Clarke Receives $1 Million Estate Gift to Support Student Success

Through the generosity of the late Kathryn E. Whitlow, Clarke University has received a gift of $1 million to support the university’s endowment fund – a key component in providing ongoing financial support to students with financial need. The gift was a life-insurance bequest from Whitlow, who was a long-time trustee and trustee emerita of Clarke.  “Kathryn dearly loved Clarke and was always energized by the many ways Clarke impacts the lives of students,” said Clarke President Joanne M. Burrows, SC, Ph.D. “She wanted to ensure that this impact continues by making a gift that will live on while benefitting something she held dear – making a Clarke education available to a broader group of students.”  Whitlow, known at Clarke for her compassionate presence, was a strong contributor on the Board. Key among her work was the dedicated service she provided to the Board’s Student Life Committee and Development Committee.  “Kathryn was both gentle and insightful,” said Clarke President Emerita Catherine Dunn, BVM, Ph.D., who in her 22 years as president worked closely with Whitlow. “She was genuinely interested in students and so strongly believed in Clarke’s mission. She always represented the essence of Clarke.”  Whitlow was married to the late M.W. “Whit” Whitlow in 1944 and they raised three daughters: Terry, Julie and Nancy. In 1963, the family moved from Wichita, Kansas to Dubuque, where Kathryn lived until her death. She was preceded in death by Whit, who passed away in 1987.  In addition to her work on the Clarke board, Whitlow was a visible volunteer in the tri-state area. She was a member and chair of the Board of Directors at East Dubuque Savings Bank. She was also a volunteer at the Mercy Gift Shop, a member of Theresians and a member of the Catholic Mothers Club.  For more information, contact the Clarke University Marketing and Communication Office at (563)588-6318.