did groundbreaking work with the African American community there for 55 years. She opened doors, integrating African American children into systems often closed to them under the Jim Crow laws of the South. Her legacy is best described by a story. One day, Kilian got on a bus and sat in the back seat. The bus driver informed her that she needed to move to the front. Kilian asked, “And why is that?” The bus driver responded that the back seats were for Blacks only. Kilian said, “What makes you think I’m not Black?” The bus driver proceeded, and Kilian, always faithful to living the BVM core value of Justice, remained in her seat.

Outstanding Achievement Award –
Capt. Kristin Hodapp ’97 ’98M

Presented for outstanding professional achievement and success.

Captain Kristin Hodapp has led a distinguished Navy career in military healthcare, shaped by Clarke values and driven by service, leadership, and innovation.

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.

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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.