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.

The 2027 Distinguished Alumni Awards are open and collecting nominations until April 16, 2027. Nominations are happily accepted from friends, spouses, and the greater community; the nominator does not have to be an alumnus. Only the nominated must be an alumna/us.

2026 Award Recipients

Rising Star Award –
Roane Hand ’21

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

Since graduating from Clarke in 2021, Roane Hand has built a nursing career grounded in leadership, patient advocacy, and service. As a registered nurse at UW Health University Hospital, she has mentored new nurses, supported transplant patients, and remained committed to the BVM Core Values through both her profession and volunteer work.

Humanitarian Service Award –
Jane Schissel ’83

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

Since graduating from Clarke in 1983, Jane Schissel has dedicated her life to education, service, and advocacy for underserved communities. From supporting students in Colorado schools to now leading Catholic Outreach in Grand Junction, where she helps provide housing, meals, and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness, Jane’s work has consistently reflected the BVM Core Values of education, charity, freedom, and justice.

Outstanding Achievement Award –
Jamie (Malikowski) Margolis ’01

Presented for outstanding professional achievement and success.

Since graduating from Clarke in 2001, Jamie Margolis has built a career focused on science, leadership, and life-saving innovation. As Senior Vice President of Operations at NMDP, formerly Be The Match, she leads teams delivering blood stem cell therapies for patients battling blood cancers and disorders while continuing to live out Clarke’s values through service, mentorship, and advocacy.

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.