Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award

The Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award was established by the late honorable Frank A. O’Connor of Dubuque, Iowa, in memory of his wife. In 1991, the University in cooperation with the O’Connor family renamed the award the Francis J. O’Connor Memorial Award to honor the late Francis J. O’Connor, son of Frank and Mary Agnes O’Connor, and longtime Clarke trustee.

It is awarded by vote of the Faculty and the Senior Class to the senior who is most outstanding in scholarship, cooperation, generosity in service, leadership, and loyalty to Clarke.

2026 Francis J. O’Connor Recipient

Marcela Fajardo

Marcela was a leader in the classroom, on the field, and in her community.  Some of her activities included:  

• Member of the Women’s Soccer Team and Clarke Association of Student Athletes Representative
• Served as a Clarke Student Association Representative, Peer Mentor, and Hispanic Student Union participant 
• Worked in the Admissions and Institutional Advancement Offices, creating connections with Clarkies of all generations

 After graduation, she will begin her career in business where she hopes to use her experiences and skills to help others, build strong relationships and make a lasting impact.

Previous Recipients

Kainoa Gerard, 2025

Isabella Peterson, 2024

Giana Michels, 2023

Anthony Gonzalez, 2022

Rashaud Colbert, 2021

Sydney Eustice, 2020

Caroline Herrig, 2019

Kyle Majerus, 2018

Natascha Myers, 2017

Allison Smith, 2016

Adam O’Dell, 2015

Brittany Gosse, 2014

Luke Flynn, 2013

Molly Ann Fitzgibbons, 2012

Alexander Kelsheimer, 2011

Colleen Dansart, 2010

*For a complete listing of recipient names you may contact Academic Affairs.