Clarke University

Step into the inspiring legacy of Clarke University, an institution that began as St. Mary's Female Academy in 1843, a visionary creation by Irish emigrant Mother Mary Frances Clarke. As one of the very first schools for women west of the Mississippi River, Clarke has a rich history of breaking barriers and fostering intellectual growth, deeply rooted in its commitment to a progressive liberal arts education.

Over the decades, this pioneering academy evolved, moving to its present Dubuque location in 1881 and becoming Mount St. Joseph Academy and College. By 1901, it fully embraced its identity as a liberal arts school, awarding its first bachelor's degree just three years later. Chartered by the state of Iowa in 1910 and accredited by 1918, the institution solidified its academic standing. In 1928, it proudly became Clarke College, honoring its founder's vision to keep education progressive and encourage students to think critically.

Clarke University's spirit of resilience is perhaps best captured by the rallying cry "Clarke Lives!" following a devastating fire in 1984. From the ashes, a renewed campus emerged by 1986, featuring a new library, chapel, and the iconic, glass-enclosed Wahlert Atrium, which now stands as a central symbol of the university's enduring strength and community spirit. This transformation culminated in 2010 when the college was officially renamed Clarke University, reflecting its comprehensive educational offerings and continued commitment to preparing students for a dynamic future.