Highlights for Homecoming 2025

Clarke University Homecoming is October 17-19, 2025. While there is no shortage of fun things to do, we want to make sure these four can’t-miss events make your calendar! 

Friday, October 17

Mississippi River Cruise aboard The American Lady 

5:15 – 7 p.m.  

$20 / person 

Kick off Homecoming Weekend aboard The American Lady for a happy hour river cruise! 
Your ticket includes a 1.5 hour cruise along the mighty Mississippi with unlimited tap beer, soda, lemonade, iced tea, 2-for-1 margaritas and other drink specials. Wine and liquor are available for purchase.  The American Lady will also provide heavy appetizers, which is determined by the cruise line. Food served in the past has been chicken tenders, chicken wings, or sloppy joes. Clarke giveaways will also be available!
 

Saturday, October 18

Alumni Recognition Breakfast and Distinguished Alumni Awards 

9:30 – 11 a.m. 

$10 / person 

Join us in the Wahlert Atrium as we recognize and honor our 2025 Clarke Distinguished Alumni Award recipients. Seating arrangements will be made by decade to facilitate enjoyable conversations and reunions. 

2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients: 

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

Humanitarian Service Award – Mary Kilian Pollard, BVM ’48 

Outstanding Achievement Award – Kristin Hodapp ’97, ’98

Alumni & Friends Tent Party 

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. 

$10 / person 

Come show your Clarke pride and get fired up for the football game! Admission includes a variety of unlimited beer, seltzer, and soda, along with all of your favorite tailgate food items. Enjoy Clarke giveaways and catching up with fellow alumni and friends! Children are welcome to attend at no cost. Must be 21 with valid ID to consume alcohol. Food will be served from noon- 2p.m.

Opportunity to Give Back:  
CUpboard + Closet will be collecting donations during the Tent Party. This service provides groceries and lightly-used clothing to students in need. There are multiple ways to support and have a meaningful impact, such as food drop-offs, cash donations, or utilizing the CUpboard + Closet  Amazon Wishlist. 

Clarke Social 

6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 

$30 / person 

Celebrate Clarke with alumni and friends at what was formerly The Magnolia in Historic Millwork District. The event is hosted in partnership with 7 Hills and Clarke alumni Keith ’03 and Abigail (Peckham) Gutierrez  ’03, ’10M. Your admission includes drinks and food, along with a casual evening of connection, class reunions, Clarke spirit, and live music performed by:  

Kristina Marie Castañeda ’01 ’10M: 7–8 p.m.
The DZ Combo: 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Pianist and composer Danny Zanger ’23, trumpeter Benjamin Drury ’10, drummer Dan McNamara ’12, and bassist Jeremy Jones.  

Find the full list of events at clarke.edu/homecoming.