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.

2023 Francis J. O’Connor Recipient

Giana Michels

Giana Michels was a leader in the classroom, on the court, and in her community. She double majored in Biology and Pre-Medicine, completing extensive research on glaucoma. Some of her activities included:  

• Member of the National Championship Women’s Basketball Team
• Volunteered with Dance Marathon and Biology Club 
• Finalist for the national Emil S. Liston Award for academic and athletic achievement

After graduation, Giana is applying to medical school and hopes to one day provide care in the Dubuque community.

Previous Recipients

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.